Good Friday morning Church Requel!
What a great privilege we all have this week - Brian Betts has heard the call from the Lord to become a pastor. We will witness his ordination service this coming Sunday morning.
I had the joy of meeting with Brian yesterday. There was no doubt or wavering in the conviction of his calling. The leadership team also concurs and believes that Brian has demonstrated an exemplary Christian life and shown himself to be a maturing leader in the service of Christ.
So what happens at an ordination service? We will call Brian forward. The congregation will read responsively their own affirmations. We will ask Brian to publicly answer 7 questions confirming his appointment. Then the congregation will come forward and lay hands on Brian and pray for God to strengthen and guide Brian in his next steps.
Some have asked if Brian will take over for me when I retire at the end of November as pastor of Church Requel? We don't know the answer to that question yet. Personally, I believe Brian will make an excellent pastor wherever God should call him. But we and Brian are taking this one step at a time. What we are confirming this Sunday morning is that Brian is called and that God has an appointment in mind for him. We all await to see the Holy Spirit's direction.
I am greatly looking forward to watching how God will move in Brian's life and in the life of Church Requel. Over the next several months I will be asking you to commit to praying and fasting over our next steps. Actually - you don't have to wait. I've been in the prayer and fasting mode all year.
Potluck Celebration - In true Church Requel fashion, we will celebrate Brian's ordination with a potluck meal after the morning worship service. The church will provide sliced ham as a main course along with drinks and all the paper plates, napkins and eating utensils. You all bring the side dishes and desserts. Potlucks are great! Thank you Brian for giving us a good excuse for another one!
Love you all much! Hope to see you Sunday morning! Pastor Mark
