Letter from Brad May 2008

“It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”  Ephesians 4:11-13

Dear River friends,

This month, we celebrate the conclusion of Jim Martin’s service as Pastor of Compassion Ministries.  He and his family have been a unique gift.  All of us have, in one way or another, been touched by Jim’s passionate life commitment to seek justice for the poor in the name of Jesus.  Because of the Martins, our church is a richer and better place.  And we are richer and better disciples.  Our sadness in their parting is exceeded only by our gratefulness to God who is forever pouring out gifts to His church so that His kingdom might advance, both in and through us.

In that spirit of gratitude, we bless Jim, Jenna, Clara, Charlotte and Aidan in their new station of life and ministry.  Moreover, we welcome with open hearts the good gifts God is providing for the equipping of our own community.  In this issue of The Current, you’ll enjoy an introduction to Mark Phifer-Houseman, Pastor of Leadership Development.   Later in the summer, you’ll have the opportunity to meet Tony Traback who will take over leadership in mobilizing us in mission.

Some of you have already begun to experience the gift that Mark is to our community.  He has a long track record of integrity, leadership effectiveness, organizational savvy, and most importantly, deep love for Jesus and for the church.  I am very excited about his ministry amongst us. 

As I thank God for Mark and his family, I also want to take the opportunity to express my profound gratitude to God for the excellent gifts that many of you offer so freely to make our church a place of grace and shalom.  The gifts of your love and passion bring honor to God, whether those gifts are high profile or hidden, leadership in nature or supportive, formal or informal.  May God multiply the joy of your life in Him many times over.

Shalom,

Brad