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Blog Archive
September 20, 2022
Terry's Thoughts October 2022
Certainly, by now most of you have heard of God’s call on our lives and that we are moving to another place of service. I have decided to dedicate my last newsletter article to you: the “Best Association” in the state of North Carolina. First, however, I wanted you to have my resignation letter for its message, and which I submitted to our leaders (Moderator and Vice Moderator) in August as well as to the pastors in early September. The following is that letter:
Dearest Saints,
One who follows Christ is always subject to His leading. When He leads us to share our faith with a neighbor, family member, co-worker, or a person we just met, our response to that leadership should always be the same: “Yes Lord.” “Yes Lord,” is also required when one is called to another aspect of ministry or another place of service. While sharing your faith can be challenging, moving to a new place of service can be equally difficult; however, both can be rewarding in the end. Our obedience to the challenges mentioned above is non-negotiable as believers. Based on this reality, it is with both a heavy heart and a joyful heart that I must submit my resignation, as your DOM/AMS, effective October 10, 2022, to follow His calling to another place of service.
The above decision was not entered into lightly nor without a great deal of prayer followed by a great deal of listening to His leading as He answered our prayer concerning this matter. In fact, the calling, to another place of service, has interrupted our lives, but we are convinced it is the right move for our lives and ministry. In other words, Greta and I were completely satisfied remaining in the West Chowan Baptist Association (WCBA) until the Rapture, and we were completely surprised by this calling; however, when He calls, we must sit up, take notice, prayerfully consider the calling, and follow, once we have determined it is the right thing to do. We have determined that this move is the right thing for us.
On a personal note, this has been one of the most difficult decisions we have ever had to make. Leaving a place and people who are dearly loved is never easy, but hopefully there will be understanding and ultimately joy knowing we have obeyed His command. The entire WCBA along with its leadership, over the last eight plus years, has been so supportive, helpful, kind, and willing to work together for the cause of Christ. That kind of cooperation is a rare thing on a large scale, but you have done it and have taught me much that will always stay with me. I look forward to assisting others to “Make Christ Followers Who Follow Christ!” Our hearts are broken knowing we will be leaving friends we love, and yet our hearts are filled with joy to know that He has, in fact, called so clearly, much like He did when He called us to you. Always remember that we love you, have been honored to serve you, and will always be a big fan of the WCBA!
Secondly, I wanted a few lines of personal privilege to express our appreciation for this great association.
- From day one, Greta and I have been welcomed with open arms and hearts that have sustained us over the last 8 plus years. The joy we have experienced becoming family has been gratifying and easy, especially important since we had never been in this area.
- Our associational leadership, throughout the years, has been nothing short of amazing. Their cooperation, support, and eagerness to forward the cause of Christ has been a thing of beauty.
- Then there are the relationships I have built with the pastors. Brothers, your support, love, and friendship has been VERY SPECIAL to me, and I will never forget any of you. This also includes those who have moved on to other places of ministry. As a reminder, I am and will remain your friend and will always be available to you through a simple phone call, text, or email.
- Oh, and we can’t forget the sweet people of our churches. In fact, without the amazing people of our churches, ministry couldn’t get done. I love you guys and have always counted it a privilege to work alongside of each of you.
- The many mission trips to our partner associations, throughout the years, have been a high point of our ministry here. Seeing God move in the hearts of the saints and pastors of our association while we were on mission has been nothing short of amazing. Space will not allow me to detail all these moments but know that they are many and cherished.
- I can’t help but also remember the saints that we all miss who have gone home to be with Jesus. So many have had a real impact on my life and the life of this great association.
- The staff I have had the privilege of working with, including our current staff (Rebeccah, Charlie, and Katie), have been so helpful and a joy to work with. Please don’t forget to remember how BLESSED we have been and are with those we employ to serve this great association.
- Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the love of my life (outside of Jesus), Greta. I have had the honor to be married to Greta for over 45 years and not one day goes by that I am not reminded of the saint of God that lives with me. She has always been a constant help mate, friend, fellow servant, and has, along with me, loved this association. I love you sweetheart!!
I could go on, but hopefully you get the idea that I am grateful for the opportunity to have served you and you will always be a part of my life and ministry. As the association moves forward, please remember to pray for the leadership, the inevitable search team, and the next servant God has planned for this great association. YOU HAVE BEEN, AND WILL ALWAYS BE, NEAR AND DEAR TO MY HEART!! I LOVE YOU!!
Terry