Another major aspect of conference is the Commissioning and Ordination of persons into ministry. This year has been especially meaningful in that regard because of a new appointment for Sugarloaf. On Tuesday night Mike Devine was commissioned as a "Provisional Elder" in the Church. This is a great accomplishment and means he has passed rigorous review by the Church and is authorized to serve as a pastor. After a three year period of service, he will be ordained as a "Full Elder". On Friday of this week, Mike will be officially appointed as the first Associate Pastor at Sugarloaf! We are really excited about what Mike will bring to the ministry team at the church. His primary responsibility will be in the area of Spiritual Formation; developing a process to help persons grow and deepen their relationship with Christ. He will work with our lay leadership in enhancing our ministry with women, men and adults. You will also see him leading worship on Sunday mornings. Mike and Kit's first "official" Sunday with us will be June 26th.
Also attending the Conference with Becky and me are Kerry Lauria (Congregational Care) and Ken Powers (Lay Delegate) I am grateful for them and all they do make Sugarloaf the absolute best church in the North Georgia Conference to serve!
On Friday, I am looking forward to being appointed back as your Senior Pastor. This is truly an amazing church! We are doing things that are making an impact on the world. We are seeing God work in our midst. We are seeing families and individuals deepen their spiritual lives. We are setting an example of creative and effective outreach and ministry to the community. And the best thing is....we are only getting started! There is so much God is preparing for us in the future. I feel so blessed and excited to be part of it!
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday as we celebrate the events of this week's "Summer Sensational." Once again, Lori Cotter and her incredible team have pulled off a fantastic experience for our kids.
Till next time,
Stuart
