This past Sunday we took time in worship at our Plaistow Campus to express our love and appreciation to Pastor James and his wife Lynette. For a number of years Pastor James has served as the campus pastor in Plaistow. His wife Lynette had also served for many years as the Administrative Assistant at the Plaistow campus. Effective this week, Pastor James is stepping down from his pastoral role. As you may have heard, Lynette is facing some significant health concerns, so Pastor James felt it was best to step back from the pastoral position in order to focus more time at home. As we expressed on Sunday, I want to repeat here a heartfelt thanks for the years of sacrificial service both Pastor James and Lynette have provided.
Some of you may also have heard that Pastor Paul, from our North Shore Campus, has announced that he and Lisa will also be transitioning. For several year Paul and Lisa have been considering a move South to enjoy a warmer climate and be closer to family. With the housing market being favorable, it seemed like the right time to take this big step. They announced a couple of weeks ago that they had put their house on the market. They have had an offer on their house and, if all goes according to plan, they will be moving towards the end of March. Pastor Paul’s final Sunday in church will be March 17th. I want to invite you to join us for that special service as we take time to express appreciation to Pastor Paul and Lisa for their ministry among us.
I want to encourage us to take the time to express appreciation to each of these great pastoral families. Whether it be a written note, text, email or an in person conversation, let’s all take the time to let them know how much we appreciate their faithful service to God through Rock Church.
On another note, I want to let you know that next Wednesday, February 14th is Ash Wednesday. This day marks the beginning of the season of Lent. Lent is that season of preparation leading up to the Cross and ultimately, the resurrection of Jesus. On Ash Wednesday we will have an all church combined service at 6:00 pm at our Plaistow Campus. We invite everyone to join us for this important observance that marks the beginning of this holy season.
This Sunday will be the final week of our “house of prayer” series. You will not want to miss this important and impactful final message. I hope you will all be able to join us at one of our Rock Church locations. Have a blessed week.
I love you all,
Pastor Steve