I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you. This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. 2 Timothy 1:5-8

REDEMPTIVE MEETING: February may well have been fabulous overall (see yesterday’s post), but the last few days turned out to be pretty rough, featuring Rebekah’s busted back, a seriously distressing dental visit for me, plus an annoyingly bad cold for good measure.

So it was more than gratifying – more like redemptive – to be able to drive over to Greenville for the quarterly meeting of New Hope Presbytery and celebrate ministry milestones with two outstanding men from our church.

First, Bob Beichner was approved as a candidate for ordained ministry in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Bob, a professor at North Carolina State University, is internationally acclaimed as an innovative educator, and has served as an elder at WFPC. He shared an inspirational story about his call and was received enthusiastically.

Then, John Fawcett was received into membership at New Hope Presbytery, and gracefully jumped through the last denominational hoop before his official installation as our associate pastor for discipleship and mission next week.

Like Bob, John spoke eloquently and passionately about his call, and about his commitment to ministry in and through WFPC.

JOY & PASSION: It was quite obvious to everyone gathered in Greenville Saturday afternoon that WFPC is synonymous with commitment, love, passion, joy, and enthusiasm for following Jesus.

Seriously, folks, if that simple approach to living faith out loud becomes the hallmark of how our church presents the Good News, both in our local community and through the community of Presbyterians, then I see nothing but exciting ministry in the years ahead.

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” – Ephesians 3:20

– DEREK

More images from the meeting of New Hope Presbytery: