July 17: “Jean Ingram Day”

Often God’s leadership takes us by surprise. Such is the case with the leading of the Holy Spirit in the life of Jean Ingram.

A couple of weeks ago, Jean Ingram shared with our church staff her plans to retire in July of this year.  Earlier this week, Jean sent a letter to the parents and children of FBCP sharing her decision. 

As pastor, I knew that this day would come, eventually.  I just expected that it would be a few more years down the road. But Jean is a prayer warrior.  And when Jean told me that she had prayed about this and felt God’s peace in the timing of her decision, I knew that this was the right decision for Jean.

Since August 12, 1987 Jean Ingram has been a part of our ministry staff at First Baptist Church.  She started as director of our Mother’s Day Out program.  Later she became our Interim Children’s Ministries Coordinator.  And eventually she was asked to become the permanent Minister of Children.

For the past 24 years, Jean has faithfully served as a minister to all generations at First Baptist Church.  She has cultivated and nurtured the principles of the Christian faith in our children.  She has capably provided leadership for our Pre-School.  She has encouraged and equipped young parents.  She has visited us when we were in the hospital.  She has led in worship with prayers, scriptures, and songs. She has been an inspiring teammate to each of our ministers.  And perhaps, most importantly, she has prayed for all of us.  Every one of us at FBCP have been blessed by Jean’s friendship and influence.

To celebrate Jean’s ministry, we are declaring Sunday July 17 as Jean Ingram Day at FBC Pensacola.  During each of the morning services, we will highlight the positive impact of Jean’s ministry.  Then on Sunday afternoon, we will have a grand celebration and reception in Chipley Hall.

The good news is that Jean and Al will continue to be an active part of our FBC Family.

In the weeks ahead, we will share more about the interim plan for Children’s Ministry.  We are grateful that with foresight and commitment to FBCP, Jean has put together a plan and a team to continue the exciting summer activities. 

I continue to appreciate your faithfulness during the summer months. July 3 is Red, White, and Blue Sunday.  I hope you have plans for a fun celebration on this 4^th of July weekend, and I hope that you will exercise your Religious Liberty, by making it a priority to be in Bible study and worship this Sunday.