Thank You, Brad!

I first met Brad Gowing at the Carols and Candles Service not long after I arrived in Pensacola. I knew he had to be a pretty good guy, just because of the way his parents talked about him so proudly when he wasn’t around.  Little did I know that three years later, we would be calling Brad to our church to serve as Minister of Students.  And after working alongside him for the past 3 ½ years, I can tell you for certain that Brad is a really good guy, and what you see is what you get….a down-to-earth devoted follower of Christ.

Brad started his tenure on our staff in May of 2008. Next week, he is completing his ministry here to return to Birmingham to serve as Minister of Recreation at Dawson Church where his ministry began. 

During his time at First Baptist, Brad has capably provided solid leadership for our Middle School and High School students.  He has consistently balanced strong discipleship initiatives with fun recreational opportunities.  Parents are grateful for his workshops and planning meetings that keep them in the loop.  Teachers are appreciative of Brad’s insightful planning and dependable implementation.  

Additionally, Brad has visited, prayed, listened, and encouraged many of our members during their hospital stay or in a moment of crisis.  The Lord has used Brad to minister to us and with us at First Baptist.

Although we wish that his tenure with us had been longer, we send Brad and Maile (I heard a rumor that Addison is staying here with grandparents but haven’t verified this) to their new assignment in Birmingham with our blessings and our prayers for continued effective ministry.

As a church family, just as the Lord led us to Brad in 2008, we are confident that God is going to lead us to the right person to lead our Student Ministry.  We have outstanding students and a strong leadership core.  Begin now praying for our Student Ministry Search Team as they prayerfully lead us in calling our next Minister of Students.  Members of the Search Team are Maddie Dempsey, Tripp Hill, Leslie Hutcherson, Janet Strange, Luther Taylor, and Robert Turnage.

A reception is planned to honor Brad and Maile this Sunday evening in Chipley Hall from 6:00-8:00 p.m.  A brief tribute and gift presentation will begin around 6:30.  Don’t forget to write your personal words of appreciation on a card or note and drop it in the card basket at the reception.

Brad, you have been a blessing to us.  Thank you for a job well done!

Remember these upcoming events:

• Blessing of the Shoeboxes this Wednesday night.
• Lord’s Supper on Sunday November 13.
• International Missions Program on November 16.
• Parade of Flags and Deck the Halls on Sunday November 20.
• Community Thanksgiving Service on November 22.
• Children’s Church beginning December 4.

This Sunday we are talking about the story of Jonah and “Lessons from the Bottom of the Sea.” 

I look forward to seeing you in worship and Bible study.