January 25, 2004

President's Report

This past year Bethel experienced two major changes. One was Pastor Jim moving on to another congregation. Bethel was blessed to have Pastor Jim as associate as well as lead pastor. Our loss is certainly the gain for Tanque Verde in Tucson Arizona. We were blessed that within 2 months of Pastor Jim’s departure, Pastor Ken Andersen joined us as transition lead pastor. Pastor Ken’s passions are teaching, evangelism and stewardship. If you have not already done so please introduce yourself to Pastor Ken.

I’m sure you join me in thanking Pastor Rick for all his extra work and the responsibilities he assumed in the 2 months between Pastor Jim’s departure and Pastor Ken’s arrival. Pastor Rick of course had the support of a great Bethel staff and of course, the Bethel congregation.

At the Spring 2003 leadership retreat, the focus was on welcoming. Pastor Jim had been challenging this congregation to be more welcoming and to realize that this community of faith is meant to serve those not yet in our community. Bethel is an incredibly supportive place to its members. Our challenge is to maintain that spirit and yet also turn that spirit to the community outside Bethel.

You have now seen many of the physical changes to our facilities: the repaved parking lot, improved sanctuary lighting, video projection capabilities and the start of the outside landscaping. I would like to thank all who worked to make these changes a reality. We all need to continue to support these physical changes as well as the internal-personal change.

While there are signs that the local economy is improving, the council continues to be closely monitoring giving and spending. As was true last year, this has been a tough year financially.

In closing, I want to thank everyone for their support of the staff and leadership of Bethel. I have been personally encouraged by your prayers and words of encouragement. I know first hand the importance of a simple “thanks for your time and effort”. I would ask that everyone let the council and ministry leads know your thoughts, hopes and concerns.

I strongly encourage every member to find an opportunity to serve Sunday morning as well as find a small group to join. The opportunities for Sunday morning service are numerous and open to all. I know you will be blessed and find amazing fellowship, support and spiritual growth by being part of a small group.

I want to thank the individuals who are finishing their current Council or Ministry terms: Dave Tribby vice-president, Rosemarie Reichard council member-at-large, Marion Abney children’s ministry, Nick and Cindy Arnett discipleship, and Peter Marshall stewardship.

That Christ may dwell in your heart through faith. 

Mark Evashenk