Page 2
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
Thanks for picking up or clicking open this year‘s leadership updates on the life at Living Faith Alliance Church.
Inside these pages you will find a variety of reports ranging from the goal pastorates have of dramatically increas-
ing participation to the numbers on financial graphs or the comments of missions trip participants. All of these
reports are little glimpses of what God is doing here at Living Faith Alliance. God has blessed us over and over
again and you can read His faithfulness again this year as each leader has something to celebrate. The words you‘ll
read laying the foundation for what our church works at every day; as Pastor Nathan writes ―we lead people to
become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ who impact our world‖. Please go slow, take the time to read
each report, keep it around until you‘ve digested it all. I hope you‘ll be caught up in the excitement and as we
look ahead to 2010 you‘ll join in as we work with Kingdom focus.
Matthew Rudd
Administrator
Nathan Howard- Senior Pastor
Greg Hill- Pastor of Teaching & Adult Education
Diego Cuartas- Pastor of Mercy & Prayer
Michael MacAdam- Youth Pastor
Mark Gebhardt– Worship Pastor
Bill Fennen- Pastorate Coordinator
Sharon Howard- Family Coordinator
Chris Laury- Children Coordinator (ages 0-5)
Frank Geremia- Children Coordinator (grades 1-6)
Matthew Rudd- Administrator
Charissa Ricketts- Office Manager
Jayme Carter- Promotions Director
Dave Ritchie- Maintenance
Page 3
Opening Remarks and Meditation
Confirmation of Quorum
Meeting Overview and Direction
Agenda 3
Amendments to the ...
2009 Annual Meeting Minutes By-Laws 3
Vision Q & A with Senior Pastor
2009 Minutes 4
Discussion on Finances & 2010 Budget
Vote to Receive 2010 Budget 2010 Nominations 5
Selection of 2010 Officers &
The proposed 2010 budget 6
Nominating Committee
Closing Prayer Finance Report 9
Treasurer Report 9
Ministry Reports:
Senior Pastor 10
Alpha 12
1. The Elder Board shall be elected by the con-
gregation at the Annual Meeting for a one, Family 12
two or three year term. This Board shall be
Pastorates 13
the main authority in the operation of the
church. Missions 14
2. The Administrative Board shall not consist
of more than 13 members including the Deaconess 15
Church Administrator and, as elected by the
congregation at the Annual Meeting, the Visitation 16
Board Secretary, Assistant Board Secretary,
Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Financial Trustees 16
Secretary, Head Trustee, three members at
large and in the absence of a pastor adminis- Mercy 17
trator, an elder representative.
3. The Head Deacon/Deacons and Head Dea- Children 18
coness/Deaconesses shall be elected by the
congregation at the Annual Meeting for a Worship 20
one, two or three year term.
Youth 21
Updated: January 2008
Teaching 22
& Adult Education
Deacons 23
Page 4
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
LIVING FAITH ALLIANCE CHURCH
ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING
JANUARY 18, 2009
The 2009 Annual Meeting of Living Faith Alliance Church (formerly Vineland Alliance Church) was opened with scrip-
ture from Ephesians 4:11-16, followed by prayer.
The attendance sheet was passed around. The Chairman declared that the members present constitute a quorum.
It was moved, seconded, and all agreed that the Agenda be adopted.
The minutes of the January 20, 2008 meeting were read and approved as read.
Consideration and Adoption of the report of the Treasurer: Jim Rhoda gave the report. It was moved, seconded and all
agreed that we receive the report.
Consideration and Adoption of the Budget: The 2009 Budget was presented by Treasurer, Jim Rhoda, assisted by Ad-
ministrator Matthew Rudd. This was followed by a question and answer period. It was moved, seconded and all agreed
that we accept the Budget as given.
Report of the Nominating Committee: There were two corrections to the report. #1, Tom Barbour is Elder through
2009; and #2, Kim Jelinek's name was deleted form the Deaconess list at her request.
Also it was noted that John Shepherd, Head Trustee, will not sit on the board, since his wife will be a Board member.
Dave Guyton will take his place at Board meetings.
Election of Officers for 2009: A motion was made and seconded to instruct the Secretary to cast a unanimous ballot for
the entire slate of officers. All agreed.
Election of Nominating Committee for 2010- The following names were nominate, with two to be selected: Shirley
Hayman, Jane Shepherd, Frank Bellone, Angie Hill, Steve Vandzura,. The two selected by secret ballot were Steve Vand-
zura and Shirley Hayman.
Senior Pastor Nathan Howard led a discussion on the building Campaign, giving us a status report also.
Ministry Reports: There was time for questions related to reports from the various ministries. We were encouraged to
read them all if we had not already done so.
Since there was no further business the meeting ended with a circle of prayer of all attendees.
Respectfully submitted,
Jean B. Bates
Administrative Board Secretary
Page 5
2010 Term Position Current Term
Nominees Length Title Officers Ends
Elder Board
Charlie Caldwell 3 years Diego Cuartas 2010
Hap Hyson 3 years Bob Jackson 2010
Matt Hartman 3 years Mike MacAdam 2011
Mark Gebhardt 3 years Bill Fennen 2012
Frank Bellone 2012
Frank Geremia 2012
Greg Hill 2012
Administrative Board
Jean Bates 1 Year Secretary 2010
Charissa Ricketts 1 Year Assistant Secretary 2010
Leslie Baruffi 1 Year Treasurer 2010
Jonathon Houdart 1 Year Assistant Treasurer 2010
Jane Shepherd 1 Year Financial Secretary 2010
Bob Allen 1 Year Member at large 2010
Jane Caldwell 1 Year Member at large 2010
Walt Hayman 1 Year Member at large 2010
Deacon
Rich Irion 3 years Rich Weatherby** 2010
Bernie Vandzura* 1 year Rich Barnes 2010
Dave Cranston* 1 year Kim Zimmerman 2010
Deaconess
Sue Hyson 3 years Debbie Pakosinski** 2010
Bonnie Jackson 1 year Sara Bermudez 2010
Erika Cook 3 years Rosemary Sotile 2010
Lisa Prato* 1 year Hilda Fernandez 2010
Ruth Thompson* 1 year
Mary Icavelli* 1 year
Trustee
John Shepherd** 1 year Head Trustee
Curtis Zimmerman 1 Year Rep to Admin Board
Ted Laury 1 Year
Dan Cook 1 Year
Frank Medio 1 Year
Steve Vandzura 1 Year
Dave Ritchie 1 Year * Denotes understudy position
Al Lombardi*** 1 Year **Denotes Head position
Tim Goggin*** 1 Year
Page 6
2009 2010
Revenue Actual Proposed
General Fund $ 703,260 $ 703,260
Ministry
Ministry Resources 63,866 63,700
Regional Alpha USA Support - 10,000
Ministry Staff
Senior Pastor 78,602 79,372
Truth for Living 66,979 66,874
Mercy 40,066 40,261
Youth 54,019 32,261
Celebration 20,081 30,000
Family 32,569 29,102
Children 24,102 24,102
Pastorates - 20,000
Total Ministry Staff 316,417 321,971
Total Ministry 380,283 395,671
Administration
Administrative Staff
Administrator 40,000 40,000
Office Manager 36,324 30,000
Promotions 19,597 16,800
Custodial 11,330 11,330
Office Support 3,290 1,250
Total Administrative Staff 110,541 99,380
Office Expenses
Equipment (Printer, Phones, Computers) 21,378 18,000
Support Services (Audit, Legal, Consult) 3,862 12,500
Supplies (Paper, Postage, Literature) 9,956 11,000
Total Office Expenses 35,196 41,500
Facilities Care
Maintenance & Improvements 9,640 10,000
Supplies (Janitorial, Kitchen) 2,163 4,000
Total Facilities Care 11,803 14,000
Utilities 17,302 20,500
Grounds
Property Maintenance 8,616 9,000
Insurance (Liability, Auto, Workers) 5,067 5,759
Vehicle & Gasoline 2,199 2,000
Total Grounds 15,883 16,759
Rental 17,458 30,000
Taxes
Payroll Taxes 12,940 12,820
Property Taxes 6,022 6,500
Total Taxes 18,962 19,320
District & National Imbursement 52,356 54,151
Contingency
6
General Contingency 3,159 5,000
Capital Reserve 40,319 6,978
8%
Total Contingency 43,478 11,978
Total Administration 322,977 307,589
Total Expenses
9
703,260 703,260
Page 7
Love
Offerings Deacons
In/Out $3,827
$19,539
$21,887 Other $2,633
GCF $42,512
S-T Missions
$57,178
$ 1,030,448
Building
General
$179,611
$703,261
2009 Expenses 2010 Proposed
3% $703,260 Ministry Staff
$ 703,260 $ 703,260
$703,260 Minist
3% Administrative Staff 2% 2%
2% 2% 3%2% Admin
5%
4%
Ministry Resources
6% Minist
6% Denomination Dues
49% Denom
46% 8%
Contingency
8% Office
2009 ExpensesExpenses
Office
Rental
3% $703,260 Taxes Ministry Staff
9% Administrative Staff Taxes
9% 3%
2% 2% Rental
Ministry Resources Ground
5% Grounds 15%
16% Facilit
6% Denomination Dues
Facilities Care
46%
2009 Expenses
8% Contingency Contin
3% $703,260 Ministry Staff Office Expenses
3% Administrative Staff Taxes
2% 2%
5% 9% Ministry Resources Rental
6% Denomination Dues Grounds
16%
46%
% Contingency Facilities Care
Office Expenses
Taxes
9% Rental
16% Grounds
Page 8
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
Page 9
Change has become the historical norm for Living Faith Alliance Church, and 2009
proved to fall in line with precedent and finished about as exciting and faith-driven as it
began. After noting that 2009 was likely to have some economic bumps, we scaled
back the budget to $734,865. As the year progressed, the disparity between projected
revenue and actual revenue grew, and we reigned in spending several times throughout
the year to adjust for the shortfall. The staff changes frequently affected the numbers
and kept our meticulous bookkeeper in her love/hate relationship with spreadsheets.
Thanks for your diligence, Charissa.About the time our giving shortfall peaked at -
$55,000 Pastor Nathan called on the whole Body to tithe regularly for the remainder
of the year. The Body responded overwhelmingly to this challenge; giving increased by
over 35%! Our year-end General Fund giving came to a total of $703,260; that‘s nearly
a 2% growth, in midst of recession… simply amazing. Not only that but total giving
topped the previous year as well, coming in at $1,030,448; growth of nearly 1%! Simply
amazing… an amazing God and an amazing Body. Thank you all for playing your part.
It‘s so exciting to see the Kingdom of God on the move.
Respectfully,
Matthew Rudd , Administrator
In my final year as Church Treasurer, I rebound as a stronger and larger better job than my often fumbling
have seen God continue to bless us in church when leadership is restored at efforts.
our finances, just as He has in so many the helm. If we only look ahead, we see challenges
others areas. My focus for the past sev- I have seen us step out in faith to sell in all directions. Decisions must be
eral years has been primarily on the our church property, leave the com- made that will impact our church and its
financial side of the church. I have forts of the known, for the hopes of people for years to come. When we
looked on it as my ministry and God has the future. feel inadequate to meet those chal-
used the talents He gave me for His I have seen our focus as a church lenges, that is when we must turn and
purpose. Over the years, I have seen change as we looked toward helping look back to where we have come
our church grow from some very shaky the hurting both inside and outside from, the journey on which God has
times, in which we didn‘t know if we our church body. taken us, the hardships we have over-
could meet payroll week after week, to I have seen us handle tough situations come, and the progress we have made.
what is now a church on very solid fi- as a church which reminded us to put I feel that our church is well led, and
nancial footing. our faith in God, not in a man, and strong enough to stand up to any chal-
I have seen our church body top one not in a building. lenge as long as we keep our focus on
million dollars in a single giving year I have learned that we can plan all we God‘s will and not our own. Our
(2008 & 2009). want, but that God will reign su- strength comes from Him who died to
I have seen our staffing grow from preme, in spite of our plans. set us free. ―What, then, shall we say in
one pastor and one part time secre- I have watched individuals grow from response to this? If God is with us, who
tary to a very professional and experi- inexperienced, dubious people, to can be against us?‖ Rom 8:31 (NIV).
enced staff that can handle almost any mature men and women of faith who
challenge thrown at them. have stepped up to be new leaders of God bless you all and the future of our
I have seen us go through one church our church. church,
building campaign that tested those I have watched the youth in our Jim Rhoda
who were in the church at that time; church grow up to become the new Outgoing Treasurer
now we‘ve launched another cam- leaders of our church with their own
paign, stretching us in faith again, as families to care for with the help and
the world economy faces its biggest leadership of God.
challenge since the Great Depression And I have seen that it is time that I
of the 1930s. should turn over my duties to others,
I have seen our church go through whom I am confident will do an even
periods without a senior pastor and
Page 10
NGTHS: ed to begin a th
ird
O U R S T R E ration now fills two services, wkingallydne ople experiencing
e re
an pe
Our Sunday C
eleb s of God spea ven‘t even had
regular report e, when we ha
servic e, and we hear t own ou r meeting plac ing that our Su
n-
when we don‘ simply a God th from 2008).
God. At a time advertised, it‘s
t, and we have
n‘t before (up 10%
a sign out fron larger than ever orship
has grown to be uth Ministry, W
day Celebration n‘s Ministry, Yo more trained leaders,
: Alpha, Childre le,
ries are strong ve more peop for
Our minist orates, Truth For Living all ha were over 300 people gathered
Ministry, Pa st cently there
life change. Re
more stories of g ministries! estion is:
enin urch, our big qu
W ednesday ev r of pe ople in our ch y, we hear repo
rts
than the numbe for God‘s glor
M ore important es? A nd in answer, zed, habitual sinful
ing in those liv arriages stabili
what‘s happen t life change: m e experiencing
kly, almost da ily, of significan emotional an d mental troubl hat Church is
wee vere w
, people with se od. And that‘s
patterns broken glimpses of the Kingdom of G
see
healing ... we
all about. r Cele-
ve a building fo
We don‘t haWednesday programs.
bration and OUR WEAKN
You read that
right … being
a
t just a We need to be
ESSES:
ople‖ is no
―wandering pe more relationally
connected. Too ma
a tremendous come and go from
weakness, it is g, our church withou ny people can
portunity. W ithout a buildin nected to anybod
y.
t ever getting signif
icantly con-
op ee
tly absolutely fr As a church, in
we are curren se t our disciple-makin
ve the unique is too much like a g process, we are
of debt and ha od shopping mall with scattered; LFAC
of circumstan ces to follow G and not enough lik
e a lean, focused ch
people going in ma
ny directions,
He leads the same directio ampionship team,
into wherever g is n. all moving in
out a buildin We are living wi
us. Being with int thin the largest US
only a wea kness to the po WWII. Unemplo
yment has not on
economic slump sin
ce
we believe ch urch is all pacting people wi ly impacted South
that thin our church. Jersey, it is im-
g. Surely no church
about a buildin ability to foresee
that our nation wo leaders, given the
would choose to uld enter into finan
enter into a major cial crisis,
we didn‘t realize wh building program.
at we were enterin And though
whether or not we g, God certainly did
saw it ahead of tim . But
don‘t have the inc e, our current reali
ome to begin our ty is we
We don‘t have new building.
a building for Celeb
grams. I‘ve listed ration and Wedne
this as both a stren sday pro-
The changes and challenges of 2009: Word says, "Whe gth and a weakne
n I am weak, I am ss — like God‘s
God presented Living Faith Alliance Church with strong."
many opportunities to test our living faith. It was a year of:
Significant staff changes (Art Baruffi,
John Shepherd, Mike MacAdam, Charlie Caldwell, Mark Gebhardt, Jayme Carter),
Financial testing, followed by an unusual surge of year-end giving,
The unexpected news of the end of our lease agreement at Main Road and the need to find new rental space for our Sunday Cele-
bration and Wednesday ministries by April 25, 2010,
Falling far short of the money we expected to raise to build our new sanctuary and classrooms on Lincoln Ave.
What most threatens our future?
Our own immaturity: throughout our past, as individuals, we have established patterns of thoughts, actions, and values. Now, in Christ,
we have new patterns Jesus is forming in us. If we move in the old patterns, we are a threat to ourselves and what God desires to
do. Specifically, we must not grumble. When things aren‘t as we would like or imagine, we must learn to look towards God‘s truth
for guidance and lovingly engage each other in respectful dialogue.
Missed opportunities and mistaken priorities. Mistaken priorities lead to missed opportunities. Living Faith Alliance is uniquely posi-
tioned to glorify God by discipling believers who impact our world for Christ. We may never be in this situation again. So we don‘t
want to miss out on what God has for us. Complacency, dragging our feet, looking to the past out of a commitment to comfort or the
status quo, can keep us from what God intends for us. Now is the time for us to make sure we understand very clearly and give our-
selves energetically to God‘s highest priorities for His Church.
Page 11
Where do we go from here?
What’s the plan for our new building?
First, let‘s review our original 2 year ―plan‖:
Within one year of the sale of the Main Road property, we wanted to raise $1.2m capital, and then take on a construction mortgage of
approximately $2.5m. The revenue from the sale of Main Road paid off all existing debt and helped us fit up the Lincoln Ave. Building.
After raising $1.2m, we planned to break ground by May, 2009 and begin building as we continue to raise money.
We intended to build a new Sanctuary and classrooms over a one year period and be in the new building by May, 2010, which would be
the same time our agreement at Main Road ended.
What’s next for our building?
Those two years are almost past. We look forward to the time, over the next few years, when our original
goal of $1.2 million will be reached and God enables us to begin and com-
Where are we? plete the construction of our new building with a Sanctuary and ministry
We've raised: $306,347. space for children‘s ministry, for counseling and recovery ministry, and for
To meet city codes and make progress, we began re- adult training in God‘s Word.
quired projects that were within the scope of the origi- Until then, to continue to make progress, we will simplify the large-scale
nal building plans and within our cash limits: building project into more manageable cash-based projects:
1. installation of new higher capacity water main, 1. Widen/add deceleration lane on Lincoln Ave.,
2. removal of mini-golf, 2. Establish a sewer connection to City sewer,
3. new parking lot, 3. Landscape,
4. new sewer design, 4. Site work - grading, retention pond, parking,
5. engineering and architectural planning. 5. Possibly divide plans for new building into smaller stages.
We spent $199,808 on those projects. We will continue to be fiscally responsible and conservative with our Gen-
Our balance in building fund: $106,539. eral Fund in an effort to position ourselves to handle future expenses re-
lated to a new building, namely mortgage and utilities.
Where will we meet until the new building
is built?
Thanks to all who have been praying about our search for a meeting place for our Sunday and Wednesday activities. In two months, our time
at 1115 Main Road will come to an end and the church we had been talking to about renting has decided to NOT extend an invitation to us to
meet there. This was a significant change from what we had all anticipated.
At the time I write this, we do not yet know where we will be meeting after April 24 so what is important for us is to pray, asking God what
He wants to say to us and do for us in our need. There are some options available to us, but we want to follow God‘s leadership. We are
planning on continuing our current schedule with two services on Sunday morning and Alpha, Children‘s and Jr. High Ministries and Truth For
Living classes on Wednesday evening.
Please pray for Matthew Rudd, Craig Ritchie and others who will be doing the footwork to explore new possibilities. Pray also for wisdom for
the Pastors Team in determining the impact of new rental possibilities on our ministry programing.
Recently I had such an encouraging experience of sensing God singing a song over me early in the morning before I woke up. Though I can‘t
remember the specific song, the key line was: ―God is in control.‖ Let‘s believe Him!
We’re not just building a new building, we’re building up the Body of Christ
More than a physical building, we have to stay on task of building God‘s Church at the same time as building a new building. We can‘t let the
building of a church building get us off track from growing in what God desires His Church to be.
In building up LFAC, our biggest emphasis will be to gain greater clarity in the way we lead people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus
Christ who impact our world. We need to simplify the way we do church. We realize it is counter-productive to ask people to fill their
schedule with church activities, while at the same time call on them to invest in their marriage, their family and in missional relationships with
their friends, co-workers and neighbors. We need to be more precise in leading non-Christians to become part of God‘s family and to then
grow to become fully devoted followers of Jesus who lead others to be fully devoted followers of Christ.
Central to our future will be Pastorates - they will increasingly become the heart of where we live out the life of Living Faith Alliance Church.
Thanks
I want to express deep gratitude for what God is doing among us and for the people who are part of the life of this Church. It is so obvious
that we are a Body — that we need each other, that no one person can carry the life of this church. A special thanks to those who faithfully
pray for me, my family and our church. Thanks to those who have served close at my side: John Shepherd, Charlie Caldwell, Mike MacAdam,
Diego Cuartas, Greg Hill, Bill Fennen, Jayme Carter, Charissa Ricketts, Mark Gebhardt, Frank Geremia, Chris Laury, Dave Ritchie, Lois Robin-
son, Dina Previti, Matthew Rudd, Sarah Howard, and my best friend, Sharon.
Respectfully Submitted,
Nathan Howard
Sr. Pastor
Page 12
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
ALPHA’S MISSION: To give seek- with much trembling. My message and Looking forward to 2010…
ers a safe place to explore the meaning my preaching were not with wise and We will be looking to advertise the
of life. As opposed to ―religion,‖ AL- persuasive words, but with a demon- Course outside of our Church to at-
PHA presents the Gospel in the con- stration of the Spirit's power, so that tract more guests and further our
text of a relationship with a living God your faith might not rest on men's reach into the community in order to
relevant to daily life. Guests are en- wisdom, but on God's power.1 Corin- further Christ‘s Kingdom. Student AL-
couraged to participate in small groups thians 2:1-5 PHA, a course re-designed specifically
that are a safe place to discuss their for 18-25 year olds has been intro-
beliefs. Leaders are trained to listen, as 2009 was a year that showed our duced. We will be running this course
people are more apt to listen once ALPHA Course maturing. The on the campus of Cumberland County
they have been heard. number of guests continues to grow, College this year, giving us the oppor-
the majority of whom have now tunity to reach many students for
When I came to you, brothers, I did shifted from ―churched‖ to ―un- Christ. Leaders for Student ALPHA
not come with eloquence or superior churched.‖ Guests are finishing the are emerging from the existing course,
wisdom as I proclaimed to you the course, moving into our Church body, as well as our young adults Pastorate.
testimony about God. For I resolved and inviting others to come. We are
to know nothing while I was with you also seeing guests attend the course, Matthew Hartman
except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I attend the Alpha leader training, and Alpha Course Administrator
came to you in weakness and fear, and become small group leaders.
onately
raised up who passi
pray and work to see couples
―In Family Ministry,
we and wife , create
together as husband
Mission Statement: rist an d the Church, who, done in their
calling to reflect Ch share what God has
embr ace their God-given their home, an d who reach out to
ining environment of
and oversee the tra ity.‖
ilies in our commun e of parents
family with other fam us to come alongsid
y, Go d grew a passion in is past
in Children‘s Ministr e it has been over th
years I was involved k you for the privileg
For the six ren. I want to than CM, I was given
epherding their child to take over leading
in their big calling of sh mia an d Chris Laury began uip, and
re. As Frank Gere to give vision to, eq
year to begin to do that mo with the intentio n of looking for ways
stries Coordinator‖ our already existing
ministries.
the title ―Family Mini s, especially through
s and parent st year:
encourage marriage rents over this pa
in marriages & pa
s God has worked
with us some way ing God Children‘s
Workers
Please celebrate minars at the Desir
ly Se helpful in
some important Fami ich have been very
God allow ed me to be part of veral good bo oks and resources wh
, which led me to se
Conference in March s.
ministering to familie for ways to regu-
giving us vision for e,‖ and are looking
a book to re ad, ―A Parent Privileg
d elders were given
The pastors an rriage and family.
hip in their own ma and Greg
larly tal k about their leaders therings where Nate
g and Fall Parent Ga
nnect through Sprin
calling parents to co eir home as a traini
ng center.
We continued eme of developing th
on the th a safe place for mar
-
shared with parents t year and provided
during Truth For Living las
urse was given twice
The Marriage Co
riages to get help.
Page 13
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were
together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to
meet in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the
favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their numbers daily those who were being saved. Acts 2: 42-47 (TNIV)
As I reflect back, I believe the word for We praise God for answered prayer. As pastorates increasingly become
pastorates in 2009 was ―faithfulness.‖ Four new pastorates have developed central to life at the heart of LFAC,
God was faithful in his leadership; pastor- since January ‘09 giving us a total of we change, and then the world
ate leaders were faithful to their commit- nine (9) pastorates around us changes. That‘s transfor-
ments; our church leaders were faithful Monthly training events are in full mation.
to pursue more of what God desires for gear with pastoral support Looking ahead – the word for 2010 is
us. In January '09, five pastorates were It‘s amazing how the word ―maturity,‖ more of what God is already
launched. We prayed specifically for lead- ―pastorate‖ has become common doing among us. His intent was that
ers to be raised up, training and support vocabulary now, through the church, the manifold
of those leaders, a renewed mindset, As pastorates continue to grow and wisdom of God should be made known
grace as we grow, and transformation. develop, grace has been a common to the rulers and authorities in the heav-
thread enly realms. Ephesians 3:10
Currently less than 20% of our people We pray for our continued maturity into
His likeness, thus becoming a people (like
actively participate in a pastorate. Our aim is the early church) that reflect His glory.
for 80% active participation in a pastorate. Blessings,
Consider joining a pastorate! Bill Fennen , Pastorate Coordinator
Two Parenting
classes were of
World and Cas fered this year
e for Kids. Than during Truth Fo
k God for pare r Living: Effectiv
nts who want to e Parenting in a
I put quite invest in their fa Defective
a bit of effort in mily!
Home,‖ which to developing a
we offered this class for our br
past fall. Three and-new parent
12 new couples mentor couples s called ―Parentin
that came. Wha participated in le g I: Forming a
t a joy to watch ading small grou
Nate spent God give them ps for the
April to July prea vision as they be
corded and over ching on the th gin their family.
250 copies wer eme of the Role
e sold. As a resu s of Men and W
their marriage an lt, many families omen. The seri
d parenting. have experience es was re-
d God in new w
Mike MacA ays in
dam invited pare
nts of youth to
a Parent gather
Two family ing this fall and
outreach events had good partic
July. Thirty-som were offered th ipation.
e families came is summer: Fam
parents attended to our Family C ily Game Night
pa amp that focuse and our Family
for parent's desir rent classes while the kids wer d on ―Doing Fa Camp in
mily God‘s Way
e to be taught ho e trained in thei .‖ The
families all go ou w to bring God r part of ―family
t on the final ev into the center ." We are so gr
of their family. atef
ening to deliver
a basket to a co It was a joy to w ul
Ken and Ei mmunity family atch the
leen Hill are pr .
esently helping
hurting marriag me lead a traini
es in the future ng for couples th
. at can be called
Believing that G upon to mento
od has a beautif r
tional for Him to ul design for mar
change, we look riage and family
forward with a , and that nothin
household at a lot of hope to se g is too broken
time! eing His power or dysfunc-
continue to chan
Sharon Howard , Fa ge us...one
mily Ministries
Coordinator
Page 14
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
And He said to them, “Go into all
the world and preach the gospel to
all creation.” Mk. 16:15
This has been a transitional year for mis- Barry Jordan from Papua, Indonesia was church for several years now. It is exciting
sions at Living Faith Alliance. I would like our first missionary speaker for 2009. Our to see individuals and families step out in
to thank Pat Baruffi for her guidance and International dinner was well attended and faith to serve others in different and
for her encouragement in so many ways several remain on his e-mail list and re- unique ways. While some trips are part of
this past year. Her love of missions is evi- ceive his newsletter, through which we our ongoing efforts to serve, such as
dent, and her valuable knowledge and en- are kept up to date on what the Lord is Waveland, Camden, Mission Teens and
couragement has been a blessing to me doing through the efforts of the CMA. Ecuador, this past year a team went to
personally, and to our team as a whole. I Chicago. These mission trips have not
would also like to thank everyone on our Several people remembered Joan Ewan, only benefited the hundreds of people we
mission team for their faithfulness, support missionary to Ecuador who spoke at our have reached out to, but have also
and dedication in serving others through church a few years ago. She contacted us touched the lives of those who have gone.
missions. and we as a church collected over Our theme this year was Go To Serve;
50 pounds of toothpaste and toothbrushes Come Back Changed. Some of the quotes
As always, our emphasis encompasses to be distributed to women in prison in reported by Caleb Howard from those
local, national and international mission Peru. Thanks to the Medio family, our who participated were:
fields. We as a church found ourselves items were delivered to Joan in Florida on
represented in: China, India, Mexico, Ecua- their way to visit family there. Many also ―I realized that you don‘t have to
dor, Alaska, Waveland, Chicago, Lancas- supported Joan through the purchase of travel far away in order to serve God
ter, Camden, Vineland and throughout cards made by women in prison. The and those in need.‖
Cumberland County. While we support funds are used to purchase personal ne- ―I have also learned to praise God
CMA missions around the world through cessities for women who are incarcerated more.‖
the Great Commission Fund and by sched- and to help those newly released with ―I saw God use me in a way that I
uling CMA missionary speakers through- rent, food and clothing. This has been an thought was useless.‖
out the year, there are several in our ongoing ministry for Joan. It was a blessing ―I learned to listen and reach out to
church who are independently involved in to be part of it. those around me. There are deeper
missions around the world. Thank you to issues and troubles going on with
all who have sacrificially served the Lord in Aimee D returned from China and spoke people than they let on. I need to live
so many places this past year. to us in July. Our ―Time with Aimee‖ each day, not for myself, but for those
event was very special, and it was a time in need around me.‖
We began our year sending greetings to for each of us to welcome Aimee home
Aimee D in China, and to Jonathan, Jes- and to get a glimpse of what the Lord did The list goes on and on. Truly many came
sica and Annie Houdart in Barrow, Alaska. through her while she was there. We en- back changed. Praise God for his faithful-
We were able to keep in contact with joyed good food, music and stories which ness.
both of them through Skype, phone calls, gave us a better understanding of life in Waveland has been one of the missions
letters and prayers. We encouraged eve- China. Please continue to pray for Aimee that we as a church have embraced and
ryone to learn about ―creative access‖ as she is home on furlough and seeking invested not only our time, but our per-
countries and to understand there are God‘s direction on her next step. sonnel as well. Tom and Barbara Barbour,
many way to ―go forth‖ and reach others along with Carlos and Lily Saavedra and
for Christ. Summer ministry through various mis- children, remain in Waveland as missionar-
sion trips has been a major part of our ies ministering to the people who lost so
Page 15
much as a result of Hurricane Katrina. B. were kept busy by visiting all the pas- is that one day these children will be mis-
This year we collected books for the torates, sharing how the Lord guided sionaries for Jesus Christ.
thrift store there, as well as many other them time and time again in bringing Jesus
items which could be purchased by those to a lost world. Jon is working with a I would like to take this opportunity to
reestablishing their lives and households ―sub‖ ministry of the CMA, and while Bev thank everyone who has been involved in
in that devastated area. As the local team is officially retired after many years on hosting, supporting, participating in and
leader, Kim Zimmerman has taken sev- the mission field, she is seeking a new attending our mission functions through-
eral trips to Waveland and has taken two direction in ministry. Please continue to out this year. I would like to extend an
teams this year to help restore both lives pray for both Jon and Bev. invitation to everyone to attend our mis-
and homes there. Please keep Tom, Bar- sion meetings the first and third Tuesday
bara and the Saavedra family in your Twice each month Joan Hickman leads of each month. May the Lord bless you
prayers, because this is indeed a mission our children in Kids On A Mission. as you seek His face in understanding
field. Joan also leads parents and their children how you can be a missionary right here
each October in a mission to Lancaster, in Vineland or somewhere around the
Our fall missions conference this year PA under the GAIN program. She also world.
became an International Week due to the helps our children get involved in any of
involvement of our speakers in ―creative the mission projects throughout the year. Under His Wings,
access‖ areas. These are places where Thanks, Joan, for your dedication and Dot Marketto
missionaries are not able to go and commitment in making sure our children Missions Team Leader
openly preach the gospel. Jon N. and Bev know about world missions. Our prayer
Serving is a high calling from God. He calls us to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matt 22:38-
39). In Romans 12:10, God tells us to be devoted to one another in brotherly love and to honor
one another above ourselves. Galatians 5 says that we were "called to be free. But do not use
your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love."
I believe that this sums up what we do as Deaconesses. We serve God by serving His people, and each of our Deaconesses has
developed a servant's heart.
I want to thank each of our Deaconesses and volunteers for all the hard work and dedication they put forth in this ministry, for
obeying God, and for so selflessly reaching out to help others.
In 2009, we began a new process of recruiting volunteers to be trained and to experience life as a Deaconess. Lisa Prato, Ruth
Thompson, and Mary Iacovelli have graciously served as volunteers and have done a great job. I'd like to thank Bonnie Jackson
for her dedication in handling all communion services. (In 2010 we will be training all Deaconesses to help with communion.)
Erika Cook continues with her dedicated work in recruiting people to prepare and deliver meals to those in need. Lisa Prato and
Linda Fields have done a fantastic job sending out cards to our church family. Sue Hyson, with the help of all our Deaconesses,
has done a great job with providing & serving meals for funerals, baptism & membership retreats, and any other needs that arise.
I also want to thank Rose Sottile and Hilda Fernandez for their eager willingness to make calls and help in any way. Being pre-
sent for Baptisms is always a very special time, and all of our Deaconesses have done a great job in interacting with and help-
ing those being baptized. Our Deaconesses have also done very well with contacting/calling/visiting those in need and doing
whatever it takes to take care of God's people. I'd also like to thank Debbie Matro, Sara Bermudez, and Gia Guyton for
their work in our ministry; we are all sorry to see them go, but are trusting that God will continue to bless them as He places
them where He wants them in His service.
Our annual Thanksgiving outreach was a sucess this year, in that we had many volunteers that participated and had a great time
assembling and delivering food baskets to over 30 families. We are thankful for those who are still connecting with families that
received a basket. I'd like to extend appreciation to everyone who took part in this endeavor.
In the coming year our plans to develop a food pantry is at the forefront. There is always a need for giving food to the needy and
we would very much like to carry this out as God leads.
I look forward to serving in 2010 and to seeing what God has planned for us to do!
In His Service, Debbie Pakosinski , Head Deaconess
Page 16
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
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Page 17
"Just as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant. He is
a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf." This is what the apostle
Paul told the Colossians as he addressed them (1:7).
As I look back on the year 2009, I clearly see that I was given a
significant gift in seeing the number of ministers God is raising up.
God has raised and continues to raise up ministers among us,
who, like Epaphras, minister regularly on your behalf. I thank God
for such wonderful people and for those He will add in 2010!
Allow me to share with you some 2009 highlights and some
things that will be my focus for Mercy Ministry in 2010.
Four areas of focus for our elders will be: enhancing leader-
The 2009 Highlights: ship of their families, developing clearer policies and proce-
The visitation and deaconesses leaders made it a priority to dures, increasing coverage of our services, and more clearly
train others in the roles of visiting, caring for others, Thanks- defining their ministry roles.
giving Outreach, and living a lifestyle that is marked by living I will work with Bob Jackson to clarify how visitation training
"beyond ourselves." can serve and infiltrate into our Pastorates to reproduce the
Our deacons began redefining their approach to following up ministry.
with those who have received assistance at some point or In the area of prayer, I will take steps to establish sustainabil-
another. Our head deacon, Rich Weatherby, continued his ity in prayer in our homes, pastorates, and ministries. I envi-
involvement in the Good Sense and Freed Up classes offered sion us becoming a church that operates under the convic-
at LFA Church. tion that everything in and for God's Kingdom begins with
God has given us two special and gifted ladies who spend prayer. I also would like us to take prayer "out" into our
significant time counseling at our Lincoln Ave location. Lois community and the places where we do life. Our Times of
Robinson contributed to the training of lay counselors, over- Refreshing may take on a different format and will focus on
saw the setup of various mentoring relationships, and func- drawing from our pool of ministry leaders to spread the life
tioned as a teacher for the Breaking Free class. Dina Preveti God gives our church. I will be taking steps to form a prayer
contributed in the area of training key leaders through the team that will help me carry different aspects of this vision.
classes entitled How People Change and Helping Others
Change. She also helped us coordinate people's participation
in the CCEF Conference on "Sex Matters."
Our elders were trained as ministers for the Encounter for
Men, and God used them mightily to shepherd and care for
men during our first retreat, as well as during the different
“...become servants who
breakfasts for men. These men have served in many other
ways. It is beautiful to see each one of them functioning in
minister on behalf of
their own "niche." others with love...”
God helped us to faithfully continue offering our weekly
prayer sessions. Some of us participated in two significant
prayer movements hosted by our denomination. I also treas-
ure the testimonies I have heard of how God met people at
crucial times in their lives during Times of Refreshing.
God helped us begin training a core group in the ministry
called "Celebrate Recovery," which focuses on healing and As I begin 2010, already see God showing me the need we have
restoration for individuals who deal with any kind of hurt, to support those who grieve multiple losses in their lives. Pray for
hang up, or addiction. me as I seek clarity on this significant need in our church and
community.
Looking into the Future:
I will work with key Mercy Ministry leaders to identify and May the Lord grant us this year everything we need for doing His
develop their ministry apprentices so that they can raise oth- will (Hebrews 13:21); may we become servants who minister on
ers to do and reproduce the ministry that they do. behalf of others with love (1 Corinthians 13:3), for the Glory of
We will continue fine-tuning our communication system to our God (2 Corinthians 4:15).
better track and follow up with those in need.
I will work with our Community Outreach coordinator, Kim On your behalf,
Zimmerman, to discern God's will concerning the future of Diego Cuartas
this particular ministry. Mercy Pastor
Page 18
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
Vision...
We aspire to exemplify God‘s values
by treasuring each child as one who is
precious and uniquely designed by Him.
We desire and pray that every child
will be established in the knowledge of
God, grow to walk in His ways, and
love Him with all of his/her heart.
We seek to partner with parents to
nurture the faith of their children by
“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, training them to build shepherding
and whoever receives me, receives not me but the one who relationships with their children and be
sent me.” Mark 9:37 living examples of Christ-centered
lives.
2009 Highlights We aim to train adults and young
Leadership Growth people to be additional shepherds
in children‘s lives.
Tremendous growth in pre-school attendance required the organi-
zation of overseers for each age group. Overseers: Laurie Geremia,
Jane Caldwell, Esther Eisler, Deb Vandzura, and Janice Aseltine
Laurie Havens began the process of taking on Nursery Ministry Leadership
We finished the year with a total of 62 volunteer workers.
Events
January: 2nd Annual CM Retreat- Speaker: Pastor Nate ―Nurturing the Work of the Spirit in Children‘s Lives‖
March: Information/Recruiting Session for those interested in joining the CM team in September
Spring & Fall Parent Gatherings- Leaders: Sharon Howard and Greg Hill; Literature provided for parents
April: Desiring God Children‘s Ministry Conference- 11 Workers attended the conference in Minnesota
June: End of the Year Picnic- Jr. High students led the family activity time
July-August: Parent volunteers assisted in Sunday School classes
July: Game Night for family and friends
August: Family Camp Parent theme: ―Doing Life God‘s Way!‖; Family theme: ―Being a Circle of Bless-
ing‖ (Blessing comes when parents lead and children learn to obey)
August: Fall Orientation Orientation/Training for 13 teams of CM workers
Christmas Appreciation Dinner- Attendance: 90; Speaker: Pastor Nate; 5th and 6th grade classes acted as
servers
Other
Kim Medio and Kim Geremia continue to form worship teams to lead
the children on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings
Children‘s Ministry continues to host a table in the lobby on Sunday
mornings, serving to connect with parents and children on a weekly
basis.
Presc Thinking ahead: Children‘s Prayer Ministry
hool
(Accor R
o mail egistry
ding t
ing lis
Babi t) Please celebrate with us all of the things that God has done in the Pre-
es on
Infan the w school Ministry this past year, and pray for Him to continue to give us His
t nur ay
Walk se
er nu ry 6 heart for our children here and in the surrounding community. With joy,
2 yea r
r old sery 10 I give thanks and anticipate the work of His Spirit among us as we wait on
3 yea s 15
r old Him to continue directing Children‘s Ministry in 2010.
Pre-K s 8
Kind 19
er
Tota garten 19
l: Chris Laury
14
Pres Children‘s Ministry Coordinator (Ages 0-5)
choo 91
(Sund lV
ay & W oluntee
ednes r Wo
day): rkers
62
Page 19
We Believe That: Eleven CM workers were able to attend the De-
siring God Conference in Minnesota in May.
Each child is a unique creation of God, designed
to know and treasure him above all else. Through letters and conversation we were able
to prepare parents of children going into first
God has asked us to partner with parents in grade this year for staying in the Sunday service.
shepherding their children.
Attendance At Our Ministries:
We must raise-up workers who love God and
believe that he has called them to work with Wednesday night has a staff of 15.
children.
The number of children on the rosters for
What God Helped Us To Do This Year: Wednesday night ministry are: 25 in 1st and sec-
ond grade; 30 in 3rd and 4th grade; and 22 in
Kim Medio, Kim Geremia and Joan Hickman, 5th and 6th grade.
who oversee Children‘s Worship and Kid‘s On
A Mission ministries on Sunday and Wednesdays, Also, Wednesday night has several volunteers
continue to develop those programs and recruit that provide child care for parents who attend
additional helpers. Alpha, some Truth for Living classes, and Youth
Ministry Workers.
Our second Annual Children‘s Ministry Retreat
was held on January 16-17. On Sundays there have been between 30 and 40
children attending Creative Worship and Kid‘s
The Children‘s Ministry Table continues to be a On a Mission.
popular place for children and parents every Sun-
day. There are between 5 and 10 people who consis-
tently help with these Sunday programs.
Summer events featured our end of the year
picnic June 17, Game Night July 15 and Family I cannot say enough about how blessed I am to be
Camp July 28-31. able to oversee and train so many dedicated volun-
teers. I know parents appreciate all the time and ef-
Our Family Camp closing night activity featured a fort that goes into each aspect of these minis-
Community Outreach for parents and children. tries. These workers love children and are commit-
ted to obeying God‘s call on their lives.
The summer was also busy with recruiting teams
for Wednesday and Sunday programs, determin- Frank Geremia
ing curriculum needs, and orienting old and new
workers to our vision and procedures. Children‘s Ministry Coordinator (Grades 1-6)
Page 20
LFAC ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL REVIEW
“If our minds and hearts are fixed upon God, our emotions and our spirits will find proper expression in response to God, but
if our minds are fixed on anything other than God, no form of expression will be acceptable worship to God.”
Judson Cornwall, in Worship As Jesus Taught It
Ouch! I recently came upon this quote as I was preparing to write this report and couldn‘t help but
think of our high call to worship here at LFA. It is so easy, even for a worship leader, to feel distracted
and unfocused. Sound systems can be troublesome, people can become sick, or our Sunday morning
rituals can be disrupted with a frustrated child. However, our hearts MUST be fixed on our Almighty
God, the ―author and perfecter of our faith…‖ (Hebrews 12:2a). We choose how we express our
hearts to Him, so step out in faith and give it all to our Creator! This is why the Psalms are full of
David‘s declarative statements of worship (i.e. I will sing of your love and justice; to you, O Lord, I will
sing praise. Psalm 101:1 – one of many examples).
This has been a year of transition in worship ministry. Since July, I have been the new part-time worship
pastor here at LFA. I follow the venerable Charlie Caldwell, who has continued to support the worship
ministries here and support me in any way he can. We all were able to go down to Maryland for the
biannual WorshipGod conference last summer - and what a great time we had. I was introduced to the
Sovereign Grace ministries and the modern hymn writers that are actively reaching out to this genera-
tion with the theological implications of the cross and our redemption (Google them and check it out!).
We now have two worship teams that generally function independently of each other (we will be form-
ing a third in 2010). We have team schedules, which include our sound crew and PowerPoint folk, and
will be working to improve this system in the months to come. I cannot say enough regarding the talent,
the volunteered hours, and the positive attitudes among those who give of their abilities to the worship
team. Special thanks to Charlie Caldwell for his continued leadership, Donna Baruffi for becoming an
administrative assistant (as needed), Ryan Wokock, Joel Howard, all our Pastorate worship leaders, our
sound crew (especially Noel Ortiz for helping with the sound schedule), my PowerPoint helpers, Dave
Carter (technician extraordinaire), and Jenn Barnes (for helping with dramatic elements in our wor-
ship). Blessing on you and all the others I have not mentioned.
I will continue to cry out to God for wisdom as I lead our church into musical and creative forms of
worship in our celebration time. We will continue to incorporate traditional forms of worship (like I did
in celebrating Advent) with contemporary forms of worship. If you want to jump on board in worship
ministries and have a heart to fix upon Him, contact me at mgebhardt@lfachurch.org.
Finally, I want to thank all the men and women involved in our Usher Ministry and Greeting Ministry (all
the Pastorate folk!). As the ―gatekeepers‖ of our church, you have continued to help our crowd feel
connected. Your simple acts of service go a long way!
You are loved,
Mark Gebhardt
Worship Pastor
“Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his
gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love
endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” Psalm 100:3-5
Page 21
Senior High Ministry themselves, the last Wednesday night of
A year ago we were just beginning to move into a ‗4-branch‘ each month is ‗Bring a Friend Night‘ where
model of ministry for high school students in hopes of more we encourage the students to …you
effectively reaching specific audiences of students… guessed it, bring a friend with them! Jr. High will be travelling
An ‗Outreach‘ branch to connect with students to Lake Champion April 16-18 for district retreat this year.
we have not met yet
A ‗Link‘ branch to provide a bridge for those
students to become more familiar with who they
are and to discuss relevant topics with peers
A ‗Small Group‘ branch to provide a place for
students to take intentional steps in growing in “We desire to see
relationship with God
A ‗Leadership Development‘ branch for students
our Youth Ministry
who desire to be trained in ministry to and
among their peers
complementing
Today, we continue to walk out the development of each of and supporting
these branches, desiring to see greater clarity and maturity in
each. Outreach and Link events happen once every 4-6 what parents are
weeks; small groups take place weekly on Tuesday nights, and
our P.L.O.T. (Peer Leadership & Outreach Team) group meets already doing…”
once a month for training on a Sunday afternoon.
Sr. High will travel to Lake Champion March 26-28 for district
retreat; plans are also on the table for another summer white-
water rafting/paintball trip to Pennsylvania. Parents
Special thanks to Debbie Vandzura who spent many hours We desire to see our Youth Ministry complementing and sup-
serving Sr. High youth ministry leaders last year by coordinat- porting what parents are already doing with their children—as
ing babysitters for our children on Sunday afternoons. opposed to doing it for them. Thus, equipping parents will be
a priority that will be pursued with increasing measure over
Jr. High Ministry 2010. Our revamped youth website, when it is up and run-
Wednesday nights in the basement of Lincoln Ave. can get a ning, will include a page specifically designed for the purpose of
little crazy with a room full of Jr. High students to contend helping to equip parents of Jr. and Sr. High age chil-
with! We continue to do our best to help these students take dren. Watch for opportunities to attend age-specific parent
steps of owning their faith, as well as to help them bridge the gatherings as well. And I am always willing to meet with par-
gap between all the Bible knowledge they‘ve accumulated up ents, or parents and students together, to listen and help bring
to this point and their blossoming and new-found understand- perspective to this unique stage of the parenting journey called
ing of the world they are living in. These are crucial years in adolescence.
which important foundations are laid; we therefore spend sig-
nificant time on themes related to relationships, development Respectfully Submitted,
of habits for pursuing God, identity, and understanding of the Michael MacAdam
Gospel. As a way to help these students focus outside of Youth Pastor
Page 22 "I am the true vine, and my Father
is the vinedresser… every branch
that does bear fruit he prunes,
that it may bear more fruit… You
did not choose me, but I chose
you and appointed you that you
should go and bear fruit and that
your fruit should abide…”
Jesus
John 15:1-16
If I could choose a word that would characterize my ministry in 2009, I would choose the word LEADERSHIP. I am going to
need to use a few more words to explain what I mean, though. I am not primarily referring to my leadership. I am referring to
the fact that in 2009, new leaders emerged and existing leaders grew in maturity. To be clear, I have worked with leaders in
past years. I have counseled with them, planned with them, cared for them, and even equipped them in certain areas of minis-
try. However, this year stands out to me as a milestone of leadership development; something different has happened. There
was a new level of effectiveness and impact, or to put it in the "terms of Jesus" in John 15, an increased fruitfulness. Some led
missions trips, while others led their homes; some facilitated big events, while others taught classes; one led an inner city sum-
mer camp, while others taught seminars; some organized retreats, while others learned to shepherd; some preached sermons,
while others lead small groups. It has literally been fun to be part of God empowering them and releasing them into greater
levels of fruitful ministry. When I say fruitful, I don‘t only mean more people being ministered to; I mean an increase of the
movement of the Spirit of God changing lives in big and small ways through these leaders.
Another milestone for this year is the writing and implementation of the 7 Essentials of Discipleship. We ran several of
the courses throughout the year to make sure we are giving God‘s people clear opportunities to get equipped in the basics of
following Jesus. The material has been developed through the gifted teachers that God is raising up has already had an impact.
The Spirit of God has been moving, because these courses are not simply about transferring information, but they are about
people being equipped in following Jesus. We have seen people walking in financial freedom, living free and bold in their iden-
tity in Jesus, breaking patterns of sin that have plagued them for years, and even learning to meet God in the pages of Scrip-
ture. Thank you Larry Baruffi, Matthew Hartmen, Hap Hyson, Rich Irion, Mike Jelinek, Mike MacAdam, Lois Robinson, and
Rich Weatherby; as I look at 2009, I can see that God used each of you to help equip His people. This is a list of those who
served in the 7 Essentials of Discipleship, but does not include the many teachers that served in the other Truth For Living
courses, the Encounter, Formed by His Word, Men‘s Breakfast, or Ladies Nights. Thank you all for leading us into God‘s
Word that changes us.
I have one last area of ministry to report on from 2009 that I do not want to miss. This fall I had the privilege of working on
the Women’s Encounter. Many people stepped up to be part of the leadership for it: Eileen Hill, Dot Marketto, Sharon
Howard, Cindy Cuartas, all of the shepherds, servants, teachers, prayer team, logistical team, food team, registration team,
and Audio Visual team. This group of people moved graciously and sacrificially to lovingly lead those women to spend a week-
end with God. Thank you all for your work.
All of this work adds up to a lot of personal growth for me as a leader. I believe it is also
just a taste of what is to come. In other words, making disciples is not the end. We
believe that a disciple is designed to make more disciples. As we have entered 2010, the
need for making disciples who make disciples is emerging as a theme for our church. There-
fore, I anticipate that I will get more opportunities to see leaders empowered and released
“God has
to serve God‘s people. This year has solidified in my heart that God has a glorious design
for each life and it is my privilege as your pastor to labor under the leadership of the Holy
a glorious
Spirit to see that design bless others and glorify Jesus.
design
I am so thankful that the Father has given me the opportunity to be your pastor. 2009 was
nothing like I would have imagined. As my family and extended family struggled through this
for each
painful year, I want to thank you for loving us. It was something that we needed, and God
provided it through you.
life...” Your pastor,
Greg Hill
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these people have endured the rough Kingdom work. So, continue to lean
As I sit and stare at my computer economic state of our country and on our Lord for strength and guid-
screen, reflecting on this past year, I did not know where to turn due to ance, for he most assuredly will pro-
hope that what I write will encourage feelings of discouragement. One vide for all your needs. By using the
you, by what God is doing in and of the tools we have been able to use past two years as a gage to measure
through this ministry. Even though is the Good Sense ministry, which the effectiveness of this ministry, I am
this has been a tough year for all of looks at one's finances from a Biblical truly excited for this upcoming year
us in our church and community, and standpoint. The Good Sense ministry and how we will be challenged and
although we may have exhausted all has been quite successful by revealing yet grow from our experiences.
strength, and feel discouraged and how we steward the resources given
want to give up because that feels to us. As always, I thank you for all forms of
like the easiest and best action, we support you have given the deacon
can have hope. I want to challenge Looking at the ministry today, after ministry. Please keep us in your
you to look up to our Heavenly Fa- two years of service, I have seen ma- prayers, as we face new challenges
ther, for he knows our requests even turity. It was not through anything this year. Pray that we would con-
before we speak them. In the book that I or we did, but though the trials tinue to rest in our Lord for our
of Isaiah, there is encouragement for we experienced personally, as well as response to the circumstances. Also,
times like these; the prophet states: with the individuals and families with pray for the men that are beginning
whom we worked and coun- this year and are brand new to this
Have you not known? Have you seled. God has grown this ministry ministry, for strength, wisdom, and
not heard, that the everlasting God, to work for His glory, and that is patience.
Jehovah, the Creator of the ends of how I see each of the men involved in
the earth, does not grow weak nor this ministry. If it were not for the
weary? There is no searching of strength of God, they would not be
His understanding. He gives power able to carry out this mission. May God richly bless you,
to the weary; and to him with no Richard N. Weatherby Jr.
vigor; He increases strength. Even Out of this ministry we have assisted Head Deacon
the young shall faint and be weary, and counseled over 36 individuals and
and the young men shall utterly families. Our spending this year for
fall; but those who wait on Jehovah these families was just over $9,000,
shall renew their strength; they shall and God provided every cent of
mount up with wings as eagles; it. Even when a need arose and it did
they shall run, and not be weary; not look like the funds would be
they shall walk and not available God still provided. Whether
faint. Isaiah 40:28-31 to this ministry directly or through
other means, He provided. This
So how does that apply to deacon brings me back to my first point, that
ministry? We have entered into many even in the hard times that we all are
lives, both in and outside of our experiencing, the Lord has been faith-
church during 2009, where most of ful to help this ministry be effective in