24 Jun 2007
This month, instead of using this space for my usual article, I have given Mike Nichols the opportunity to share his heart with us as he, Sarah and their sons prepare to leave. We are saddened by this decision, but love this family and therefore we wish them the best, and all of God’s blessings in the days ahead.
To our Church Family,
The past four years of ministry with this congregation has been an exceptional experience. GCC is a body full of life and coupling that with its desire to grow has truly been rewarding. The people involved with the children's ministry made growth possible and they truly have been a joy to work for. I guess to sum up the last fours years of my ministry I would say, "God is awesome and He is always faithful to His faithful people."
So why leave? This is the question I've been asked the most and the two main reasons are a desire to be closer to family and to live in a smaller town. My family and I will be moving to Colorado where we will be closer to my family and living in a smaller town. There are some wonderful churches in that area that have experienced some great growth that Sarah and I both plan to be involved with in a laymen's fashion. We are very excited about this change and pray that this time of transition will be as smooth as possible for everyone, especially the children at GCC. The staff is committed to making sure that the ministries of GCC will continue on. Along with the grace of God, you are what makes the ministries of GCC successful. Our usual Sunday events (Sunday school, nursery and children's worship) will continue and plans are being made to continue the ministries of Friends Club and playgroup this fall. Though it may take on a different look or approach, the ministry will continue. I ask that you continue to pray for the following: outreach of the children in your neighborhoods, the elders and staff as they continue their search for new staff, and for my family as we complete our ministry here at GCC and move to Colorado.
May God continue to bless this body with each member doing its part. The story in Mark 10:13-16 truly exemplifies the importance of ministering to children. As Jesus' own disciples rebuked people for bothering Jesus with their children, "Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.' And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them." May you be the voice for the children and support their importance in the kingdom of God.
Not Hindering the Little Ones,
Mike Nichols and family
Transition is never easy, both for those leaving, and those left behind. Continue to pray for Mike as he fulfills his responsibilities through the summer. Pray for the Nichols as they make this change, and for all that God has before them. Pray for us as we continue the children’s ministries of this church, and for servants to step into the gap to insure our continued excellence in this area. Pray for God’s leading as the staff and elders seek new leadership for the Education Ministry.
Mike and Sarah’s last Sunday with us will be August 12. We are planning a reception in their honor during the Sunday School hour where we will have one last opportunity to express to them our appreciation and love.
May God bless us all in the days ahead,
Denis Whittet
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