Hello friends,
In June, when my resignation as campus pastor at Granger Community Church Elkhart became known, (previous post) many of you asked about our future plans. At that time and for the ensuing weeks, I was diligent in my response:
“There are many things I could do, there are many things I’m interested in, but the real question for me is: What is it that I MUST do in this next run of my life?”
This idea of what I must do was not a new one. It had been rolling around in the recesses of my mind for a good little while. But on June 6th, when a decision was made that ultimately led to my transition off of the Granger team, I was suddenly having to confront what was next with very real and sobering consideration.
Since I was a young boy, I have had the distinct impression that God was calling me to leadership in the local church. Time and again this has been confirmed. Being in my mid 50’s, I can look back on many years of life and see the trajectory I’m on and I believe I’ve followed that call – whether in business, in a church staff role or as a volunteer. So, in August, as Cody and I were driving into Elkhart, he turned to me and, like so many others, asked the question, “But really Dad, what are you going to do next?” Without hesitation I replied, “Well, if I don’t start a church, I know I’ll always wonder what might have been.” This clarity was surprising and yet, so reassuring. As per usual, my wife Brenda was ahead of me in her belief about what was next. I’m filled with gratitude for my familial support as we step into this next phase of life. You guys, I’m a pastor, leader, communicator, an artist of sorts and today my life experiences and calling have brought me to a time and place where Brenda and I, along with an incredible core team of leaders and influencers, are ready to announce that…
RESTōR.church is launching in Goshen Indiana in 2018!
We’re incredibly excited about the days ahead and want to personally invite you to join us at the Goshen Theater on Main Street in downtown Goshen for pre-launch gatherings on: November 8 and 29 at 6:30 PM and on December 17 at 5:30 PM
Give a follow on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and stay up-to-date on the latest happenings.
We love our community and are excited to make this announcement and to invite you to join us.
Best Wishes Gene and Brenda on this next season of ministry.
Blessings to you my friend! I wish you God’s greatest blessings, clarity and confirmation as you move forward. Way to follow the calling of your heart.
I shared this with my FB page. As I said before, wish you the best, praying for an awesome future! You will always have a place in our hearts. I am happy to see you staying with what you have shown to be a passion–sharing Jesus. Am excited to see how God works in your life and so many others. You have such a great story, just don’t shy away from sharing how God moves in your life, THAT is the most powerful way of sharing Him with others. People need to know you and your family to feel like they belong on the same path. Many blessings as you embark on this new journey. Please remember us as some of the many, many people who have been encouraged in our own walks.
Let me know if I can help you. You’re in our prayers. Check out http://www.newthing.org. New Thing exists to help church planters win.
Thank you Rob! I’ll check it out.
Excited for you, Brenda and the new team at Restor. Go have fun and heal some hearts.
Michael and I are so grateful you listen to your heart, and God’s calling. We are pleased to join and support you & Brenda in this endeavor. May the God of Love surround and encompass Restor.
Whhooohoooo!!!!
How cool is this, way to go Gene & may God bless & encourage you & Brenda!
Thanks Tim!
Carry on brother! May the lord continue to lead and guide you and Brenda!
May God bless this next journey Gene! Exciting news –
Enjoy this time of preparing in anticipation of what God will do.
So excited that Carl and I will be up north and able to attend your December gathering!
Love you guys!
I am so excited to follow you and Brenda..both of you have had an unspoken impact on my life…Thank you. God is Good