Yesterday was one of those bittersweet moments in life as it concluded a chapter for my family and I. It was my last Sunday on staff at The Gathering Place. A place I have worked at and served for the past ten years. A place where my family and I received healing, new life, new relationships, new direction and vision. I don’t think I have fully absorbed the moment but I am sure it will hit me fully in the coming days.

This new chapter of my life following Jesus involves …

Yesterday marked a very important milestone in my life. Pastor Sam announced to our congregation that at the end of the summer, I would be transitioning out from my role as executive pastor at The Gathering Place, to launch out on a business endeavor and to pursue the call of God on my life.
I am overwhelmed by the support of friends, family, the staff at TGP, Pastor Sam and our wonderful church family to the news of this transition. It did not come without much prayer, confirmation, soul-searching and the …

Yesterday was Human Trafficking Awareness day. Over the last several months it’s as if the Lord has been placing the travesty of human trafficking and the sex slave trade on my radar. This has got to be one of the main things that the Church of Jesus needs to lead the charge in — ending this horrific modern day slavery.
I have been praying about how I can do my part in raising awareness and getting involved. It is estimated that there are 1.8 million children exploited in the commercial …

Took the family along with a couple of nieces and a nephew to see The Tale of Desperaux last night. What a powerful story of an unassuming hero, how we are taught to fear things, the impact of wrong decisions, and most importantly, redemption and forgiveness. I love movies that give me opportunities to teach life principles to my little girl.
One of my favorite lines in the movies is “ A hero doesn’t appear until the world really needs one” Powerful! Take the family and go see this one. …

My little angel turned four today. She is an absolute joy to Bethza and me. I can’t wait to see how her future unfolds. She came as a miracle to our lives and we know she is destined for greatness. Thank you God for the privilege of helping to shape her life. Arielle, I will live my life showing you how to follow Jesus.

Came across this picture on the web of the closing session with Rick Warren where he was praying for everyone that responded to the call. I think I have located where I was standing in that catalyzing moment when I accepted and embraced God’s call upon me to create a missional community through church planting.

What a way to close the Exponential Conference with Rick Warren. I have always respected Rick but that has grown over the years. There is such a genuine love and authenticity to his faith and the way he communicates, especially with leaders and pastors. His message could best be titled “Life-lessons for Longevity.”
Some points he shared:
- Never stop growing personally. Growing churches require growing pastors. You can’t delegate your faith and personal growth.
- Pay attention to your family. Obey the sabbath. Build your family before you build the …

Happy 3rd Birthday Arielle! You are the joy of our lives. We are so blessed to have you in our lives. Wow, it is amazing how quickly time flies but each year gets better. It is awesome to see the hand of the Lord upon you at such an early age. I can’t wait to see what an amazing future God has in store for you.