Dear SBPC Family,

It’s my pleasure to introduce to you two new staff members who will give leadership in two very significant areas of ministry in the life of our church.

Billy Jack Blankenship has accepted the position of Associate Minister of Children and Families. On behalf of the hiring committee chaired by Christine Willems, I can share with confidence that this year long process has been one of prayerful discernment and trusting God’s timing. Billy Jack’s gift of leadership, his heart for children, his organizational skill, his exuberant personality and his ten years of experience in camps and conferences make him the ideal candidate to lead our dynamic ministry and outreach to children and their families.

Billy Jack’s start date is May 6th, allowing him to fully transition responsibilities at Forest Home, complete his semester in graduate school and start refreshed before we dive into Kids Games in August. He will report directly to me.

Stew Montgomery has been promoted to be the Associate Minister of Students and Families, effective immediately. Over the last two and a half years, he has served as the Director of Junior High Ministries, building a solid team of adult volunteers, establishing small groups with committed leaders, making Wednesday nights a welcoming and hospitable place for junior high students, and challenging students to dive deep into mission with 30-Hour Famine and F.O.A.M. (Fringe On A Mission).

We believe it is a sign of health of our church and staff that we are able to hire from within our community. Stew will transition this spring from Junior High to Senior High and oversee a new Director of Junior High and our Student Ministry Interns. He will report to Josh Kerkhoff, our Next Generations Pastor. By June of 2009, Stew will have relationships with all high school classes creating relational continuity between Junior High and High School ministries.
 
God has been faithful to provide two individuals who will provide a continuum of spiritual development from birth through high school. Both have the title of Associate Minister, acknowledging their pastoral (yet non-ordained) role in spiritual leadership. Both are working on masters degrees in theology and will participate in onsite leadership development.

Join me in giving thanks to God for these two men, and praying for each of their transitions.

In Christ,
Mike McClenahan
Senior Pastor / Head of Staff