Leap Year #1 - The Suffolk West's in February

You’re getting this email because you have encouraged Eileen and I as we have been discerning God's new direction for us. Thank you! Many have said, “Keep us informed along the way.” So I thought an email-blog would be best.

I met with Bishop Kammerer on February 15th. The purpose of the meeting was simply to inform her of our new direction and to seek guidance. I asked if she thought there was a need for a new evangelist in the Virginia Conference. She answered, "I think there's probably not just a need for one more, but maybe three or four more." Good sign.
I shared the concept of "Theology on Tap", something like this . . . we go to the local bar and find out which night is slowest for business. Then the proposal: We'll invite people to the bar on Tuesday nights and we'll give a presentation that will turn into a conversation around Jesus and the Scriptures. Our presentation isn't heavy handed or pushy, just a conversation. Alcohol isn't one of our topics, but if we're asked, we'll share that the Scriptures speak against drunkenness, but not drinking. Our Catholic brothers and sisters are using this approach in different parts of the country seemingly with great success. Again, Bishop Kammerer was good with it.

This week I met with the Board of Evangelism for the Virginia Conference. The interview went well and I was given a ‘thumbs up’. My friend Brian Sixby, also a pastor in Suffolk is the chair of this group. One of the highlights for me was when one of the pastors interviewing me discovered there was no salary. We made eye contact and with a puzzled look he said, “How are you gonna get paid?” I leaned forward and said, “I’m just about to take up an offering!” Good guy, he gave me his card afterwards and told me to call him.

So thanks for your encouragement and prayers. I’m also in the middle of setting up the required 501(c)(3). The next interview is March 25th with the Board of Ordained Ministry. The goal is to be appointed as a ‘general evangelist’ in the Virginia Conference. This will give me the freedom to be the ‘missionary evangelist’ that I believe God is calling me to!

1 John 3:1 How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.