I am excited to share that I am beginning a new chapter in my life and ministry. My wife, Cassidy, and I have spent around 6 months praying and seeking God on where He is leading our family.
I've been a Student Pastor for 12 years and have enjoyed those years of pouring into the lives of students. I've had the privilege of teaching, leading mission trips and helping disciple and make disciples of students over the years. It was a tough decision but, after spending many days in prayer and seeking answers in God's Word, I sensed His leading to be open to a new chapter in ministry.
I didn't know what my next step would be or how God would want to use me. All I have ever done is student ministry! Cassidy and I went through a season of exploring church planting. I talked with seasoned church planters and some that were just starting out. My pastor, Ron Sylvia, is a church planting expert. And I knew if I was going to get the best advice and wisdom, I needed to talk to him.
We started a conversation about church planting and I had his blessing and encouragement to pursue it. I respected my pastor so much through this process and it was his own passion for church planting and my experience at Church @ the Springs that truly intrigued and inspired me to do it. But, I also wanted to make sure, 100%, that God wanted me to step out and start a new work. After spending a month or so in prayer with Cassidy, we didn't have a full calling to plant. I went back to Ron and shared that we felt God saying to stay and possibly help our church in a new way. He responded by letting me know he had been praying that God would grow us here at Church @ The Springs. And in that moment, it was evident that God was leading us to stay.
So after months of prayer, discussion and wise advice, I am excited to share that I am moving into the role of Teaching Pastor at Church @ The Springs and will help oversee small groups and missions. My heart is full as I think about the opportunity I have to continue the mission here in Ocala of leading people to Christ and helping them influence the world.
I want to share a few of my life verses that have shaped my calling in ministry:
“ I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.”
“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”
“But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.”
Here's a video of my interview with Ron at "Night of Worship" about my transition in ministry: