I had retired two years previously from my first career, and had enjoyed being home and taking it easy. My church lay leadership responsibilities were over and I had no specific plans for the future. All of that was radically changed when the Lord called me to join the pastoral staff at FBC.

I was raised in a Christian family that was heavily involved in church leadership. I also became involved, and serving the church was a major function in my life. This continued when we came to San Mateo in 1966. FBC has been our only home church here, and the congregation is part of our extended family.

Our three children were raised in this church and were tutored by loving Christian teachers and youth leaders. Their continuing walk with the Lord reflects the influence of these wonderful people. Our closest and dearest friends are those whom we have known in this church.

This was the first time I felt called into the ministry, and I didn’t take it lightly. Being called was not my personal ambition; I feel the Lord has probably not called anyone who goes into the ministry simply because of personal desire. And He did not invite me into the ministry; He ordained me. Responding was a matter of obedience to His will, not just an opportunity to help out at church.

Being in the ministry is, at best, very difficult. A caring pastor is there to comfort, encourage, teach and admonish the flock as they deal with the various issues in their lives. He also works along side laypeople that have diverse perspectives and priorities, and he needs to remain humble and loving in his relationship with them.

I thank you for accepting me as a pastor, and for helping me make the transition to being a staff member. It has been a joy and privilege to serve the Lord and this church family, and to grow in my relationship with Him. Give God the glory for whatever went well in my ministry, and I’ll claim responsibility for the rest.

And now He is calling me to move on to the next phase of my walk with Him. Whatever or wherever that may be is in His hands. Life is so much more enjoyable responding to His plan instead of trying to carry out my own. Having no personal plans eliminates personal disappointments. My decision is to simply follow His direction; that’s my source of joy and contentment.

Thank you for the Christian love you have demonstrated to our family in so many ways throughout the years. We love you and pray the Lord will use this church mightily to glorify Him and His Kingdom.