This first post is a little bit about the ministry my family and I are involved in. I hope it will give you a bit of a picture of where we’re coming from as we discuss topics around parenting, relationships and life in future posts and videos.
I’ve been the Children’s Pastor at Gateway Christian Ministries since June 2002. Spending time with all of the kids is great, and I have really enjoyed working to build a strong Children’s Ministry in our church. What I really love is interacting with families. In December 2009 our leadership team began a process of making some important changes to transition our church in some great ways. Chantal (my wife) and I were excited about what was happening, but really started to question where we were supposed to fit. It’s funny how after doing something for a number of years it becomes part of your identity, or almost even becomes your identity. Thinking about the possibility of not leading our Children’s Ministry was a scary idea, but we became convinced that God wanted us to do something else. We were unsure if there would be another place for us on the pastoral staff at the church at this time, but we were ready to accept that there might not be. When we talked to the rest of the church leadership, it quickly became clear that there was a different role for us. This new role as Pastor to Families really fits with our passion, and is something that I believe is more suited to the areas that we are gifted in and that God has called us to. We’re excited about our new focus in the church, which is the aspect of Children’s Ministry that we felt the most called to and now we are being released to focus on it more! God is Great!
We’re still just getting started on this new ministry focus and seeking God for what it will look like. I already feel refreshed and a new excitement for ministry knowing that we are doing what God is calling us to do. My identity as the Children’s Pastor has changed, but my identity as a child called and loved by God is as strong as ever.
Jordan
Jordan; what a testimony on paper. The road that God has you walking along has had many changes in such a short time. I can only imagine how you would be curious as to where God has you going next. You are truly an amazing man; you have an amazing wife and God is bringing a wonderful family into your journey very quickly. Your role as a husband; father and Pastor will all be worked out with the power of the Holy Spirit in you. You will be amazed at the excellence that God is going to be using you to bring to the Gateway family.
Your life has a purpose; stay focused on God and He will be sure to work it all out in His own perfect way.
Change can be very healthy for each of us; God doesn’t want us to be too comfortable each day of our lives. You will discover that as your family grows. Just when you think your children are at the perfect age; and you could just squeeze them. They change!! Then you have to get use to the current season; to prepare for the next one coming. It is something that happens and we can only trust God that He will help us through it.
Just remember; your a child of God with a purpose. To advance His kingdom; do it with excellence and all for His glory!
God Bless you and your family
Jacky