We are continuing with the Pastor-in-Residence program and Community Evangelical Free Church in Elverson, PA. It has now been almost five months, and we are getting to the place where we start, however tentatively, to think about what is next. Recently we both took a vocational test called the PRO-D, and over the next few weeks our PIR group will work through the results of that with Priscilla and me.
What is our PIR group? It is three couples from CEFC, chosen by CEFC's elders, to walk with us through this time. We meet on average twice a month to go through a handbook of questions intended to help us process my resignation, to encourage repentance, and to reflect on how we seek God to change us, by his Word and Spirit, with a view toward possible future ministry. The PRO-D part of the program is to assist us in assessing where our gifts are, so as to find a fit service in Christ's kingdom.
Let me say, our PIR group has been most excellent. Every pastor, and in fact every Christian, ought to have such a support group. Pastors (and Christians in general) are usually busy giving themselves out, and it is difficult to find people to whom they can pour out their hearts. For Priscilla and me, too, it is unfamiliar territory having a group of people so very committed to us; but it is refreshing. It is very humbling how these three couples are pouring themselves into our lives, with dedication and sacrifice. God has proven himself faithful and good through these brothers and sisters. I hope you have a small group at your church that is like this PIR group for us. We are very blessed by this group--and they insist they also are blessed to be a part of it. God is truly extravagant in his goodness.
Meanwhile, to provide for our needs, I am working on my electrical business. It is slowly growing. Our needs are met, though not in such a way that we forget we depend on our heavenly Father.
If you desire to help us in the PIR program, I'd be glad to do any work for you that you can use, provided you live close enough for that. If you would like to help beyond that, CEFC is accepting donations for our PIR program. You can send your contribution to "CEFC", with "PIR program" written in the memo line, to: Community Evangelical Free Church, 52 S Brick Lane, Elverson, PA 19520. All contributions are tax-deductible.
Thanks for your time and your prayers!
