Hello from Mark

Friends,

It is my great joy and privilege to serve as your new pastor here at First Church. It is an answer to our prayers!

Robin and I and our kids feel so blessed to be a part of your church family... a fellowship rich in history, beginning the week after the Oklahoma land run in April 1889, and with an amazing future ahead, as well!

This time last week we were tirelessly packing all our worldly belongings (and I mean ALL) to move to our "new" home. What a difference a week can make! We finished packing--with the help of some good friends--and made our way to our closing last Friday afternoon. We closed just before the weekend on a house we had contracted for just one day earlier! God is good! As a friend told me recently, "God is rarely early, but He is never late!"

Thanks to each of you who has welcomed us so kindly. We've enjoyed "unpacking" help at the church and at home, lots of great meals and wonderful desserts (you all really can cook!), and the opportunity to get to meet several of you personally.

We've found worship to be very rich and meaningful these past weeks--celebrating the dedication of gorgeous new Worship banners, and new pew Bibles, too! We're looking forward to sharing in a great week of VBS this coming week, as well. Nanci and crew are doing a great job!

Change is exciting and challenging. In this time of transition, thanks so much for your prayers, presence in worship, and your great patience! We love and appreciate you so much already! Thanks to each of you who are wearing your name tags too. It really helps us, and is an act of hospitality to our guests, as well. I overheard one young woman saying, "I really like our new pastor." I just wanted to say to her, "Thanks, Honey!"

Blessings! Looking forward to seeing you this Sunday--if not sooner!

Yours in Christ,
Mark

5 comments (Add your own)

1. Daniel and Marla Jones wrote:
Pastor,
Daniel and I love all the scripture that was used on Sunday. Not only do we love it, we need it. Sean Walker used as many as you did in Sunday School, so between the two of you, we got more scripture in one day than we have in probably one year!
Your message was so uplifting. It is something we can use. We also are so glad you have a sense of humor! Love it, love it, love it!!! Thanks again and you and yours will be in our prayers.
Daniel and Marla\

June 21, 2007 @ 4:01 PM

2. TMorton wrote:
Ditto to what Daniel and Marla said. Thanks!
Terri

June 21, 2007 @ 9:45 PM

3. Debbi Morton wrote:
When I met you marathon weekend, I had the feeling that we were going to be blessed with you as our pastor. As hard as it was to see Stan & Susan leave, I knew your spiritual leadership was a gift from God to all of us at First Church.

I am looking forward to getting to know you, Robin, and the kids, and serving with you providing media during worship services and any other events.

Glad you are here!
Deb

June 22, 2007 @ 11:08 PM

4. Peggy Cody wrote:
I love the scriptural content of your messages and your delivery style. Your sense of humor and personal examples add a very pleasant touch. I am uplifted and blessed every Sunday. I can tell you have a sincere heart for the Lord because His love shines through your contageous smile.

We have gone through a rough three year transition as God pruned our vines preparing us for renewal. Stan had a very difficult job to step into. He and Susan became God's instrument to achieve His will during this transition period. Now I feel God has chosen you and Robin to lead us into the growing season and then to harvest. I'm excited about the future of First Church. I think we're on the verge of a spiritual explosion!

Thanks for accepting God's calling to come to First Church! We love you guys.

Blessings,

Peggy Cody

July 10, 2007 @ 4:45 PM

5. Gloria Carmichael wrote:
Pastor Mark after talking to you briefly after Admin Council meeting, I now know you are truly a Pastor (not just by title)but truly from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Thank you mighty man of valor. In Christ.

July 24, 2007 @ 9:41 AM

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