A Blessed Ministry Journey

I announced to my Church last night that I will officially retire from Senior Pastor duties this coming April. I must say that I have never witnessed such an emotional time as that which took place at the end of the service. I can relate to Paul’s experience when he left Ephesus, after his ministry there. “And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,” – Acts 20:37

I conclude 25 years of ministry at Smith Grove Baptist Church and do so totally believing that my life and family have been enriched beyond what words can describe! Deep lasting friendships will remain forever. I feel that there is no greater enriching ministry than the pastoring of a local church. Many years of a Pastoral ministry results in far more than a Pastor and Congregation. It develops into a Pastor and family! Deep rooted friendships are established and members become, literally, an enlarged family!

I find these days to be rather “emotionally charged” days but guess this is part of the territory when making such a momentous change after so many years. I have been blessed to preach the Word of my Blessed Lord to a precious congregation! Please pray for Carol and myself as we pass through this season of life ministry!

I, as a Gospel Preacher, have no intention of quitting preaching. I am simply praying and trusting the Lord to continue to use me in preaching capacities and will be open to preaching opportunities and pulpit supply work, as God directs.

I love you, Smith Grove Family, and thank you for the wonderful journey with you and look forward to the time coming when “earthly seasons” will no longer affect our journey together. I retire a “rich man”! “The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” – Proverbs 10:22

Pastor Chuck – 8/14/2023