The Lead Pastor Among Us
Have you ever wondered how our new Lead Pastor, Andrew Middlekauff will function on the elder team here at LTCC? Perhaps you have thought about it in the past, but need a refresher. I am here to help.
LTCC is led by a plurality of elders and the Lead Pastor is the “First Among Equals” on that team. To help us understand what this means, I’d like to direct your attention to Appendix B of our By-Laws found on page 17, for additional clarity. Feel free to read that in its entirety now. It’s not long…I’ll wait ;)
Specifically, I want to highlight what it means for Andrew to be “among” equals.
“Among the Elders, the Lead Pastor organizes, prioritizes, and unites the Team. The Elders recognize the necessity of being led, while the Lead Pastor understands that he needs the gifts and unity of the Team to glorify God and carry out the mission of the church. The Lead Pastor and Elders operate in humble, mutual submission among one another.”
On August 22nd, the elders will be going on an overnight retreat to learn more about how our personalities and gifts can function well together. Our sessions will be led by Pastor Ryan Wood with Standing Stone Ministry. Standing Stone’s Mission is to “guide ministry leaders into healthy ministry.” We believe this event will help us remain united and strengthened in healthy gospel ministry moving forward.
To strengthen our bond and unity further, we are committing to monthly 1x1 accountability meetings with a different member of the team each month. In these meetings, we will ask questions to one another about our lives, including specific moral convictions and spiritual formation issues. This will help us keep watch on ourselves and glorify God as we carry out the mission of the church.
The Apostle Paul, speaking to the elders at Ephesus says, “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” (Acts 20:28)
Paul instructs young Pastor Timothy, “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” (1 Timothy 4:16)
Please know the elders are committed to Christ-like character and Scriptural fidelity. We would ask for your prayers, as we pray also for you. Please pray for unity as we seek the Holy Spirit’s leading for our church. Pray that we would be good examples for you and that the gospel would bear much fruit in our midst. To God be the glory.
Ministry Minute
FACILITIES/INTERIM COUNCIL CHAIR
Nick Jacques
Deacon
Just as we have recently seen with the Middlekauff family joining our church family, God is actively leading individuals into various ministries and roles to ensure the ongoing work of His kingdom. Regardless of our age, background, past experiences, or resources, God desires to work through each of us to bring Him glory and to help more people become disciples of Christ.
Within the Body of Christ, every person has an essential role to play. When one member steps away from a role, it opens the door for another to use their unique gifts and talents for the good of the whole body.
When God calls us to a new path, we have a choice: to resist and remain where we are, or to step out in faith, trusting in His plan for our lives. There are many opportunities to serve here at LTCC right now.
Discovering God’s specific calling for you requires prayer, studying the Bible, and seeking counsel from trusted mentors and spiritual leaders. As we respond to God’s leading with open hearts, we contribute to a vibrant and growing church that reflects His love and fulfills His mission!