November 16, 2023

Dear Central Church,

One of my favorite worship songs begins this way, “We’ve waited for this day, we’ve gathered in this place, calling on your name…” This Sunday is a day that has been in the making for more than two years! The dreams, vision, and plans to remodel the sanctuary have all come together and this Sunday, we will dedicate it to the glory and worship of God. Remember: it’s one service only at 10:30am and will include all of our congregations.

We began this journey with a challenge to recognize that it’s “our turn now” to step out in faith and make big investments God can use to accomplish his mission in the world. I’m thankful to be part of a church with an 83 year history of people stepping out in faith and obediently giving God something to bless. This Sunday we will celebrate what God is doing through THIS generation of people at Central and begin what I believe is going to be a fruitful and faithful chapter of ministry.

I’m excited to welcome my friend, Dr. Filimao Chambo, as our guest speaker. Fili was elected as a General Superintendent in the Church of the Nazarene in 2017, and since then he and Samantha have made Central their home church. As a GS, he travels the world providing strategic direction and timely encouragement to district leaders, pastors and congregations.

Our district superintendent, Dr. Eddie Estep, will also be with us for this special day. His support and encouragement throughout this process has been invaluable.

Finally, I’m so thankful for the leadership of Dr. Sam and Jill Barber. This vision was birthed in his heart many months ago, and God has opened the door for the Barbers to be with us on Sunday. We look forward to reconnecting with them and celebrating what God has done.

We truly have “waited for this day.” The chorus of that song goes on to say, “Open up the heaven, we want to see you.” That’s my prayer for this new worship space: we want to gather as the people of God and see the glory of the Lord.

Until He’s Finished,

Pastor Mark