Fall 2024 Schedule

Dear First Family,

Life often brings unexpected setbacks that challenge us and disrupt our plans. However, today, I want to offer a simple but powerful truth: setbacks do not always mean starting over. They are not the end of our journey but rather a part of the path God has carefully designed for us.

Consider the Israelites as they fled Egypt under Moses' leadership. In Exodus 14, they faced the seemingly insurmountable Red Sea. With the Egyptians pursuing them and the sea ahead, they were tempted to despair. Yet, Moses boldly declared: “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today” (Exodus 14:13).

Some may call me an eternal optimist—and perhaps that’s true! But my optimism is rooted in a firm belief that even in the face of challenges, God presents us with new opportunities to witness His deliverance.

In particular, I am excited about the new possibilities unfolding in our worship and music ministries. Though we may encounter setbacks, I believe God is opening doors for growth, creativity, and a deeper connection with Him through our worship. These moments can become invitations to experience His grace in fresh and profound ways.

I’m especially thrilled to share a special opportunity ahead: from November 11-13, our church will host the state convention, BGAV Annual Meeting, and we have been asked to lead the opening night of worship! On that Monday evening, I will have the privilege of preaching, and our children’s, student, and adult choirs will lead the state meeting in songs of praise. This is a remarkable opportunity to set the tone and vision for the meeting, and we pray that the Lord will move in mighty ways.

Looking further ahead to December, our choirs will continue to faithfully lead us in worship, as we celebrate the season together. On Monday, December 16, we will host our First Family Christmas, featuring a special Christian artist for a Christmas concert. Then, on Christmas Eve, we will gather for a beautiful service of Carols and Candlelight—choir robes may even make a special appearance!

I also want to update you on our Worship Director Search Team. Our Personnel Committee Chair has reconvened the team, and they will be holding their first meeting this week. During this time, we will prayerfully ask ourselves important and challenging questions as we make plans for moving forward. They will be able to share additional information at our upcoming Quarterly Business Meeting on Sunday, October 13 at 6p on Zoom.

In the interim, here is our leadership structure for Music and Worship:

• Don Wingard – Interim Director for Music and Worship
• Alydia Wingard– Ministry Assistant to the Director of Music and Worship
• Carol Mills – Director for Children’s Choirs
• Don Wingard – Director for Youth Choir
• Cynthia Marr – Orchestra Director
• Deborah Lloyd – Organist and Accompanist
• Mark Milroy – Director of Audio, Visual and Lighting

As we continue this journey together, let us press forward in faith, trusting that God is working in every detail, using all things for our good and His glory. I eagerly anticipate the ways He will move among us in the days ahead.

With faith and great expectation,

Robert Stephens
Senior Pastor