By Published On: June 7th, 2017Categories: Announcements, Encouragement, Leader BlogComments Off on Elder Update From Gene Woodall
The blog this week is from one of our elders, Gene Woodall.  Gene has been serving as an elder for several years now and is going to take a respite from actively serving as an elder for a season.  His encouraging, thoughtful, prayerful presence will be greatly missed by our team.  Your prayers for him and for all our elders are so greatly needed and appreciated!
Thankful,
Larry


Dear North Wakers,

Over the last several months, I have been praying about whether or not to stay active as an elder at NW.  After a season of prayer, I feel led that the time to go inactive for a season is now.

Please understand that I fully and wholeheartedly support the NW leadership and truly care for and love all of the elders and all of you. Serving as Elder at NW has been a significant highlight of my life and I am honored to serve in this role with such God-loving men. I have learned a great deal in how to love better, care better, and serve better.  It is time, however, for me to take this time for my physical, mental, and spiritual health.

I certainly plan to remain an active and involved member of NW and continue to serve as God leads. I do plan to continue to lead a NW small group. I am excited about what God is doing in our small group and I am anticipating a deeper walk with God as we go forward. I covet your prayers as I continue in this role.

It is challenging for me to pen this note as I love the fellowship of the elders and will truly miss that but also know it is time for me to follow through on this decision.

I do want to take this opportunity to thank the NW body for the ongoing love and support you give the elders. As an elder, I am amazed at the number of challenging issues that confront us. It has been a joy, however, to see how carefully and prayerfully the elders seek to provide comfort and instruction as they pursue God’s best in every situation. The elders shepherd the body tirelessly and need restoration from time to time. Your willingness to set aside time for the staff elders to take sabbaticals is wonderfully generous and very much needed. They need this time for physical and mental restoration and solitude with God. Please, please commit to praying for the elders. Pray for wisdom, effectual counsel, and for individual protection for all these men as they seek to shepherd well.

I appreciate your understanding and covet your prayers as I make this change.

Anchored in Christ,

Gene Woodall