Dear Friends:
It is so wonderful to be writing you from Ohio! Diane and I are looking forward to serving the South-Central Ohio District and to getting to know you. Our call to serve here has been confirmed over and over again, and we are most grateful for the ways the Lord has led.
This weekend we will join our Nazarene sisters and brothers in South Texas at their District Ministry Team Retreat and look forward to joining our pastors and spouses at Easton next weekend for our own Pastors and Spouses Retreat. Dan and Denise Boone will be joining us, and Dr. Boone’s messages are always inspiring and encouraging.
I want to express appreciation for some folks who have served the district well the last few years. Dr. Sam and Jill Barber are a breath of fresh air wherever they serve, and their impact here in South Central Ohio has been positive and encouraging. We are grateful that they will continue to be part of our district family as they provide leadership to Global NDI.
Pastor Christy Robison has also served well as Executive Administrator. Christy began a new role at Ohio Christian University this week. She has graciously agreed to assist us in the transition, and for that we are grateful. She and Justin have also transitioned from pastoring at Obetz but will continue to be active members of the district.
One of the ways I’m hoping to quickly connect with our pastors is through “Coffee & Conversation,” which will take place across the district at ten different times during October and November. We will start in the southern part of the district on October 9 and 10, meeting with pastors on the Portsmouth, Ironton, Jackson, and Meigs-Gallia Zones.
We are a family of believers, filled with the Spirit, leaning into the adventure of following Jesus and being Christlike disciples. Starting churches, strengthening churches, and developing leaders will be key components of our mission.
It has seemed like October would never arrive, but now itis right around the corner! I am looking forward to the privilege of serving with you.
Warmly Yours in Christ,
Eddie Estep