Words are difficult to come by, as I find myself writing the last newsletter column as the pastor of Bible Baptist Church. So many thoughts fill my mind as I look back over the last 22 years of ministry here in Wilmington. However, instead of reminiscing about the events, accomplishments, and history of the church, I think I would rather use this space to give thanks for this wonderful journey. First, I want to thank the Lord for the miraculous work He has done here in this small town. When we began in 1995, I had no idea of how He was going to bless this work. I knew He would do it – I just didn’t know how much!! He has been faithful to guide us, to protect us, to provide for us, and to prosper us. He has strengthened us in times of trial, comforted us in times of sorrow, and led us each step of the journey. God is good all the time, and all the time, God is good! Second, I want to thank Theresa for her unwavering faith and support throughout our ministry here. I sincerely want our congregation to know what a wonderful pastor’s wife she is. Strong, but silent; Quiet, but not shy; she has made it possible for me to do what I have needed to do to pastor this great church family. By keeping our family grounded, filling in for me when I couldn’t be there, and giving me the encouragement and support I have needed in the hard times, she has been a great example of a pastor’s wife, and as the “first-lady” of Bible Baptist Church. She loves this church as much as I do, and I appreciate her willingness to follow the Lord, even when we don’t understand it all. I also want to thank my children, Kenton, Kaden, and Kerrigan. It is not easy living life with hundreds of people watching you grow up, but they have done well in this ministry, and I pray that the people of Savannah will treat them with the same love and kindness that you have shown to them. This has been the only church they have ever known, and it will be an adjustment for them to learn a new church and a new way of life. I would like to also thank the tremendous ministry staff we have here. Every one of them is special to me, and I certainly acknowledge their contributions in making BBC what it is today. Without their servant spirit, their unity of purpose, and their heart for this congregation, we wouldn’t be where we are today. They are a wonderful team, and I know they will do extremely well under the leadership of Pastor Josh Dixon. Josh is not just my successor, he is my associate, my “Timothy”, and my friend. He has been with me in ministry for 16 years, and I have total confidence and peace that he is the man for this job. I believe God will use him in a mighty way, as the people of BBC follow his leadership and example of faith. He and Misty love this ministry and this church family. And, last but not least, I want to thank you. It has been a blessing and a privilege to serve as your pastor for over two decades. Your love, support, and care for me and my family is beyond compare. The deacons have always made sure that our family was well-provided for, and we have lacked for nothing. The congregation has been overwhelming in their loyalty and protection of the pastor and his family. You are an awesome example of how a church should take care of her leaders, and I am humbled when I think of all this church has done for us over the years. Thank you for sharing life with us. We have celebrated many occasions together. We have shed many tears together. We have climbed high mountains, and we have crossed some rivers – but we did it all together. Not once did I not feel the prayers, love, and support of this church family. As the song says – “thank you for giving to the Lord – I am a life that was changed”. You have changed our lives, and though our address will soon be Savannah, Georgia, our hearts will always be with Bible Baptist Church of Wilmington. Your Friend,