There is no such thing as a perfect church.  Including ours.  But there is lot to like about this church.  As Lead Pastor, I frequently get to hear the positive comments about Seneca Creek.  Maybe you don’t get to hear those comments, but here’s what I really want you to hear from me.

The things you love about this church are the result of God’s powerful work, and our incredible staff.  I often feel like a conductor in an orchestra.  I’m surrounded by people who have invested their lives to play their instrument with skill and passion.  They play far better than I ever could.  And the result of these artists working together is remarkable.

One of those “artists” is our Executive Pastor, Jeannette Cochran.  What you may not know is the indispensable role she has played in helping Seneca Creek become the church that it is.  But that’s what I really want you to hear from me.  Jeannette’s leadership and passion has been the driving force in a number of massive projects over the last few years.  From getting our building project finished, to hiring and developing staff; from our organizational structure, to our Ignite HOPE vision; from our Ignite magazine, to the Chick-fil-A leadercast, and many other areas, she has led with courage, compassion, and determination.  (And prior to her role as Executive Pastor she was the Children’s Ministry Pastor, and effectively led and grew that ministry.  My children, and maybe yours, too, have benefitted from her leadership in PowerHouse.)

It’s been said that you’re only as good as your team.  We have a great staff team.  And we would not be where we are as a church without Jeannette’s leadership over the last 14 years.  Some of you may read that list above and think, “Wow, Mark, how are you going move forward without Jeannette?”  I’m still trying to figure that one out! 🙂  We do know God has even greater things in store for all of us, though.

Most of you know that Jeannette will be leaving our staff team at the end of April.  So to show our appreciation, we’re hosting a Thank You celebration this Sunday, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at our facility.  If you are able, please consider stopping by and expressing your gratitude to Jeannette.  While she will continue to be part of our Seneca Creek family, her absence on the staff team will be noticed by everyone!  We want to let her know how much we appreciate her years of courageous leadership.

-Pastor Mark

P.S. One more thing.  Jeannette will be teaching this week in our series on marriage.  You won’t want to miss this.  Hope to see you Sunday!