Hello Church Family,

A few of weeks ago we had a candidate and his wife visit us as a strong potential candidate for the Youth Director and Young Adult position at Valley. We had a great visit; a great weekend and we all left that weekend feeling positive toward the next step. Thank you to those who had the opportunity to connect and share your feedback with me and the Elders.

However, this candidate and his wife decided that this is not where God is leading them. Instead, they sense a strong call by the Lord to come alongside a family member who is planting a church in VT. This opportunity became clear after our visit. This has been on his heart for a long time and we trust and pray that the Lord will use them for His Kingdom. 

While this is disappointing for us, we are trusting God. We all want people to be where God wants them to be. We all want what God wants for His Church. So, we are trusting God for the right person for Valley at the right time.

I have shared this news with our Youth Leaders and Ministry Directors and have proposed our next steps together in this moment and moving forward: 

1. We need to pray. 

• Pray for this young couple and others like them who are venturing into places that need the gospel.

• Pray for the person God has for us.

• Pray for one another as we experience God's grace and supply during this time.

• Pray for our youth and families as we help them disciple their kids. 

2. The Elders and Youth Leaders are planning to meet and map out a short range plan for youth ministry. This initially encompasses the summer, but will also look at the Fall as well. 

3. We will continue our prayerful search for the right person long term.

4. Let’s take joy in God's faithful provision in this moment and the future. God is not wringing his hands (as I am often inclined to do). He knows, He is good and He provides. 

One thing that God keeps revealing to me in this process is that he is establishing the work of the gospel in the next generation. This is thrilling to me and I hope it is for you as well. 

Church, thank you for your faithful partnership and prayer in the Gospel!

In Christ,

Pastor Chad