
John and Sarah Maiden. John Duke (6), Sadie (4) and Harrison (2)
As we continue our 18th year of ministry together, we are all seeing changes in our world and our Church. I am blessed to be your Pastor and amazed at how God is showing Himself mighty among us in spite of the challenges of COVID-19 and the aftermath. Thank you for all that you are and do to further the Kingdom of God. But, we know God wants to do more! So let me share some exciting news!
I was praying and thinking about retiring from Full-time Pastoral Ministry when I turned 65 back in 2020.In 2017 we began the “Succession/Church Revitalization” ministry approach to make a smooth transition to leadership change. Then Covid-19 hit and the process was slowed. Seeking more help to locate God’s person for this position, I began a conversation with the “Pillar Church Planting Network.” This Southern Baptist affiliated group helps revitalize older Churches and plant new Works. Over those years I have prayed, met with and talked with several men about the possibility of coming to Midwood. No one seemed to be the right fit until now. I really sense that God has directed us to the right man to begin this transition. I am so excited to see God at work. And so, I am excited to introduce you to Pastor John Maiden from The Church at Perry Creek in Raleigh, N.C.
We have called Pastor John Maiden as our future Pastor and Pastor John and his family will join us on staff as my Associate, working together for a year or so, until he becomes Lead Pastor. Our plan is that I will continue to work with him until I will turn the Lead Pastor leadership over to your new Pastor in late 2023 when I turn 69. God’s timing is always perfect and I am convinced that Pastor John and his family will be a perfect fit for Midwood with God’s help. I am honored to be your Pastor now, and humbled to serve such an awesome God. I am very confident that this is God’s will and God’s next move for our Church to grow and reach our neighborhood for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Lovingly Yours, Joyfully His,
Pastor Garry