by Pastor Dan Baumgartner

Bob Dylan liked to sing “the times, they are a-changin’.” It may be true about “the times,” but it’s certainly accurate in describing the Bethany staff right now. Here’s some changes you’ll want to know about:

Facilities Manager. Virgil Owens has moved onto other things after nine years on the Bethany staff. We’re grateful for the years Virgil invested in our community and managing our properties as a resource for ministry. The Bethany Personnel Committee (Brian Beaumont, Chair) has interviewed a number of candidates to replace Virgil, and we hope to have a new Manager on board the first week of April. In the meantime direct any questions to Pastors Dan or Todd.

Associate Pastor for Outreach Lynne Blessing. As you have probably heard, Lynne and Jim had a baby boy on March 19. William “Will” Faris Blessing joins big sister Kyra in the Blessing household. Lynne will be on leave for three months, returning in mid to late June. In the meantime, questions related to Outreach should be directed to Elders Gene Williams (Local Outreach including Race & Justice) and Steven Judd (Global Outreach).

Director of Music Ministries Gary Talbert. As you know, Gary’s wife Maxine has very serious cancer. In order to have more time to be with Maxine, Gary will be on sabbatical for three months, beginning just after Easter. They hope to do some extensive traveling during that time, depending on Maxine’s health. In Gary’s absence, questions about worship and music can be directed to Pastor Dan or Elder for Worship Lisa Hudson.

Bethany is blessed with a tremendous staff, for which I’m very grateful. It is also true that we try hard not to be a “staff-led” church. Our heritage and priority is to cultivate strong lay leadership from within our community. During transition times like I’ve described above, it is a wonderful thing to have strong elders, ensemble leaders and others who can step in and make things work. Thanks for your prayers and patience as we navigate these adjustments.