New Elders Who Have Been Serving a Year

The time between their ordination and the workshop seemed to be a year late. After further thought, the year gave them time to observe, evaluate their rules, and to experience some of the realities of leadership. The chemistry seemed to be right: location, preparation, and eagerness to learn and implement what they learned.

Gail and I enjoyed our visit with the Highland Church of Christ in Columbia, Tennessee, this past weekend.

We met at The Bridge, an assisted living community in Columbia. Our meeting room was comfortable with a good TV hook-up for videos. Brian Oakley, one of the elders and administrator at The Bridge, had things set up to accommodate our every need. Andrew, the cook, prepared delicious snacks and meals for us.

The elders, ministers, and wives at Highland are Jerry and Shirley Brady, Al and Marjorie Hogan, Brian and Heather Oakley, Johnny and Barbara Paisley, Matt and Karel Shirel, Don and Jean Westmoreland, Brian and Amanda Gregory, David and Shelly Morris, and Malvin and Jan Sanders.

Due to some great criticism from an elder in a workshop last year, we had more breakout groups for discussion and application. Two YouTube videos recommended by my son, Jerrie Wayne, were thought-provoking, helping us reflect on what we have that often goes unnoticed and unused.

We had excellent sleeping accommodations provided by our daughter and her husband, Christi and Brian Parsons.

The Highland church gave us a warm response Sunday morning during worship and Bible study. One of the elders gave an encouraging update of some outstanding work they’re doing in benevolence and World Bible School. They invited us to stay for their potluck. This is their rule for showers: they have a delicious meal following Sunday morning service. The bride and groom open presents after the meal.

During our evaluation session at the conclusion of the workshop, one of the participants gave me a criticism to improve workshop books with future congregations. Thank you for that and other criticisms and compliments.

I appreciate the Highland church for inviting me to lead this 10th New Shepherds Orientation Workshop. Their attitude and eagerness to learn and apply what God wants in their lives is an example of their desire to follow the Good Shepherd who said, “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38, NKJV).

[reminder]