Yesterday I was delighted to preach at the Induction Service of a great friend and mentor.
Rev Rosemary Eaton was inducted as the Pastor of Bridgwater Baptist Church and I was invited to preach! A big occasion for them, a big occasion for Rosemary and Ray and most definitely a big occasion for me. I preached on The Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The rest of the service was great, a real celebration of the way the Baptist Church sees a Covenant between members and pastor. Really glad we could be there for it.
Rosemary was the Baptist Minister for Ringstead Shared Church, as such we have worked together for nearly 3 years during which time she has been an unofficial mentor for me. Not only is she gifted at leading worship and preaching, but she is also a superb musician (mostly Sax these days). During her time in Ringstead she led the growing Church through a coming together of Baptists and Methodists beyond simply sharing to being a single Congregation, doing so without a split (and the respect and trust the congregations felt for Rosemary was the key reason for the success). Also as I have commented before on here Ringstead Shared Church has been a shining example of a small Church that is very active in high quality (well organised, properly thought out, welcoming, innovative and properly gospel focused) mission.
So I figure that Bridgwater Baptist Church are in for a good time with their new Pastor, it will be a time of change and growth as Rosemary helps them catch what God has planned for them.
But it was a bit of a trek, 371 miles. Not exactly a very green day out!
PS Yes my other post 42: New Frontiers and Women and some of the reactions eg the blue fish project: Christianity & Liberalism do mean I love to post stories about how God blesses the ministry of women called and equipped to serve the body of Christ in positions of leadership and as pastors.
PPS We had intended to visit St John Street Cycles in Bridgwater as a bit of a treat, however, they were closed. But the huge feast put on by Bridgwater Baptist Church after the service did make up for it.
PPPS Here is a map of where Bridgwater Baptist Church is. Watch out for the one way system.
Comments