NEW ELDERS

Road Crew, most of you participated in the October/November nomination process to raise up two new shepherding Elders. You have been waiting patiently to hear results! Instead of two, you actually raised up three! Everyone in the pool received nominations; the hope and intention, though, was to identify at least two people who would receive the most. What emerged from the count, however, were three individuals who shared the most nominations; it seems wise to follow that lead and receive three new Elders. This Sunday, Mark R., Rennie Araucto, and Kurt Munson will be publicly ordained during a prayer time in our worship service. Thank God who provides leadership from, and for, His church.

In the very near future, you will most likely be contacted by one of the Elders, David Anema, Chandra Mullenix, Beth DeVries, Mark R., Rennie Araucto, or Kurt Munson, who will identify themselves as "your elder," a person who will pray for you, be available to discuss ministry matters, and help you find your way into fellowship and service.

TERESA ELENBAAS, CHILDREN'S MINISTRY LEADER

We have a new Children's Ministry Leader (Deacon role), as Teresa Elenbaas volunteers to step into the role this coming January 2010! Teresa follows Christina Nelson and Sarah Groen-Colyn, who have both previously served Emmaus Road in this capacity. Teresa and Mike have been part of Emmaus Road for about two years, joined by little Marcus last December. Teresa has a background in teaching and art, and has been a part of the Church as long as she can remember. Much of her formative years were spent in a congregation around the same size as Emmaus Road, with many similar dynamics; Teresa is familiar with mixing age groups and being necessarily adaptive with curriculum and ministry design. Stepping into this leadership position joyfully, Teresa is also thinking carefully about how she will balance a life already filled with wonderful responsibilities; her particular leadership routine will be shaped by her God given strengths and capacities. Emmaus Road is currently served by several volunteers who help coordinate ministry to our various age groups of children and youth; Teresa will focus on supporting these folks, as well as scheduling future conversations and planning meetings as our Children and Youth ministry continues to develop.