Two weeks ago the church overwhelmingly  approved Scott Solimine as associate minister.   Scott will focus on ministry with students and young adults.   He is also helping me with ideas for overall outreach and planning.   Over the past few months he and his wife Valery have volunteered in our ongoing youth programs.  It has been a delight getting to know them.  Our current youth worker, Andrew Sbarra,  is confident that Scott will bring the youth to the next level of growth.  Andrew will continue working with Scott in ministering to the youth as long as he can  (With full time school and a wedding next summer). He wants to stay on with our current core bunch of kids until graduation.  Andrew and Scott make a great team.  Andrew has a keen ability for planning events.  Scott is skilled in reaching out and engaging young people.   He enjoys talking with kids about their beliefs and challenging them to think through their faith.  We are excited about the growth opportunities this allows us. 

I’m preparing for our trip to Hawaii.  My son, Justin, is stationed there.  My daughter, Marissa, will be going with Mely and me.  We are excited about enjoying that tropical paradise together.   Then the three of us will be off to Indianapolis for the North American Christian Convention.  Andrew and Scott will preach the Sundays I am away.