Another thing...

The rumors and things that people have been saying since I announced my resignation are getting out of hand.

First of all, yes, Pastor Milt and I have our differences and are not a good fit for a number of reasons...and that's okay. He will continue to minister here and do a great job discipling people and ministering to the people of the Tigard Church of God....I will minister elsewhere. We do not hate each other's guts, we are talking, and I respect him as a minister of the Gospel.
I'm especially disappointed in those who are concerned that I'm speaking on the 16th as they feel I might say things to divide the church and cause problems...SERIOUSLY?!...COME ON! I've been here for four and a half years, worked hard to bless the church, and be here as a preacher and leader when the church needed one...Have I ever been one to intentionally cause problems? Have I ever intentionally tried to be divisive? Has anyone ever known me to preach anything other then what is beneficial and uniting? Really? Its sad to me that those who have known us for so long are now questioning my character...unbelieveable. THAT makes me upset. I know I'm a bit head strong and stubborn but when it comes down to it, I think I've worked hard to serve the church and be a blessing. (I'm sure there are those that disagree - there always are.)

Second, I'm not leaving because I like alcohol so much that I'd rather have a drink then stay at the church - that's stupid...and if you think that is why I'm leaving...wow. Being with the kids is way more important to me then alcohol. If that was the only issue, I'd stop drinking.

Third, to those of you who have heard the rumor that I drove the church van 100mph with it full of kids - that's retarded....we had room for at least three more! :)
(Jokes aside, I've never driven the van 100mph - with kids or without. I would never do that...though youth pastors have the reputation for doing crazy things, we're not stupid and we value the safety of our students as much as anyone.)

Lata!