Farewell, Beloved FriendsI remember the first time I met them. I was "playing" at "living a good life", going to church only sporadically. When the Lord allowed me to come face to face with the "real me" and I got serious about my relationship with Jesus Christ, we knew it was the church they pastored that we wanted to attend because of the love and genuine welcome they had extended to us.
We quickly learned their commitment to serving the Lord Jesus Christ was not just "lip service"; they meant it. They were there for whoever needed them. We knew we could go to either of them, during any time of trial.
Retiring Senior Pastors
Gary and Peggy Ferrell
In late 1996 and early 1997, our son finally came to himself in his own pigpen of drug abuse and reckless living. As he began to understand that his life could not continue the way it had, we turned to our pastors for Christian counsel and guidance. Pastor Ferrell immediately stepped forward and began to work as hard to get our son into Teen Challenge as if he had been his own. We didn't have the money to even get his medical tests completed. He had no clothes to wear, not so much as a shirt. Pastor Ferrell personally saw to it that Ricky got what was needed to get him into a Teen Challenge center. It wasn't just money--there were all the phone calls and personal appearances that were made, beyond what we know about, even today.
That is just one example of the many occasions when they have reached out to minister to not only us, but all those who came to them for help. Not just from the pulpit, but in friendship, fellowship and fervent prayers. This is the kind of dedication this pastor and his wife have shown throughout their entire ministry. They were not just our Senior Pastors, they were dearly beloved friends, cherished in our hearts. Day by day, we have seen them faithfully fulfill numerous commitments as they ministered to the needs of the church body. Pastor Ferrell was an "open-door" pastor, willing to listen, provide Biblical counsel and pray with anyone who needed it. Peggy gave no less of herself. With little regard for their personal well-being, they have both given of themselves, far beyond their own physical strength.
However, as the years go by, we realize we have reached that stage of life wherein we have to bid farewell far more frequently than ever before to those we've known and loved, at least temporarily. Certainly, we do not begrudge these precious friends their retirement years, but oh how they shall be missed. They were not only leaders of our church family, but by the care and genuine concern they extended to us, they were, and will forever be, treasured members of our heart.
In early June of 2001, they will retire and pass the mantle of leadership on to others. It is our sincerest prayer that these two, even more in love with one another than the day they were married, will continue to enjoy each other's company for many years to come. They wish to travel and we know all who meet them will be made that much richer by the experience.
There are no words with which we can adequately express our gratitude and thankfulness we feel to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for having allowed us to know them. It is has been far too brief a time, but we have learned much from them.
We salute you, Pastors Gary and Peggy Ferrell, for all the love and encouragement you have extended towards us. We want you to know: that which you have planted in our hearts and lives, took root and continues to grow. You are precious friends and compassionate companions. Our prayers go with you, wherever you may be.
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