Since our time here at the Pastor’s College is coming to an end, I thought I would share some thoughts and
highlights from our year.

It has been a little over 5 years since Steve and I first set foot in Crossway Church. When we first came through the doors at New Danville, we had never even heard of Sovereign Grace, and we could never have anticipated all that has since unfolded in our lives. These years have been full of amazing growth and discovery for us. Our theology is deeper, our worship richer, and our lives are truly changed from the faithful teaching and the humble people who have modeled these things to us. We are so incredibly grateful for you, our church, for Sovereign Grace at large, and for the impact that both have had on our lives.

One of the great joys of this past year has been meeting the 20 other couples/families who are also here for the Pastors College. We have made new friends from around the globe. Some are “neighbors” from Reading or Philly, while others are halfway around the world from Germany and Burma. There is a unique camaraderie here from sharing this year together. Having those relationships also knits our hearts to the churches in which they will be serving.

Another tremendous highlight has been to sit under the teaching and direction of CJ and Carolyn Mahaney, Gary and Betsy Ricucci, and Jeff and Julie Pursewell. They have all laid down their lives in unique ways that have contributed to the growth and success of our movement of churches. Their lives are all marked by an extreme humility which makes them very endearing, real and attractive. For example, the first Saturday of every month was a ladies meeting that met at the Ricucci’s home. All 20 of us ladies would cram into their living room and have the privilege of spending the morning under Betsy’s direction. We covered topics like spiritual disciplines, fellowship, and my personal favorite, lessons that she had learned from 30 years of being a pastor’s wife. I know if I walk away from this year embracing only one truth from those times I will be a changed woman.

One thing that has been surprising to me about this year is how Covenant Life Church loves and embraces
the Pastors College. They have overwhelmed us by the way they do “little things” to the extreme. Any
planned event (Sweetheart Banquet, Ladies Day Out, etc.) is done with such thorough care and creativity.
I also have had numerous members (a few with tears in their eyes) thank me for being here this year and
for the sacrifices that our family is making. I’m always a little stunned and not sure how to respond to
that! Their affection for us and for the church is truly remarkable. I honestly feel that this year has
been much more of a privilege than a sacrifice.

Having said all that, we are greatly anticipating our return to Lancaster. We love our home church and are
so thankful for you all. Often on return visits, you tell us how you and your families are praying for us. That means so much to us! Thank you for all your love, support, and help in this transition time.