Saying Goodbye to Randy Frazee & Gene Appel

This weekend's service was both a happy and sad time. The announcement of Randy Frazee and Gene Appel both leaving and their words to the congregation were very sobering and penetrating. It seems that we just got these two guys! But then I realize Gene has been here five years and Randy over two. Where in the world did the time go? I think that is evidence that I am getting older!

When I first read Randy's Books "Connecting Church" and "Making Room for Life" about five years ago, I really resonated with the ideology. It brought me back to my childhood, my hometown, and my family. So his leaving is naturally sad. But the thing I realized was that the ideology does not reside with one person. If an idea is right and true and good, then we can live in that idea independent of who our current teaching pastor is. For me the neighborhood ideology has become reality. There is no going back now. I cannot. My neighbors and the community of Algonquin have become my way of life. Most of our closest friends live here, my children's friends live here and since we live here, we are part of this community.

Also, we are happy that Randy, Rozanne and family get a great opportunity to continue their ministry in another great church. We will miss them and wish them God's blessings.

I have not had as much of an opportunity to work with Gene Appel, which makes my next statement even more amazing. Ever since the first time he met me years ago he has remembered my name! Not only that, he remembered things about me, like I had children. Of all the leaders I have been around at Willow, Gene has been the most authentic and joy filled. I am sure Gene had a number of rough days but his joy, the joy of the Lord, was truly his strength. I am really going to miss that and him. But we are joy-filled for the church that Gene and his family land at. They will be truly blessed.

Finally, the Lord is teaching me about faith. We must have faith that God will guide us in the midst of change. Change happens and sometimes it makes us sad but we also need to put on our glasses of anticipation. We are looking to God to make His next move within Willow Creek church. That should give you some excitement and joy as we know that God is guiding us. We just need to trust, and that trust is called faith.

If you missed this weekend's service and announcement click here to see the note from the Willow Creek elders.