A Letter to Our Friends @ Newton

December 10, 2008

Dear Friends,

Solomon reminds us in Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” I believe that verse applies not only to our activities but also to our careers and lives. God led my family and I to the wonderful faith family that is First Baptist Newton almost two and a half years ago. It has been here that our oldest daughter Chloe’ grew from a shy, introverted toddler to a dynamic, outgoing, and ever talkative young girl. It has been here that God blessed us beyond measure (and blew our minds in the process) by giving us two precious baby girls- Kennedy and Kaitlyn. It has been here that we have come to love a family of faith that has welcomed us with open arms and made us feel as if we were one of their own.

However, just as God led us to Newton we know that He is now leading us to a new ministry opportunity. At our wedding, Melissa and I coveted together that we would always follow the Lord wherever He leads us. That is why at this time I must offer my resignation as your Minister of Students.

I have accepted the position of Associate Pastor at First Baptist Church, Ray City, Georgia. Ray City is a small community located in South Georgia about fifteen minutes from Valdosta. My last day of service with you will be Sunday, January 4, 2009.

Please know that this is a decision that has not been easy for us to make. We have bathed it in prayer and contemplated long and hard to determine God’s will. However, God has plainly showed us that this is His will for us.

Please also know that we will constantly be praying for you as we will covet your prayers for us in this move and transition. Yes, we will keep in touch and will be letting you know of our new contact information as soon as we know it. And yes, we will continue to send pictures of all the girls as they grow up.

We are excited at the opportunity that God has laid before us, but sad about the friends we have made in you that we are leaving behind. We have come to love all of you and know that God has great plans in store for you (Jer. 29:11). We can’t wait to see what He will accomplish both in Newton and at Ray City.

If there is ever anything we can ever do for any of you, please do not hesitate to let us know. We will miss you greatly and have been blessed beyond measure in being able to minister alongside of you these least couple of years.

ICS,
Jason S Knippers
Melissa Knippers; Chloe’, Kennedy, & Kaitlyn