Dear First & Franklin Family, 

I continue to feel incredibly blessed and honored to be your pastor as God leads us into a new season of life and ministry together. 

At this time last year, the Pastor Nominating Committee decided that I would be the candidate they would present to the congregation. I worshiped with you every week from Michigan, and I  was well aware of what was happening here at First & Franklin. I knew that you were at a critical point in your life together. The financial future of this great historic church was a daunting question mark. Rev. Steve Nofel and Alex Mendelsohn kept me informed of the issues the session was wrestling with as they prepared to make some tough decisions regarding the financial health and stability of the congregation. As the fall progressed, members and friends of the congregation were challenged to be “All In” with their giving and their support of the church’s ministry. I was impressed by the weekly “Minutes for Stewardship” offered by various congregation members. As reports of the pledges were shared with me, I was encouraged and even more excited about the possibility of serving as your new minister. Indeed, this congregation was willing to be “All In!”

On Sunday, October 13, Alex Mendelsohn, chair of our Finance Committee, shared the following news.  (read more)