Jennifer Everett was recommended on July 28th as a Deacon Candidate. On August 25th during our next Members Meeting, church members will vote. The following is her testimony explaining how and why she feels called to be a deacon.
I grew up in a suburban-Chicago neighborhood where almost everyone was Catholic. Though I didn’t struggle with belief in Jesus, I didn’t understand what it meant to have a relationship with Him. My faith was more cultural than personal. After the birth of my first daughter, I was invited to attend a book study at a nearby Baptist church. The church where I attended the study was warm, welcoming, and faithful to the Gospel. Eventually, through the patient discipleship of many people, I came to a saving faith in Jesus Christ.
My ministry experience includes volunteering with kids from babies through middle school. I’ve also facilitated small groups at women’s studies, and I’ve taken classes in Christian leadership. My family began attending Church on Mill in 2022. Last summer my husband, Larry, and I began serving together on the Greeting Team and we became Gospel Community co-leaders this year. I have completed all four Disciplemakers classes and I attend women’s Bible reading on Monday evenings.
I am honored to be considered for the role of Deacon of Children’s Ministry. I’m excited for the opportunity because I love my church family. You guys are the best. You have embraced me and my family. I feel loved and known but at the same time held accountable which has gone a long way in helping me grow in my relationship with Christ. Why wouldn’t I want to serve a church family who has so lovingly served me and my family?
Discipling kids can be a challenge for both parents and ministry volunteers. However, sharing the Gospel with children is an honor and a blessing and I am inspired to see how many people at Church On Mill are willing to play a part in helping to raise the next generation of Christians. Parents can’t be the only ones pointing their kids to Christ. It takes an entire church family doing it together, supporting each other with wisdom and compassion to make it happen. I am excited to join my church family in this process.
