After our leadership spent time in prayer, and after a recruitment process that involved both written examination and an interview, Whitewell is delighted to announce the appointment of Nigel Owens as an Assistant Pastor.
Appointing a Pastor using this approach at first may have seemed unusual – not every church does it this way, but as a leadership we believe we have done the right thing, and we have seen God’s hand throughout it, to guide us to appoint the right person for the right time. Nigel has been part of Whitewell for a number of years and has previously taken a Bible Study and has spoken at our prayer meeting a number of times. He has served in the Thursday night outreach team, and has been part of The Shepherd’s Academy. Pastor Nigel Owens opened his Pastoral ministry by preaching his first Sunday Morning message on 12th April, and bringing a message entitled “God’s church is going to win.”
He used the opportunity to pay tribute to those who have gone before him, including our founding Pastor, James McConnell, and he described how he felt deeply honoured to serve under the leadership of Pastor David Purse. He also described Whitewell as “not just my church, it’s my family” and “my spiritual home”. Nigel will have the opportunity to spend a full 12 months working alongside the other Assistant Pastors here in church, gaining further pastoral experience, and learning more about the work of God here, all of the ministries, and of course all of our people.
At the end of this period we’re planning for a full and formal ordination to the Christian ministry. Like any new Pastor, Nigel will need all of our prayers and support at this time, as he begins his Pastoral journey, so pray for him – the Pastoral calling is not an easy one, and he will appreciate and be helped by all of your prayers, and indeed your encouragement.
On behalf of all the leadership of Whitewell, Pastor, Elders and Trustees, we wish Pastor Nigel Owens God’s richest blessing for the months and years ahead.