Oaks City Commissioning

Today, after more than a year of prayer and training and evaluation and meetings and much planning, we were commissioned out of North Wake Church 

to plant Oaks City Church in North Raleigh.

A few weeks prior to the official commissioning service, Josh stood before the elders of North Wake to receive his final evaluation and charge to preach and serve as an elder and pastor at Oaks City Church.  It was no small thing to stand before such godly men, and Josh came away so incredibly humbled and encouraged by what they had to say.  

He is now officially an ordained pastor!

I don't have the words to describe how rich our time at North Wake has been.  We've learned and grown in our Christian walks.  We've had many opportunities to serve in several different capacities.  The relationships we've built there have challenged us to love Jesus more, to serve joyfully and to share that joy with others.  It is hard on our hearts to be leaving this place and many, many people that we love so dearly.

Especially our pastor.  Larry Trotter is one of the most humble men we've ever known, and it has been a privilege to sit under his teaching from the pulpit for the past 4.5 years.  

Solid, consistent truth.  

What an awesome example he has been for Josh.

Oaks City is one of two local church plants being sent out from North Wake this spring, and the commissioning service was for both of us.  Powerful exhortation and solid counsel was given, followed by a time of prayer over the families going out with both young church plants.

After that, we sang praises to our Great and Mighty God!  For none of this would even be happening apart from Him, and the saving work of Jesus Christ on the cross and the hope of his resurrection.

Then it was time for hugs, and tears, and thank-yous, and pictures...

I love this one of (most of) the Reed and Lyon kiddos.  

They are a vital part of this church plant, and I'm excited to see how the Lord will use this season to shape their faith and grow each of their personal relationships with Him.

We are so thankful to be partnering with the Lyons in this!!  Our families have a rich history, and it's been awesome to see how complementary our God-given giftings are.  God knows exactly what He's doing, and His ways are perfect!  Exciting days are ahead : )