Sunday, September 23, 2007

Installation of Jonathan Thompson as “Honorary” Pastor Emeritus,

Installation of Jonathan Thompson
“Honorary” Pastor Emeritus,
New Tusket United Baptist Church

Jonathan Thompson, from a very early age, has devoted his life to the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ; through words and deeds. He has spent time in preparation, attending university and college; so that his work would be well done. He has served our community and the family of New Tusket United Baptist Church faithfully through the years.

He has been an active member on the Board of Christian Education, the 2006 Search Committee, and the 2006
Lay-Interm Committee. He has assisted in various services by reading God’s Word, and delivering the Pastoral Prayer. He also has shared, with us, his gift of preaching.

Now, we challenge him to continue, to be an example of Christ in all he does and says. Remember the words of Jesus when he said, "Whoever would lose their life for my sake will find it, and whoever would be the greatest among you, let them first be a servant of all."

Jonathan is such a servant, and we thank God for him.

Jonathan, we (now) call upon you, to reaffirm your commitment to Christ and this Church.

Please respond to these “Roles and Responsibilities;”

Roles & Responsibilities
“Honorary” Pastor Emeritus; Mr. Jonathan Thompson
New Tusked United Baptist Church

The Pastor Emeritus is asked…

1. To play a specific role in regular and special church services and celebrations; as requested.

2. To be a living example of a devoted and dedicated Christian.

3. To work with the existing Pastor, as well as the rest of the ministerial team and congregation of the New Tusket United Baptist Church, in bring people to Christ; saving souls.

4. To honor God; the Father, the Son. and the Holy Spirit in all you do and say.

5. To keep the Faith, and pray continually for all Christians; everywhere.

6. To read the Bible on a daily bases, and continue to learn, to evolve, and to grow.

7. To constantly look to God for direction, encouragement and support; and to offer the same to those lost.

8. To continue to spread the Word of the Lord.

9. To maintain your responsibility to God’s Church, by maintaining a valid church membership.

10. To walk in the Light of the Lord – at all times.

Jonathan, will you strive to live up to these expectations? Will you endeavor to be a living example and inspiration to us all?
(“Yes, with God's help.”)

Jonathan, to congregation and to God:

I reaffirm my baptism vows, and my dedication to God, believing with all my heart that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and accept the Holy Scriptures as inspired by God through the Holy Spirit. It is my sincere desire to continue to devote my life to the ministry of the Word, and to live my life in a way that will bring honor to my Lord.

Pastor Brian, to congregation:
Do you, as the family of the New Tusket United Baptist Church, renew your commitment to work together with Jonathan, now as “Honorary” Pastor Emeritus; so that more people will experience the saving grace of Jesus Christ?

Will you be faithful in your service of God, according to your abilities and opportunities?

Please indicate your willingness by standing and repeating after me; “Yes, with God's help.”

Congregation: “Yes, with God's help.”

Jonathan, to congregation:

I accept your invitation to be your “Honorary” Pastor Emeritus, and I now covenant with you that in the strength of our Lord Jesus Christ, I will live a Holy life, among you, as an example, and will faithfully attempt to bring glory and honor to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.


Congregation:

In the name of Jesus, we as a congregation install you, Jonathan Thompson, as “Honorary” Pastor Emeritus of the New Tusket United Baptist Church. May God bless our work together.

Pastor Brian:
Let Us Pray,
Dear Heavenly Father,
We thank you so much for the life of Jonathan Thompson, and the example he sets for others. You, Dear lord, have placed within his heart, a love of Christ, and of other people. You have given to him a desire to sever you, in whatever way he can. And even though he may be limited in what his body can do, he is not limited in what his heart offers.

Lord, God, we ask you today, to grant to Jonathan a special sense of well-being and contentment; a special sense of accomplishment and pride; and a special sense of honor and duty – to You.

Please continue to bless this church, and our lives, with Your presence and Your everlasting peace. Give to Jonathan the strength and wisdom as he fulfills his role as “Honorary” Pastor Emeritus.

I pray all this, for all of us, in Your Son’s Holy and Heavenly name, Amen.

You may be seated.

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