I’m always excited to gather with the saints of Sovereign Grace on Sunday. But I’m even more excited than usual for this coming Sunday (April 7). That’s because we will be celebrating together the ordination of my friend and precious partner in ministry, Pastor Jon Hansel.

Jon and his wife, Tonya, have been members at Sovereign Grace Church for 8 years. Before joining the staff, Jon served as a Small Group Leader. In July 2010 he came on as a Pastoral Intern. His gifting for the work of ministry was evident and in May 2011 he was affirmed by the leaders and the people of SGC and he joined the elder team. He loves this church that he serves faithfully with all his heart.

For the past few months Jon has been studying hard for the Sovereign Grace Ministries ordination exams. The grueling written and oral exam help evaluate the candidate’s theological acumen, biblical knowledge, and pastoral wisdom and insight and thereby serves to protect the integrity of our commitment to the SGM Statement of Faith and ensure that called and qualified men are filling our pulpits and pastoring our churches. Jon passed both exams with flying colors!

So now it’s time to celebrate, which we’ll do on Sunday. The sermon will lead into a time of recognizing God’s grace in Jon as he is presented with his ordination certificate and takes his ordination vows and you respond with congregational vows. Then we’ll lay hands on Jon and pray. Everyone is invited to a reception after service, so please plan on staying a little later than usual on Sunday.

I’m so thankful that I get to serve in pastoral ministry with my friend, Jon. And I’m thankful mostly that we get to serve together with all of you at Sovereign Grace Church.

Your friend and partner in the Great Work,

Pastor Rick