Important News - We Have Resigned

We have announced this morning to the great people at Westlife Church that we have resigned as Lead Pastors.

Our last Sunday will be Sunday 11 October 2009.

Pastor Steve Dixon from Hillsong Brisbane Campus this morning addressed the church and outlined the launch, growth and health of the church. That was very honouring.

Jillian and I have been overwelmed by the love and gratitude that people have expressed. Thanks.

Here is a bit of what we said this morning:

This has been a very tough decision – probably the toughest decision we have made so far in our lives. Yet it is also a relatively simply one.

When your values are clear, decisions become clearer.
We value our family, marriage and health – we value our children.
So these important things always come first....
We have sought prayed and read God’s Word – we have spent time with wise counsel – we have spoken to key people – we have looked at a lot of options – we have searched our hearts
– and we have come to this very difficult decision.
Parts of this decision are very sad – extremely sad
This decision will be very sad, even hurtful to some of you – we apologise for that.

Our family, marriage and health have been under a relentless pressure – and there is a deep weariness. Another family holiday will not fix this. 3 months off will not fix this.
We believe that resigning as Founding and Lead Pastors is the best choice for our family and for the church.

We are confident of a strong God – who is the head of this Church. This strong God knew this decision was coming – and He is not surprised.

We are confident of the God at work in you – some of you will be shaken for a season –but that will turn into a kingdom resolve that will fuel the next level of health and growth at Westlife
We love you all – we have prayed for you in advance – we have some good people around us and our church - we have set some things in motion that will position you for a great new leader or leaders.

We are thankful for this opportunity and privilege to lead you – it is coming up 4 years for some of you. These have truly been the Wonder Years for us – the establishment of a vibrant local church in a growth corridor.

Thank you for the privilege of leading you and being your pastors.

The team are planning a Farewell Celebration for Sunday PM 11 October 2009 - probably at about 6pm.