Part 147 (1/2)

trained as a pastor in his own country, and he strongly

believes that G.o.d has called him to Pine Mountain for the

specific purpose of reaching Out to people. Since his arrival,

I know of many who have been touched by this young man's

ministry. In fact, I can honestly say that I'm a better person

for having spent time with him-his deeply rooted faith is a

challenge to me. And I know many of you would agree.

Anyway, his name was raised at our last board meeting as a

potential pastoral candidate for our church. We discussed

this for quite some time without reaching an agreement.

Finally, we decided this was too big of an issue to decide on

our own, and as both Michael and Jed are out of town this

weekend, we thought today would be a good day to let the

congregation discuss this possibility and make a decision.

We have mentioned our interest to Michael, and he very

hum bly said he only wanted to do G.o.d's will. We have made

no official job offer to him. What we want today is to hear

from you.” Sam nodded over to Jim Hanson, another board

member, and Jim came up to the pulpit. ”Jim has requested

this opportunity to talk to you today in representation of

those on the board who are opposed to this idea.”

Jim cleared his throat. ”It's not that I have anything per-

sonally against Michael Abundi,” he began carefully. ”But I

am concerned about the stability of this congregation right 230 ~ Melody Carlson

now. We've been through a lot in the past several years, and

yet we have a really good bunch of people here. I'm just wor-