Greetings –

There’s no question that recent circumstances have caused each of us to endure change. Well in my case, besides all the adjustments COVID-19 foisted upon me, there was another change that came my way.

Six months ago, Bethel Church of San Jose hired a new Worship Pastor. Now I don’t mean to imply that I’ve been Bethel Church’s Worship Pastor for a long time – but Jesus signed my first church directory.

Through these changes, I’ve learned a few lessons that I hope will help you regardless of whether you’re newly minted in your post, or someone who would be considered a seasoned veteran.

1. If you continually place your life and ministry in God’s hands, you should rest in the fact that He knows best. So, rather than extrapolate as to the many ways this change might negatively affect me, I developed this mantra – “I’m putting down what’s good so that I can pick up what’s best.” This new outlook has made the change exciting rather than ominous.

2. Things will be different. I know this is kind of a “duh” statement, but as the person passing the baton, the depth of your reaction when the new person makes some changes may surprise you. Don’t worry, it’s okay – breathe deeply and realize that God loves your church even more than you do. As such, He has a good plan, and that plan probably means that some things will be done differently than when you did them.

3. Opt for harmony rather than dissonance. In my case, I’m still at Bethel, working alongside our new Worship Pastor Bree’anna Walberg. My job is to encourage her and celebrate her success. But just as important, I need to squelch any unfair comparisons people may make between us. Years at Bethel have blessed me with deep relationships. I need to leverage those relationships and ask everyone in my sphere of influence to offer Bree the same love and support they’ve given me through the years.

4. If you happen to be the new staff member – you’ll need to have PATIENCE. Give yourself ample time to get to know your pastor, fellow staff members, volunteers and church family. Remember, you’ve been “grafted” into a new environment. Allow adequate time for the graft to take so you can receive nourishment from that environment as well as contribute toward its growth. I know it can be stressful trying to figure out how you fit into a new situation but based upon the fact that God has led you to this post, you need to rest in the fact that He has the perfect way for you to exercise your gifts.

If you’re navigating through this kind of change, I want you to know that I’m available to help. If you need me, I would be happy to listen and encourage you. Please don’t hesitate to contact me through the DRC. I can tell you that all along my journey, God has been right there with me. I believe He’ll be there for you as well…

In conclusion, I’m proud of those who partnered with me on both District Council and the Ministers Retreat. Regardless of COVID, powerful ministry took place at those gatherings. Those moments allow me the pleasure of meeting wonderful brothers and sisters and reinforces the fact that our district is full of talented people who are ready and willing to serve.

 My thanks to the District Superintendent, Executives, DRC Staff, Pastor Frank Silverii and the Bethel San Jose staff, my wife Gina and to you – the NCN family for allowing me the opportunity to continue serving in this role.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jon Lugo