Regular readers of this blog will no doubt be aware that a number of us here are big fans of Eugene Peterson. In a few weeks his memoirs will be released. I can’t put my finger on exactly what it is about Peterson that I admire (maybe there is too much) except to say he encourages pastors to be pastors. Nothing more, nothing less. I will forever be grateful for his witness. His life has been, in my opinion, the epitome of what faithful pastoral ministry should be. Spiritual. Biblical. Stable.
In light of the release of Peterson’s memoirs we here at Near Emmaus would like to give away a copy to someone and we are asking you (bloggers and non-bloggers) to tell us in 200 words or less (in the comments or via a post) about a pastor who has had a postive influence on your life. You will need to tell us:
- What it is you appreciate about them?
- What makes them a good minister?
- Anything else you can think of!
- If you blog – please post a link about the giveaway.
Now although people are free to speak about whomever they wish we would prefer to hear about lesser known, everyday, pastors. It is understandable that some might argue a Piper, Peterson or Stott is ‘their’ pastor but we want to hear about the many lesser known shepherds who care for flocks week in and week out with little notoriety.
On behalf of the team here at Near Emmaus we look forward to reading people’s responses!
[UPDATED: When I posted this I forgot to mention that all entries have to be in by the 14th February. Also, if you don’t have a blog but would like to enter feel free to email me at mrkstevens at gmail dot com and I can post it for you!]
the archives near Emmaus 
“His [Peterson’s] life has been, in my opinion, the epitome of what faithful pastoral ministry should be. Spiritual. Biblical. Stable.”
Well said Mark, well said. I have enjoyed Peterson’s writings since being introduced to them in the mid-90’s while in Bible college. I ‘cut my teeth’ on Peterson by reading his book “A Long Obedience in the Same Direction” (LOVE the title!) and still go back to the book for encouragement.
I have been looking forward to Peterson’s memoirs for quite some time. If the person who wins this book fails to contact you within the required time frame, please, please, please…make me the back up winner. LOL! 😉
I recently attended a church in Korea for about 6 months. The pastor there has been in Korea for about 20 years, and has been the pastor of this church for the past 8. It is a fellowship that ministers primarily to military personnel and contractors, as well as the odd English teacher(me) and to Koreans. Because of the nature of the church, and it’s population, there is an incredible turnover rate among members and attendees.
Despite that unique situation, this man and his wife took the time to get to know my wife and I, to pray for and with us, to speak truth to us about our unknown future, and to care for us. I was not expecting the culture of family and community that I found there, and it made coming home truly difficult. Thanks, Pastor Ivey, for cultivating, teaching, and leading the community that God has placed you in.
I know this is about 300 words, and if that kicks me out of the contest, I will live with it. But, here is my entry.
His name was Gary and a decade ago he was my pastor. My wife and I had moved to Virginia and were looking for a new church. We had tried several churches until one fall day we came upon this modest church. The first time we visited this church, the service was taken up with a saxophone duo. We did not go back for several weeks. Yet, we remembered how friendly the people in the church were, so we went back. Much to our relief, it was a normal service. At the end of the sermon, the pastor enthusiastically greeted us and remembered us from our visit several weeks before. In the ensuing weeks and months, we became more and more a part of this community of faith. At the center was Christ, and helping his flock to worship and love Jesus, was my pastor, Gary. Over the next year, my wife and I settled into the life of the church, learning more and more about Jesus because Gary, my pastor, taught from the Word in a very understandable and plain way. One Sunday, Gary announced that he was soon resigning because of his parent’s situation. While sadden, I realized that this would allow us almost weekly lunches. I don’t clearly remember what we talked about, except that it was always a spiritual lift to me. Life moves on, and some months later, a new pastor was called, and a few months later, my wife and I moved back to the Midwest.
Epilogue: Years later, I thought about Gary, so I tracked him down and called him on the phone. He remembered me and we talked for a bit. Before we said “good bye”, I told him that I thought he had been a good pastor. He paused, and said “thank you”.
From the time I walked into his office saying, “But Pastor Don, I’m a good witch,” this man lovingly showed me the truth about God, patiently counseling me for two years until I got a clear picture of the love of the Father and accepted Jesus as my Savior. He helped me overcome the effects of childhood abuse and through his encouragement and teaching I have grown enough spiritually to help others. He is a true shepherd who is loved by the members of our congregation (Living Word Chapel, West Hurley, NY), a multi-cultural, multi-racial group from all walks of life. One of his goals is reaching the young and equipping them for ministry through a vibrant youth church. Pastor Don Moore seeks to grow and disciple God’s sheep so they can step into their ministries and callings. He is adamant that we are well versed in the Bible. A sign in front of our church says, “Love is spoken here.” Pastor Don teaches love by example. He also counsels other pastors when they need guidance or are discouraged. Our church supports many churches and missions throughout the globe, and has a ministry that helps local families and people.
http://wondering04.xanga.com/
The contest is mentioned on my blog and on my facebook account under Heather Marsten
curious, are you going to share who won the giveaway?
In a few days Heather.