Pray With Us | Baptisms Down Under and a Staff Update
Society Church in Melbourne, Australia only began gathering this past fall and have already seen so many baptized! Beautiful stories of redemption worth celebrating like this one of a young man named Ryan:
After moving to Melbourne from the UK, Ryan began to attend Society Church. Ryan soon decided to surrender his life to Jesus. Before his baptism, he mentioned to a new acquaintance at church that he wished his mother could be there from the UK. Moved by the Holy Spirit, this acquaintance offered to fly Ryan's mother to Melbourne for the occasion! Upon hearing of this, Ryan's parents' church in the UK contributed to also fly his father out. A simple step of faith turned into a powerful, cross-continental act of generosity. At the baptism, both of Ryan’s parents were present, creating a powerful moment for everyone as they witnessed not only his public commitment to Christ but also an expression of love, faith, and community support.
Staff Update: Luke Greer's New Role & What's Ahead
After 12 years at Orchard Group, Luke Greer (Head of Partner Development) has accepted a new role as Director for the Bay Area School of Ministry. As much as we'll miss Luke, we're cheering him on, knowing the school of ministry is getting an outstanding leader.
Luke has been a valuable member of the Orchard Group staff for 12 years, spending most of his time making sure our church planters receive the funding they need by connecting them with generous church partners.
While we are sad to see Luke leave our team, we are excited for him to stretch and grow his leadership gifts and continue making a major difference in God’s Kingdom. In this new role, he'll help ensure future church and church planting leaders receive the education and training they need to make a lasting impact!
We have interim plans to cover Luke’s responsibilities for Orchard Group with current team members as we search for a new Head of Partner Development. Please join us in praying that God will bring the right person to lead our partnership development efforts!
–Brent
Serving the mission of church planting on the Orchard Group team has been a tremendous honor.
Now, I'll be helping to equip pastors, leaders, and emerging ministers with the biblical depth and practical skill to serve faithfully for a lifetime. The common thread through each of my seasons of ministry is Jesus' church: helping it to thrive, serve, and lead — especially in communities that are currently underserved by vibrant church presence.
What a privilege!
—Luke
You
Thank you for your partnership! Here are some ways you can partner in ministry this month:
- Take a moment to pray for new believers in Melbourne, Australia and all God is doing through this new church!
- Join us in thanking God for Luke's part in seeing new churches started all around the world and pray a blessing over this new chapter.
- Forward this email to a friend! We always want the number of prayer partners to be growing for the sake of new churches and the communities they serve.