Secondary Title

The Pastor's Point of View

Bruce Hancock

     IT SEEMS LIKE ONLY YESTERDAY that Pat and I began our ministry, but it was actually 43 years ago when I was ordained by the First Baptist Church of Green Creek, North Carolina, where I served as Minister of Music and Youth prior to attending seminary. Throughout all these years God has been good and gracious to us. All of my pastorates have been happy and positive experiences, and Pat and I have made life-long friends in each of them. That is especially true in this church. By God’s grace and with your loving support we have been blessed to spend 25 years serving our Lord with you dear people.

     IT WOULD BE IMPOSSIBLE for me to tell you how much you have meant to me and my family. You have been generous, cooperative and kind. You have taken us into your hearts, your homes, and your lives. We thank you for every prayer you have prayed and for every encouraging word you have spoken during all these years. You have honored the Savior by your faithfulness and have been an inspiration to us. For these reasons and more, you will always have a very special place in our hearts.

     ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT aspects of my retirement is knowing that we will not be attending this church. I have always believed that it is in the best interest of the church for the retired pastor of that church to step aside and make room for the new pastor God will eventually send. Leaving such wonderful people as you will not be easy, but it is necessary. Please remember us in your prayers and we will continue to thank God every time we remember you. So for the last time, let me say:

     I’LL SEE YOU SUNDAY in the Father’s House!