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Today, August 26, 2001 we gave thanks for the Interim Ministry of Hiram "Doc" Jones as he shared with us one last time from the pulpit a sermon titled "You Can't Go Forward Backward - Facing the Future". We will miss him, his wisdom, his caring, his spirit, and his spirituality. We will also miss Annette, his wonderful wife. She too has blessed us. We are all better for having known them. We wish them well as they continue their walk with God. |
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Leader: We have gathered now to express our thanksgiving to God
for the Interim Ministry of our brother in the faith, Hiram Jones. Doc Jones: I thank you, the members and friends of the First Christian Church of Conroe, Texas for the love and the support you have shown me and my family. I am grateful for the ways you have received my leadership. I ask your forgiveness for any mistakes I have made. As I leave as your Interim Minister, I carry with me fond memories of the blessed times we have shared. People: We receive your thanks, and offer of forgiveness as you close your ministry to us. We are thankful for the time you have shared with us. We ask your forgiveness for our mistakes. Your influence on us and on this congregation will be your heritage to us. Doc Jones: I accept your gratitude and forgiveness, and I forgive you. I trust that both our time together and our parting are pleasing to God. I release you from turning to me and depending on me. I encourage your continuing ministry here. I will pray for you and for your new pastor, Wes Morgan. Unison: Dear God, your love for us is from everlasting to
everlasting. We know that no deed is ever lost in your eternity. Now, we
give you thanks for "Doc" and for Annette and for the memories
we will forever cherish. We hold each other in Your Presence as we now
move in different directions. We pray that your Holy Spirit will keep us
always in Your love forever. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. |
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