What does a good transition look like? Every good transition requires two important factors: The existing leader must let go and the new leader must take charge. It is much like John the Baptist’s words, “He must increase and I must decrease” (I hope that isn’t taken wrong). Many of you know we have a…

This past Saturday, we elected Brian Hotrum as our upcoming new Superintendent. Congratulations! I remember how nervous I was when I was elected; no one feels ready or capable for this role! Leading leaders is only possible through relationships. Willingness to be led by the Superintendent allows our Conference to pursue unity and health. It’s…

Remember Mr. Rogers sweetly serenading us with the words, “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day for a neighbor. Would you be mine? Could you be mine?” I believe it’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood for churches. Pastor Rick McKinley pastors a sizeable regional church in the Portland area called “Imago…

Hi from the Bozeman, Montana! The Evangelical Church Denomination is starting on Day 2 of our General Conference. Six Conferences from across the country are meeting together for the business of prayer and planning, and inspiration. It’s great to see old friends and meet new ones! Please be praying for our time together and the…

You may not know this, but I go by my second name. Yep! My full name is Arvin Randall Myers. However, my parents have called me “Randy” from the get-go. You may ask, who would call their newborn “Arvin?” Part of the reason is that my dad was trying to follow a family tradition in…

Linda and I have always enjoyed “Midwinter Retreat,” which is now called our Midyear Retreat (since we meet in May). We look forward to the time away, being with fellow pastors and leaders, walking the beach, and even playing some games. Worshiping, praying, and growing together. Everything makes it a special time together. Let’s Talk…

Many of you know there are talks with the Missionary Church about the possibility of joining them as a Denomination. For some, it may be moving too slow and for others, too fast and for others, we shouldn’t be moving at all. (A fable with a young girl and some bears comes to mind.) At…

This morning we completed our Annual Conference at Valley View Church! We had a wonderful two and a half days of fellowship, worship and learning! Dan Kimball of The ReGeneration Project challenged and encouraged us during the Break Out Sessions and in the evening gathering. Here are a few quotes from Conference! They are not…

GOOD MORNING! Next week we gather for our Annual Conference in Portland, November 15-17. Last year we were online, but we get to gather in person this year – I can hardly wait. The theme of the Conference is “Real Church.” COVID has caused us to step back and reevaluate what church is all about….

Many pastors and churches have wondered about the value of belonging to a Conference of churches (and our Denomination). Before anyone becomes defensive, that’s a legitimate and important question. Why should we be together? LET’S TALK…     This is not just a newbie concern. During my time as Superintendent, two of our oldest congregations have…