We moved to Iowa in the spring of 09. And we quickly fell in love with the people there, the church, and the beautiful seasons. Dan was the youth pastor and worship pastor at Glad Tidings Church in Cedar Falls, IA, home of the UNI Panthers. By God's grace, these two ministries flourished well. It was exciting and unforgettable to see how Jesus grew the church and grew us into many of the members lives. Dan and I also grew ourselves tons! Jesus introduced us and allowed us to form an amazing network of friends and accountability with the state offices there. Leaders that were so stellar. We had formed such close relationships with so many around us. Dan and I both found that Iowa people in general are the most kind, caring, generous, sociable, relational, genuine people we have encountered. So it was very hard when God began to stir our hearts to pray for what was next. Dan and I both know there is a calling on Dan's life to pastor, to teach. We have always had the strong desire to plant a church. We would pray and talk, pray and talk. Both really not wanting to hear to leave because we so much loved the church and congregation. We were so excited to see the weekly growth. So we prayed for a little over six months even. Then knowing it was time to move on with heavy but in some way excited (of what God may have next for us) hearts Dan put his resignation in at Glad Tidings Church in July. It is hard to make life long lasting friendships, but I honestly believe we made many in Iowa that I am so thankful to Jesus for. The next few weeks were extremely emotional and hard. But we were overwhelmed at the support and love through dinners, texts, emails, letters, gifts, and help we received from our dear friends in Iowa. Many tears were spilt as we began to make our transition out. Glad Tidings church family put together a good bye party for us on our last day. It was absolutely wonderful. Thank you guys for all your love and support.
Mrs. Amy who formed a tight bond with Mrs. Halle!
I could not believe all that came to express their thanks and say good bye. Someone was pointed out to me that Paul must have been burdened to leave church families and go to another. But that they always kept a place in his heart and he prayed for them. Glad Tidings will forever hold a place in my prayers and heart. We love and miss you all dearly!There will be another post soon on where Jesus sent us next.
