Dear NEO family,

Fifty seven of our pastors and spouses will be joining Gloria and me in Branson this weekend for our annual Ministers and Mates Retreat. I have been praying that this would be a wonderful time of renewal for our pastors. Would you join me in this prayer throughout the weekend? Run-away thoughts, sleepless nights and fatigue can become a standard routine in the life of a pastor. The Lord promises us rest. That rest comes as we turn our problems and fears over to Him. Pray that God will bless our pastors and spouses with true rest and renew their strength and passion for their calling. Pray that God will use our speakers, Bob and Carol Broadbooks, and our worship leader, Gary Reynolds as His instruments. Pray for safe travel. Thanks so much for your love for our pastors and allowing them this time away to connect with one another and our loving Father.

The following weekend, March 5 – 7, we will have our long awaited Spiritual Renewal Weekend. In January I sensed great anticipation for this weekend. I am sure the enemy of our souls would like to see the weather issues we had in January stifle the sense of holy discontent among our District family. Let’s commit ourselves to not let that happen. As we draw near to God, he promised to draw near to us ... and his touch brings about life change. For all the details of the weekend schedule, go to www.neonaz.com . If you have not already done so in January, be sure to get your reservations in for the Ladies’ brunch and the Primetimers’ dinner by Monday.

Do you have people in your church you would like to see our nominating committee consider for District office – Advisory Board, Missions and Youth Councils, Sunday School/Discipleship Board, etc. Send me the names and tell me why they should be considered and I will share the information with our Nominating Committee.

Have a blessed weekend! You are loved!

Dave McKellips