This video announcement and letter is for Liberty Bible Church family rather than for public comment. These are weighty matters and we desire to proceed with respect and kindness as we all process the information. We look to God to lead us all for the next steps and are confident in His provision and grace. Please do not share the video or letter on social media.
Dear Liberty family,
During this week's board meeting, I engaged in an open conversation with the church board and our staff. In October 2000 I became your lead pastor. Before that, I served as your youth pastor, so in all total, I've been with you for 27 incredible years. Being the pastor and shepherd of Liberty Bible has been a supreme honor.
I, along with Michelle, began seeking and listening for the Lord's will because we have felt unsettled. After many prayers, conversations, and counsel, I believe God is releasing me from my call as the lead pastor of Liberty Bible Church. I want you to know how much we love every one of you!
This decision has not been easy because I care deeply for all of you, and I have loved my time with you. I have concluded this is how the Lord is leading me, so I pray you will trust His leadership in my life. As I have taught you, obedience is success, so I am choosing to follow Him. This decision was not made out of a lack of support from the Church Board; they have been very supportive. Truthfully, Liberty is in an amazing place, especially when you consider its ministry, history, facilities, and zero debt to limit future ministry. The future is bright for Liberty Bible. Never lose sight of the promise contained in Romans 8:28 “ And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
I have poured out my heart and life into this community of faith. But I now feel it is best for my family and my beloved church family to have a new leader for the next chapter. I have not accepted another ministry assignment currently. I hope to take some time to rest a bit to be fresh for what God has next for Michelle and me. My heart will remain open to whatever He has next for me.
I hope to use the time I have left with you to thank you, to love you, and celebrate with you all that God has done over so many years. My last Sunday will be August 1st. I want to remind you that Liberty Bible is God's church, and He will lead you through this time of transition and pastoral search. I have stayed in close contact with our District Superintendent, Jerry Kester. He will provide practical help for the Church Board during the transition. The Nazarene Church has a good process for helping churches transition well.
Finally, I ask you to honor God and my investment by exercising the fruits of Spirit expressed in Galatians 5:22-25 “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.”
Keep loving each other, and keep your hearts and eyes set on Jesus. I will love you forever!
Jesus is the Way,
Pastor Larry Rounsley
If you have questions, please contact the church office.
During this week's board meeting, I engaged in an open conversation with the church board and our staff. In October 2000 I became your lead pastor. Before that, I served as your youth pastor, so in all total, I've been with you for 27 incredible years. Being the pastor and shepherd of Liberty Bible has been a supreme honor.
I, along with Michelle, began seeking and listening for the Lord's will because we have felt unsettled. After many prayers, conversations, and counsel, I believe God is releasing me from my call as the lead pastor of Liberty Bible Church. I want you to know how much we love every one of you!
This decision has not been easy because I care deeply for all of you, and I have loved my time with you. I have concluded this is how the Lord is leading me, so I pray you will trust His leadership in my life. As I have taught you, obedience is success, so I am choosing to follow Him. This decision was not made out of a lack of support from the Church Board; they have been very supportive. Truthfully, Liberty is in an amazing place, especially when you consider its ministry, history, facilities, and zero debt to limit future ministry. The future is bright for Liberty Bible. Never lose sight of the promise contained in Romans 8:28 “ And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
I have poured out my heart and life into this community of faith. But I now feel it is best for my family and my beloved church family to have a new leader for the next chapter. I have not accepted another ministry assignment currently. I hope to take some time to rest a bit to be fresh for what God has next for Michelle and me. My heart will remain open to whatever He has next for me.
I hope to use the time I have left with you to thank you, to love you, and celebrate with you all that God has done over so many years. My last Sunday will be August 1st. I want to remind you that Liberty Bible is God's church, and He will lead you through this time of transition and pastoral search. I have stayed in close contact with our District Superintendent, Jerry Kester. He will provide practical help for the Church Board during the transition. The Nazarene Church has a good process for helping churches transition well.
Finally, I ask you to honor God and my investment by exercising the fruits of Spirit expressed in Galatians 5:22-25 “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.”
Keep loving each other, and keep your hearts and eyes set on Jesus. I will love you forever!
Jesus is the Way,
Pastor Larry Rounsley
If you have questions, please contact the church office.