I started attending First Federated Church in the early ‘70s. The music program was a draw and I joined choir. I have continued to be involved with choir since those early days. Other areas in which I’ve served are: Women’s Circle as a member, chairman and substitute Bible teacher; several years on the Women’s Executive Council as chairman of the fall conference and later the Christmas tea; Deaconess for 2 terms; and various Bible study groups. I am currently in a FED group for women.

I see the role of deaconess as one of service. As a deaconess, I can fulfill my goal of serving the church, especially the women of the church.

John started attending Federated with his family as a fourth grader in 1980 and interrupted his pursuit of a MDIV by joining the paid staff in 1996. His constant and ongoing desire is to serve the Lord with the gifts and abilities He has given him.

John oversees the audio, lighting, video, newspaper, website, information technologies, and general technical and media ministries for First Federated. In addition, he has served in the past as the interim Worship Leader on two different occasions and regularily finds himself assisting with other special projects and ministries as needed.

John finds it gratifying to see, experience and be part of the impact the church’s ministry has in the lives of people. He enjoys working with church leadership and his ministry team and finds fulfillment ministering along-side them. You’ll often hear him say he can’t do it alone.

John and the many volunteers in the Media Ministries make every attempt to maximize their personal skills and abilities, and the capabilities of the equipment and facilities to meet the technical and media needs of our ministry.

Mentors in John’s life include his father, Terry, Joe Lightfoot, Michael Mudlaff, and John Maxwell.

John is also an avid book reader. He enjoys reading a wide variety of books including science fiction, fiction, leadership, management and ministry related books. You can browse a catalogue of his books at his LibraryThing.

One of his favorite passages in the Bible is Proverbs 3:5-6.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Pray that God would oversee the various details involved in the many areas of ministry where John serves. Pray also for the many faithful volunteers who work with John.

John’s Family

John and his wife, Jayne, have been married since 1999 and have two sons, Ean and Evan, and one daughter, Emma.

Visit John’s website johncstark.com to read his blog (which he is learning to use), see additional photos, and discover other links he maintains. He’d love for you to stop by and leave some comments!

My wife Vicki and I have 3 boys: Dylan (13), Cole (11) and Jesse (9). These boys keep us very busy and we have both served in many areas with the youth and our children. I am currently working with the 5th and 6th graders in Xtreme on Sunday as a small group leader. I also serve on Wednesdays with Howie in the Junior High program. In the past I have also helped out in the AWANA program.
I would like to see our Youth Ministry continue to grow and attract new kids. I know these kids are the future of our church and our country. I do not think there is any more important area for the church to focus our time, talent and treasures in than youth ministries.

Over many years at FFC I have taught Sunday school, worked in the nursery, and AWANA. I have been a Circle chairman, and Bible Study leader. My family went to Russia as missionaries through Global Outreach Mission working with Agape Medical Mission over five years. Now I am the missionary correspondent for Deborah Circle, a Titus Mom for MOPS, and a member of an Adult Bible Fellowship and FED group.

One of the goals that I would like to see is the remodeling of Fellowship Hall so it can be a beautiful, suitable place for wedding receptions and luncheons. Also, that the people at First Federated, including me, will follow the command of Jesus to love one another from John 13: 34, 35-Not just the people here at church, but our neighbors, co-workers, and whoever else we meet.

My ministry involvement with FFC is being on the Women’s Association board in several capacities of Women’s Ministry Council and Deaconess Board. In the past I have helped with Bible School and have been in choir.

Things I’d like to see here at First Federated are: unity of the body, people sharing their faith, an expanding missions program and support to families to help them grow in the Lord . This is especially important to me since I’ve seen how the local church has played a part in the lives of my family.

Here at FFC, I have worked in the Youth Ministry for approximately 5 years, leading small group girls Bible studies, counseling, leading various student ministry teams and recently co-leading the Youth Pastor search committee. Bob and I have been FED group leaders and are part of the Cornerstone ABF.

Mentoring younger moms is an area I have been active in leading in another organization. I would love to see a similar or larger program at FFC that would include support and ministry to single moms as well. Working with young moms has been both a blessing and joy. I would also love to see even more age-integrated ministry opportunities at FFC because I have benefi ted so much from working with youth myself and know that others would be blessed as I have been.

I realized that I joined that church and I had not accepted Christ as my Savior. One day while listening to Bible Tract Echoes on the radio, Paul Levine said, “If you are not sure you would go to Heaven if you died today, bow down in front of the radio and ask God to forgive you your sins and ask Christ into your heart and life.” I bowed in front of the radio and confessed my sins and asked for forgiveness. I know Christ changed my life that day. He gave me a love for Him and a love for His people.

I have attended First Federated Church since 1974 and have worked Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings, and Wednesday nights in most of the rooms from nursery to pre-kindergarten. I have helped many years in VBS and helped in the MOPS program since it started. Many of the years at FFC, I have gone to circle, was circle chairman, helped as treasurer and missionary correspondent in several circles.

I see a lot of good things in our church. I would like to see more involvement of the members of FFC. I would like to see stronger, more dedicated Christians. I would like to see more genuine love for each other. Sometimes I am awestruck when I think that God chose us for Himself, to live for Him, and to serve others. I think how can I or anyone settle for less?

After college, I taught school for two years and then went to the Philippines as a Short Term Assistant with Wycliffe Bible Translators to teach in their K-6 school. After two years, I became a member of WBT and continued to teach in the Philippines until 1989.

I joined First Federated in 1993 and have served in many areas. I play in a bell choir and direct another, played in the orchestra for a short time, and have been in musicals and dramas. I am a Circle Chairman and have been Missionary Correspondent. I am a member and past officer of Ezra Fellowship ABF. I have led a group of women through the FED materials and we are now working through A Purpose Driven Life. I am on the Mission Council. I have served in the nursery on Wednesday evenings and presently help with clean-up in the kitchen after the Wednesday meal. I have been a deaconess in the past and enjoyed helping with communion, baptisms, funeral dinners, and preparing meals. Once a month, I return to the little church where I grew up and play organ for the service—they don’t mind my mistakes!

My goal as a deaconess is to see more of you involved in areas which will enrich you and the church. We all have a responsibility to support the church with our talents.

While visiting with them, it became so evident that God was their number-one priority. A few days after their visit, I got down on my knees and received Christ into my life.

I have served two prior terms as deaconess, been involved in women’s circles, and attend Koinonia ABF.

My desire is to see spiritual growth in our church, resulting in my involvement to serve and reach out to others.

I had been involved in the Singles’ ministry at First Federated for almost 10 years and continue to attend Tuesday night Bible Study. I assist with the homebound tape ministry. Over the years I have worked in the nursery with one, two and four year old classes. Currently, I co-teach a Kindergarten class. I also love and would not miss my Adult Sunday School class! Even when the topic is “Grandparenting” and I am single with no children. But no problemo – I’m just “sitting on the edge of my seat” (Hal Lindsey calls it our “launching pad”) anxious for Christ to call for His “Bride” at any moment!

My heart’s desire and passion is to continue to be an active member of the Body of Christ at First Federated which means being led by the Spirit, a prayer warrior, being missions-minded, caring, giving and teachable (in God’s Word and by His Spirit).

I was raised in a church-going home, and knew that Jesus died for the sins of the world, but it wasn’t until I was in college that I realized that I was a sinner, and that Jesus had to die for my sins. I didn’t understand that HE was the only way to heaven, or that I couldn’t get to heaven on my own good behavior. I have since come to understand that eternal life is only through believing in Him and His finished work on the cross. By placing my trust in Him, I now have peace and joy, and will enjoy eternal life with Him forever.

I am currently working with the high school Heirborn Youth Group and co-leading one of the small groups. I have also enjoyed singing in the choir! Gene and I have been in a FED group, or small group Bible study of some sort most of our married life. We appreciate the support and accountability that a small group provides.

I am interested in serving the women of our church through prayer and friendship, and would be honored to serve as deaconess.

I love this church body dearly. We have stayed through the good and the bad and God continues to show us that He has too. It is my prayer to see the church desire and conform to the power of prayer in the body of believers. Without the connection with God through prayer and study of His word, much of our work will be for nothing. I also pray for our church body to be able to share individual hurts and needs with one another and know that their needs will be met.

We have been attending FFC since 2001. God used my parents to bring us here during the six years we were caregivers for them. I have been in missionary circles all of this time; being a chairperson and on the board for two terms. I help serve Wednesday night suppers, am a member of the Galilean ABF, and work with the Young Couples ABF. We also meet with a FED Group for Bible study and prayer. I am helping train leaders for Just Give Me Jesus follow-up Bible studies. I am also usher chairperson for this April revival event and have been encouraging other people to get involved. I have been a deaconess too. I thank God for bringing us to FFC.

I appreciate the Word being presented at FFC. My goal is that all attenders will be born again believers and go out with the name of JESUS on their lips daily sharing with people they meet. I pray they will be in the Word daily and praying to be the people God wants them to be. John 3:16, Romans 12:1,2

I have been involved in AWANA for over 10 years at FFC. Currently I am in my 7th year as AWANA Commander. My husband Keith and I teach 1st grade second hour in the Children’s Ministry. I have been involved in leadership of MOPS, VBS and our Homebuilders ABF. This summer I will be traveling to Kenya for the fifth time on a short term mission trip.

In 26 years of attending FFC I have grown to love this church. We have been blessed with many opportunities to serve Christ within the church and outsides its walls. I would like to see us “step out of the boat” of our comfort zone and see where God would lead us. The possibilities are endless and our time is short!

After several months of attending, I finally yielded to God’s call. I confessed my sins, asked for forgiveness and asked Jesus into my heart. One thing that was evident to me after taking this step of faith is that I no longer had the fear of death that had been present. My husband, Tom, and I have been involved in the ministry here ever since.

I have been an AWANA Cubbie teacher and AWANA secretary, and am currently director of AWANA T&T. I have also volunteered for various roles in Sunday School and served as Circle chairman, Circle of Concern leader and Deaconess.

One area in our church that has been a concern for me is the young adult age group (18-25). I am excited that we are bringing on a new pastor that will make this age group part of his focus.

I have been a member of First Federated for 38 years and have served as a Deacon and have sung in the choir and various musicals. We need to have a broader diversity in our local body ministering to all groups of people for the glory of God.

We are currently serving in K-4 Sunday School during first hour on Sundays, and with the Xtreme 5th and 6th graders on Wednesday nights. My goal is to be open to God’s will, and serve in whatever way He sees fit.

Debby and I started attending FFC in the early 1980’s. We attend the Berean ABF. I have served in Children’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, and as a Deacon.

My goal is that the spiritual light glowing from FFC will spread throughout our neighborhood, city and world.

We returned to Des Moines in 1975 and retired from the military. In April 1975, we began attending First Federated and became members in 1976. As a family, both Priscilla and I have been active in many levels of FFC ministry. I have taught 4th and 5th grade Sunday School, worked with VBS, served on the Deacon Board, volunteered full-time for over two years, and worked nearly 14 years on staff as Building Manager.

It is personally exciting to be given the opportunity to serve our church and congregation, if elected. We are moving into a new phase and future, without DMCS and with changing ministries, as we continue to reach for our objectives. I want to see our church grow as we strive for fiscal responsibility, unity and God’s will.

I grew up at FFC and have participated in five mission trips to Mexico, two Acquire the Fire youth conferences, Urbana, two men’s retreats and numerous Wednesday night classes. I currently serve in the children’s ministry, using my IT skills to assist in the audio-visual side and develop Power Point presentations and help with other programs and ministries as needed.

If it be God’s will for me to serve in the capacity of Deacon, I would be honored to be given more opportunities for service with dedicated believers and hopefully be a witness to encourage others in our church body, both youth and adults, to participate and experience the blessing of being obedient to the call of the Lord.

I also got involved in the Baptist Student Center where I began to mature in Christ. I believe God saved me as a child as stated in Matthew 3:18, “Truly I say unless you are converted and become like children, you shall not enter the kingdom of God.” I believe God looked after me even though I was not concerned with Him.

My wife Pat and I presently help serve Wednesday night suppers, teach an ABF class for young married couples and for those who are planning to be married, attend a FED Group, and I have served as a deacon for the last three years.

I would like to see people mature in Christ and demonstrate that maturity by being active in the ministry we have been given. I would also like to see growth in the body, not only from believers looking for a church home, but mostly from those that are new converts. I would like to see our church minister to those in need. Lastly, I would like to see a more integrated church body.

After high school, I attended 3 years of Bible College. My wife, Peg, and I have been married for 42 years. Two of our three children also attend First Federated Church; our son, Phil (wife Amanda and children, Ethan and Cora) and our daughter Pam (husband Ben Heinzleman and children, Delphie and Ayla).

I have served in several areas at First Federated including AWANA when it was first started, as a deacon, and on the search committee for Pastor Roger Poupart. I have also been an usher for the past 12 years.

Things I’d like to see happen here at FFC include upgrading the building, seeing the mortgage be paid off, continued unity among the body of believers and for FFC to become a brighter light in our community and the world.

I was president of my singles’ class for a number of years and was also president of our young married class.  I have served in the Youth Ministry and the Children’s department.  I previously served as deacon in 2000-2003.  It was a privilege to serve on the Board.  One thing I really enjoyed was serving shut-in communion to the elderly.  Currently, I help on Wednesday nights in the AWANA program.

I am excited about the possibility of serving as a deacon again.  One of the biggest goals I have for Federated is to see our debt eliminated.  I am excited that we are close to being debt-free.  I believe it is important to be financially sound and use our resources wisely.

My wife Dannetta and I are members of the Galilean ABF class. We spent five years in the WHO class and were truly blessed by and educated by the Senior Saints of FFC. I taught the WHO class one year and have served as president of my current ABF.

I would like to see the deacons involved in personal ministry, in the form of offering their time and talents in carpentry, plumbing and electrical work, to the single moms who attend FFC.

I am weak without Him but He has given me the strength to participate in mission trips to Bogalusa, Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina and to Monterey, Mexico to work on projects there. I also enjoy helping prepare and serve our Wednesday night meals and whatever other opportunity those Porter men throw my way.

My family and I have been attending FFC for nine years and I been part of the media team directing the television program and working on various video projects and direct TV as needed. I have been a part of the FFC Celebration Choir, a leader of the Cornerstone ABF for the past five years and a Deacon for the past three.

I would like to see continued growth for our church as the Spirit continues to move among His people. I would like to see more of the congregation becoming involved in various ministries. My family has experienced some difficult times in the past and has needed the help of the church. I look forward to the opportunity to be in a position where I can help others who may be in similar circumstances.

Currently my wife Suzanne and I serve in the choir, Worship Ministry, and every Sunday in the infant nursery. In the past I have been in several musicals, run a camera and directed in the television ministry, and served in leadership in my ABF. I currently serve on the Deacon Board.
I believe that First Federated is a wonderful place that God placed in Des Moines for a special mission. We, as members and regular attenders, must work every day to show God’s love and truth to this city and state, and it is up to each of us to witness to what He has done in each of our lives. I am committed to the leadership that is being shown in this body to reach this community for Him. Together with Christ, we can catch fire and grow.

My growth as a Christian has continued and I have gone from being a pew warmer to actively contributing to the ministry at FFC through helping teach in men’s ministry and the youth group. I am meeting with other men of FFC each week and have grown tremendously from their impact on my life.

I would like to see a greater focus on service and outreach from our church members and long to see the hearts of men in FFC turned to their families and their Father’s heart. This can happen through men finding passion, acceptance, and challenging by fellow believers.

Darlene and I married in 1960 and we have 2 daughters. I am retired from Firestone Tire, in Des Moines where I worked for 36 years. We joined First Federated in 1989 and have been members of the Galilean Class for most of that time. I was co-president of the Galilean Class for 3 years, and have been a deacon for the past 3 years.

I would like to see growth in First Federated, not only in numbers, but in outreach to the community and the world.

I have had the distinct privilege to serve as an FFC Elder over the last year. The Elder Board has been a very enriching and humbling experience working with a group of godly men in a concerted effort to serve the Lord. As a physician, I have helped lead short-term medical missions to the Dominican Republic and Kenya, Africa. I serve on the FFC Missions Council where my responsibilities are centered on organizing ABF opportunities for our missionaries, as well as assisting in Missions Festival planning.

My goals for FFC would include growth within our congregation in several ways including number of people, level of commitment, and spirituality. This would entail reaching out to unbelievers, as well as continued support and nurturing of believers. I also have a deep appreciation for our commitment to missions, and would strive for continued strong support of this area. I would be encouraged to see our congregation become even more involved in both local and international missions.

For the past few years I have served as an usher and helped on projects such as the recent Willow Creek Summit. In past years, I have held the offices of Deacon and Elder, as well as teaching 5th and 6th grade Sunday School and working with the boys brigade.

I believe we are at a point in our ministry where we have in place a great staff that is dedicated, and a facility that is underutilized. We need to explore ways to share what we all love about our ministry and involve our congregation in growing the church and outreach. I also would like to see the church set goals for paying off the church debt to free funds for ministry.

After discharge from the army, I returned to Iowa and married the love of my life, Edith Bowen, in 1948. We have been blessed with 4 children, 1 Vietnamese foster son, 13 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. The ministry at FFC has played a key role in their spiritual lives, relationships, and walk with Jesus Christ.

We began attending FFC in 1968. I have served several terms on the elder board; Edith has been involved in Women’s Assn, having served one term as President. We have taught Jr. High groups in the past. I served 4 years as Director of Circle of Concerns, a small groups ministry.

I praise God for our faithful pastoral staff and the challenges being presented to FFC leadership and our dedicated congregation to increase our commitment and clarifying the focus for discipling spiritual growth among our people; for reaching this city, state, nation and world for Jesus Christ. (Matt. 28:19,20) 

Many of you know that I have spent most of my working years as an educator. I have also used those skills at FFC. I currently serve as a substitute for adult ABF teachers when they need assistance as well as leading the Sunday evening study when needed. For a few years I taught the Galilean Class on a regular basis. I am currently serving my 3rd term on the FFC Elder Board.
I see FFC advancing—in the eyes of God—when each member has an increasingly intimate walk with the Lord. I believe the most important thing we can do to further that end is to encourage FFC members to spend time in God’s Word every day. I believe the more we do to get our congregation reading the Word, praying, and worshiping, the more we will fulfill the plan God has for FFC. Ultimately, that is what we all want for FFC – to be all that God has for FFC to be!

One of my goals is to see everyone in our congregation praying at least 5 minutes every day and reading their Bibles a minimum of 5 minutes every day. FFC needs to be a church body with a Christ like servant attitude and a personal commitment to reach people at home and around the world with the Gospel to hasten Christ’s return. In five years I would like to see our annual budget reflect $1 for world evangelism for each $1 spent in local ministry. Another goal is to see us debt free in 5 years or less. It’s going to be a great time to be serving in leadership here at FFC. It will be my joy to serve the body if that is their desire for me.

I first came to Federated in the fall of 1975 as a new believer. Married in 1981, Juli and I joined the Young Married class and have been involved ever since. I’ve been privileged to serve and teach in adult ABF and well as in the youth ministry, and have been an Elder as well. For now I have the honor, along with my wife, to be part of the HUB class for young singles.

My prayer is for the lost and lonely of Des Moines to fill this building. We need to do whatever it takes to get them here, minister to them, and teach them to do the same. I look forward to having trouble finding a parking spot or my favorite pew to sit in! It will take a clear vision, a willing congregation, hard work, and God’s blessing to see it through. I am excited to see what the Lord will do next with First Federated!

I asked my mom what I needed to do so I would go to heaven when I died, and at that time she led me to pray to ask Jesus to forgive me of my sins and to come and live in my heart. Very simple, yet so very life transforming.

Currently, I am involved in music ministry and FFC leadership as an Elder. In the past, I have also worked with youth ministries and gone on short term mission trips.

I would like to see First Federated Church become more focused, equipping people to move on a pathway of spiritual maturity.

Previously, I have had the privilege of serving on the Deacon Board and served in the capacities of treasurer and secretary of the Official Board. Currently, Brenda and I are teaching a first grade Sunday School class and we continue to benefit from being involved in a Fed Group. My hope for First Federated is that there would be unity in our church body and that we would become a church where our love is overflowing and our community would want to be a part of it.

My wife Marie and I have been married for over 29 years and have been members of First Federated Church for nearly 25 years. God has blessed us with three great kids, Brian, Kelly and Blake. I have been actively involved in the Worship Ministry at First Federated most of the 25 years, specifically as a member of the choir, vocal ensembles, and men’s quartet. I have also served as a Deacon and Elder and am currently Elder Chairman.
My main priorities as an Elder are to provide oversight for First Federated Church, to support the Senior Pastor and staff and to promote key initiatives that support evangelism, spiritual maturity, and church growth.

Over the years I have served one term as Deacon and two terms as Elder, and am currently the Church Treasurer. I have been president of the Homebuilders ABF class, served as a T&T leader, and been involved in the evangelism ministry. Currently I am a youth small group leader and teach and coordinate the Good Sense ministry.
I would like to see balance in the congregation demographically and in spiritual maturity. We must reach out to the unbeliever, help young adults find relevance for their Christian faith, and help all believers continually mature in their faith. Prayer is of vital importance to follow God’s leading. While I support world missions, having been on numerous short-term missions trips, I also want our body to be so excited about the Lord Jesus that we can’t help but tell those we meet every day. It is very exciting to see the debt paid off, so we can look ahead and save for the future needs of the ministry.

I am currently chairman of the Board of Anderson Erickson Dairy Co. and chairman of the Des Moines International Airport Board. I served on the Board of the Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM) for twenty five years and have served on many local civic and business related boards here in Des Moines and nationally. I have served one term on the First Federated Church Elder Board and am currently Vice-Chairman of the Official Board.
I feel I can continue to help the First Federated Church Elder Board in the area of executive ability and through my many contacts in the community. My specific goals coincide with the goals the church has adopted: I will continue to push to retire the church debt and remain debt free. I strongly believe in missions, both local and international. I believe in these times that outreach to the unsaved and discipleship of believers are two very important goals. These goals should be a matter of prayer by the whole body at First Federated Church.

From 1982 to 2002 our family were FFC commissioned missionaries through New Tribes Missions. Since returning to Des Moines, we have been involved in the Berean ABF and I have served as class president and substitute teacher. I also serve as a youth group leader and teacher on Wednesday night and am completing my first term on the Elder Board.

I would like to see FFC continue with the direction and momentum of church growth as envisioned by the Elder Board and the Equipping/Pastoral Staff and encourage all members of our church body to exercise their spiritual gifts.

I first trusted Christ as my savior at a Vacation Bible School when I was six years old.  Although I wasn’t able to attend church as a child, I finally came to an understanding of what a relationship with Jesus Christ meant during my teen years. 
God has gifted me with a passion to help children come to know Him and to learn to love Him with all of their heart!  Our kids here at Federated are NOT the church of tomorrow!  They are a very big part of the here and now church!  As they learn more about God, Jesus and the Bible, God is choosing to use them NOW to witness for Him and serve Him!

A little bit about me personally

My number one hobby is spending time with my family… my husband, Terry, is a great partner and support in ministry.  You’ll often find us serving together – whether we’re teaching, acting, singing (with actions!) or doing many of the behind the scenes jobs. 

We have four REALLY GREAT kids

Meredith is married to a wonderful guy named Dave and they make their home in the mountains of Colorado – they are officially board bums.  And, yes, they work too!  That’s a good thing as they just had their first baby in May! Welcome to our world, Caden Wesley!!!
Megan is working toward her nursing degree.  She serves in our Preschool Ministry and is much loved by our toddlers. 
Ryan is working toward a degree in the drama world.  (He’s pretty good at that drama stuff)  We’re proud that he’s also a member of the Iowa National Guard.  Iowa State is now who we are rooting for… as that’s his college of choice. 
Justin, our youngest, is a senior in high school.  He loves music (percussion and singing).  He’s been a faithful part of our media team;  running camera, helping with sound and lights for various ministries. 

It’s a joy to be a part of the FFC staff team.  God is doing amazing things here and I’m humbled to be a small part of it!

Mike served as senior pastor of Albany Baptist Church in Ohio from 1993 till October 2006, when he accepted the call to become senior pastor at First Federated.

He and his wife, Connie, have three sons. One is grown and lives in Chicago. The other two are still at home and are students in the West Des Moines school system. Pastor Mike enjoys riding his motorcycle, doing yard work and studying the church – how and what makes churches effective. His study of the church has led to some consulting work with congregations seeking counsel regarding growth and structure.

Having served four years overseas with Operation Mobilization, John has honed his talents and spiritual gifts. He’s also worked in secular jobs and been involved in several inner-city ministries. He’s had the opportunity to work with people from a variety of background and situations.

As a senior, I became increasingly uncertain of my future. God engineered circumstances for an unsolicited book of prayers and Scripture to come into my hands. A passage from John 14:27 made me painfully aware of needing something more in my life. In this passage, Jesus is comforting and encouraging His disciples near the end of His earthly ministry. He tells them, “I give my peace unto you, let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

Jesus was speaking directly to me. Feelings of uncertainty and fear about my future were evident in my life and I wanted to have the kind of peace Christ was talking about. Earlier in my life I had cognitively understood that Christ had died on the cross. But it wasn’t until I read these words that I placed my trust in Christ who died for my sins and rose again to provide for me eternal life.

I pursued a college degree in Recreation and held several jobs before moving to Florida to become an Investment Advisor and Stock Broker. While there, I became increasingly involved in a local church. Two families were instrumental in my life, as they modeled and lived out their faith. I became involved in Adult Sunday School and participated in two small groups. I had many opportunities to teach adult classes and lead small groups as I continued growing in my faith.

As I began to recognize and develop my spiritual gifts, God began placing a call on my life. It was as if He was challenging me to invest my time and energy in something that would have eternal significance. If I was going to work as hard as I was at a job, then the job should be for Him, working for His kingdom.

Subsequently, I pursued further education at Dallas Theological Seminary, where I graduated with a Master’s of Theology. At Dallas I received the solid Biblical and theological foundation from which to do ministry. And, thus began my path toward full-time Christian service.

Prior to coming to First Federated in June of 2004, I served as the Associate Pastor of Small Groups and Christian Education at Elgin (Illinois) Bible Church. One of my main focuses at the church was joining alongside a group of committed men and women who desired to use their gifts and life experiences in building up others in their faith.

“The most significant impact (of my training and experience) has been the growing understanding that knowledge alone won’t save a person, and knowledge alone is not what religion is about. If the knowledge we gain on a Sunday morning doesn’t make it the 18 inches from our heads to our hearts, and work [itself] out in transforming our lives, it is of very little use.”

“The Church, this church, is a ministry of the entire local body of believers. Each person has an important role AND an important responsibility. The Bible tells us that God put each and every person here as part of His plan for His purpose. We all need to discover our specific individual purpose, be equipped for it, and be enthusiastically active in pursuing it as a part of the whole body at First Federated.”

My passion is encouraging and developing Christians to grow in their faith and become true disciples of Christ.

Lightfoot Trivia

Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Extended Family: Mom and Dad (Rex and Betty)
Older brother (Jeff)
Younger sister (Jenise)
Th.M.: Dallas Theological Seminary
B.A.: Recreation Truman State University
Previous Positions:Associate Pastor of Small Groups and Christian Education
Vice President of Project Support
Stock Broker
Human Resources Manager
Recommended Reading: My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers
Any of A.W. Tozer’s works
Far from Home by Joseph Stowell
The Sacred Romance by Brent Curtis and John Eldridge
Tender Warrior by Stu Weber
Ordering Your Private World by Gordon MacDonald
Favorite Bible Verse: John 14:27
Spiritual Gifts: Teaching, Leadership, Encouragement, Shepherding, Helping, Faith
Favorite Drink: Hot coffee
Favorite Sports: Enjoy all sports. Recently taken up golf.

Pastor Bill received Christ as his personal Savior as a 9-year-old child when his mother led him to the Lord. After many years in the business world, Bill accepted a call as Assistant Pastor at FFC. Prior to coming on staff at Federated, he served in visitation ministries for 40+ years as a layman.

Bill uses his spiritual gifts by ministering encouragement and hope to those with physical needs and whose age has become a burden to them. He is continually seeking those with the desire and gift of mercy to join him as lay people in visitation ministry. You can be involved by investing time visiting at least one shut-in per month. . for more information. Pray for wisdom for Pastor Bill as he strives to allocate his time as effectively as possible to meet the many pressing needs of our congregation.

Interesting Facts about Bill

Main Mentor:His father. He encourages dad’s to stay involved with their kids. You will make a major contribution in their lives, one way or the other!
Favorite Authors: Max Lucado, Charles Swindoll and Warren Wiersbe.
Life Verse: Hebrews 13:5

Bill’s Wife

Bill’s wife, Clarice, plays a major part in his ministry. One of her major enjoyments is sending encouraging cards to people who are sick, celebrating a birthday, or for any reason! She also enjoys crafts and flowers.

My passion is Christ, family, and ministry–in that order. My faith journey began in Northwest Iowa on the family farm. I am deeply indebted to my parents for my godly heritage. Dad is still my hero, even though he’s changed residences recently. (He went to heaven).

In the larger scheme of things, it won’t be long before I’ll join my father. My goal is to take as many people with me as possible–and to help them mature in Christ as they prepare for that ultimate journey. Life can be tough. It is important that we “do it together!”

God has been kind to me. I have a loving wife, four godly children, two great sons-in-law, and two special grandsons. And my ministry life has enriched me immeasurably through the development of relationships that are loving and lasting–from the Pacific Northwest to the Ohio River Valley.

I am accessible. If you want to talk, email me. Let’s get together and share our life stories. Less important than impressing you with my resume’ (I’ll spare you my credentials in this bio) is letting you take a closer look at the real me. We may impress people from afar, but we can only impact them up close.

In discussing our stories, we’ll be able to discover the bigger story—God’s. And that’s the one that ultimately matters most.

Michael Howland holds a master’s degree in counseling from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. His undergraduate degree is in music and Bible from Grace University.

He and his wife, Julie, have been married 10 years. Together they enjoy exercise, travel, shopping, eating out and seeing touring Broadway shows. They also enjoy spending time with their toddler twins.

60 Plus | Colleen Beckley, ext100

Address, Phone or Name Change | Julie Denger, ext116

Adult Bible Fellowships | Pat Anderson, ext129

Adult Groups | Pat Anderson, ext129

Audio-Visual Equipment | John Stark, ext140

AWANA & Bible Buddies | Mary Tesser, ext151

Baptism | Julie Denger, ext116

Building Issues | Tom Hefner (Initial Contact), ext111

Caring Disciples Ministry | Julie Denger, ext116

CD of a Messages | John Stark, ext140

Children’s Ministries | KidZone, Birth through 4th Grade
Mary Tesser, ext151

Church Library | June Jaehnel, 262.2500 or Ann Quick, 274.5795

Circles | for Women | Pat Harker, 262.3396

Clothes Closet | West Gym Hall | John Porter, ext122

Copies/Transparencies | Colleen Beckley, ext100

Counseling Appointment or Referral | Julie Denger, ext116

Deacons’ Fund | Deacon of the Month, ext139, (members & regular attenders only)

Death in Church Family | Julie Denger, ext116

Display Cases | Colleen Beckley, ext100

Expense Reimbursement | Check with department director or Tom Hefner, ext111

Flower Ministry | Diana Philpott, 263.0028

Food Pantry | West Gym Hall | John Porter, ext122

Friendly Fellowship Monthly Get Togethers | Mary Jo Staniger, 243.0558

Hospital visitation | Julie Denger, ext116

Illness | Julie Denger, ext116

Kideo Video | Room 106 | Mary Tesser, ext151

Kitchen Information | Pat Harker, 262.3396 or Harriet Labertew, 276.1980
Reservations for kitchen are made with a Room Reservation Form.

Media Ministries | audio, lighting, IMAG, web site, publications | John Stark, ext140

Membership | Julie Denger, ext116

Missions & Outreach | John Porter, ext122 | Jean Crabbs, ext117

Missionary Sewing | Lois Grove, 254.1141

MOPS (Mothers of Pre-schoolers) | Miriam Hager, 251.6964

New Baby | Mary Tesser, ext151

Newspaper Deadline: Tuesday at Noon | Newspaper or John Stark, ext140

Nursery Questions | Mary Tesser, ext151

Parent/Child Dedications | Mary Tesser, ext151

Parish Nurse | Marabel Kersey, ext127

Prayer Ministries | John Porter, ext122

Prayer Request | Julie Denger, ext116

Preteen Ministry (Xtreme) | 5th & 6th Grade | Sherri Stufflebeem, ext137

Room Reservations | Colleen Beckley, ext100

Short-Term Missions | John Porter, ext122

Small Groups | Pat Anderson, ext129

Sports Ministries | Perry Bleadorn, 279.2637

Support Groups | Pat Anderson, ext129

Table Reservation for Foyer | Colleen Beckley, ext100

Teen Ministry (Heirborn) | Junior & Senior High | Michael Howland, ext115

Visitation & Compassion Ministry | Julie Denger, ext116

Volunteer Opportunities | Julie Denger, ext116 | Colleen Beckley, ext100

Website | Webmaster or John Stark, ext140

Weddings | Tom Hefner (Initial Contact), ext111

Wednesday Night Meals | Tammy Claiborne, 282.8505

Women Mentoring | Pat Yoho, 279.6553 | Kathy Anderson, 276.5946

Women’s Ministries | General Information | Deb Blackman, 255.2122

Worship Ministry | Choir, Band, Drama, Bells, etc. | Deb Boscaljon, ext153

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In God the Father Almighty, Creator (Colossians 1:15-29; Isaiah 43:1,7) and Sovereign of the universe (Romans 8:28-30; Jeremiah 18:6). That He is a Spirit (John 4:24) eternal (Dueteronomy 33:27; I Timothy 1:17). That He is altogether Holy (Leviticus 11:44; I Peter 1:16). That He knows all things (Matthew 6:8; Psalms 139; Romans 11:33-36) and we rejoice that He hears the prayers of those that call upon Him (Isaiah 55:3; 59:1; Psalms 34:15; Jeremiah 33:3).

In the Deity of Jesus Christ (John 1:1, 14, 18; 8:58; 10:30; 14:9; Colossians 2:9,10; Phil. 2:5-10), His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38), His substitutionary atonement (Isaiah 53; John 1:29; Romans 5:8, 10, 11; Mark 16:19), His bodily resurrection (Mat. 28:6, 9; Luke 24:6, 31,32; John 20:21; Acts 1:1-11; Mark 16:19). His intercession For us at the Father’s right hand (Mark 16:19; Acts 7:55-56; Hebrews 7:25; 9:24; Romans 8:24), His personal coming again as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (John 14:1-3; I Tim 6:14, 15; Titus 2:11-13; Revelations 19:11-16).

In the Personality and work of the Holy Spirit (John 14:15-26; 16:7-15). That He convicts us of sin, brings us to repentance and seals us in Christ (Ephesians 1:13,14). He is Inspirer and the Interpreter of Scripture (II Tim. 3:16; II Peter 1:21), the Guide and Comfort of the child of God.

That God created man in His own image (Gen. 1:26,27), that man sinned (Genesis 2:17; Genesis 3; I Corinthians 15:21, 22; Romans 5:12-21; Romans 3:10,23; 6:23; 7:24; 8:2) and brought upon himself physical as well as spiritual death. All have sinned and only through Christ’s redeeming work (II Corinthians 5:17-21; Ephesians 1:7; I John 1:7; Titus 2:14) can man be brought back into fellowship with God.

Salvation is offered to all who will repent of their sins and trust in the Lord Jesus (Acts 16:31; 2:38; 3:19; Luke 24:47 II Peter 3:9; Romans 10:13; John 6:37). They thereby receive Life Everlasting (John 3;36, 17; 5:24; 6:45). Those who ignore or refuse Christ will suffer eternal perdition (Mark 16:16; John 3:18, 36). All men shall stand before God in judgment (II Corinthians 5:10; Romans 14:10; Revelations 20:11-13).

We Believe Scripture teaches that heaven is an actual place (Acts 1:11; II Corinthians 12:1-4; Matthew 5:16; 6:9, 10) even as it teaches that hell is an actual place (Matthew 10:28; Luke 16:23-26; Revelations 20:11-15).

The church is the body of Christ and Christ is its only head (I Corinthians 12:12, 27; Ephesians 5:30; Colossians 1:18; 2:9,10). Every Christian should be baptized (Mark 16:16; Matthew 28:19; Acts 8:12) and come regularly to the Lord’s table (I Corinthians 11:23-26). We have communion every other month as scheduled.

Every member of our church should live a life consistent with Scriptural standards, a separate and peculiar people unto the Lord (II Corinthians 6:9, 10; I Peter 2:9-12). The keeping of the Lord’s day enriches the soul and is a testimony to others of our love for Christ (I Corinthians 16:2; Hebrews 10:19-25).

In Christ’s Commission to preach the gospel both here and to the uttermost parts of the earth (Matthew 28:18-20; John 20:21; Luke 24:47; Acts 1:8). That prayer and tithing are two undergirding arms of the church in its proclamation of the Gospel.

This we believe and by God’s grace seek to follow.