For the past two years, I’ve been meeting every Wednesday for lunch with Rick, RESTORATION’s Chair. But this was the last of our regularly scheduled meetings…

Rick is a long-time Austinite, who lives actually no where near our church. He lives downtown near Zilker (I know, right!). So he knows many of the best spots. Needless to say, ours was sort of a culinary tour of Austin!

Over many great meals, we’d grow in our friendship, seek God’s blessings and talk about where we sensed God leading us as a church. I’m so thankful for the time we’ve enjoyed together… And all the good food.

But the way we structure our leadership, members serve on the Council for up to 3-year terms. Then, someone can serve for up to another 3 years as Chair. All-in-all, Rick has served for 6 years on our Council of Elders. This is an especially impressive run given that he and his wife Barbara were among the earliest to feel called to the church (back in ’96 when it was formed as St. Barnabas The Encourager).

We structure our leadership path so that our leaders can rest and to share the burden/joy of leadership with emerging leaders. There is a lot about this system that’s good (Rick is looking forward to spending more time with his wife and traveling) and there are parts that sad…

Like when a regular friendship routine gets disrupted. Thanks Rick. I appreciate your friendship and respect your leadership so much.

*Rick and I pledged to meet monthly to continue our gastrointestinal tour of Austin!