The comments below support this Mark of Ministry. To read the reference in its entirety, please click on the bold text at the end of each comment.
We have always considered Jim to be very innovative when it comes to ministry. We believe his creativity is one of the qualities that empower the individuals he engages with, which impacts the church body as a whole. We consider this creativity to be the work of the Spirit in Jim’s life. In the churches we’ve had the privilege of serving in with Jim, this creative leadership has helped to facilitate growth and spark new commitments in the life of the church.
In the political climate we live in and the amazing diversity that is our humanity, we’ve seen how Jim connects with all people with compassion, gentleness and sensitivity. Just as we are all on journey and are being conformed to the image of Christ, this has been evident over the many years we’ve known Jim. He has matured in his understanding of who God is, who God has made him to be, and how to be Christ’s presence in this world. This growth has definitely shaped his character, which has ultimately changed how he lives in relationship to others, as well as his work ethic. He has always had a very strong sense of commitment to the church and to his personal relationships. – Rev. Nancy Gunn, Minister of Worship, Church at Cactus; David Gunn, Pastor, Church at Cactus
In addition to working with Jim in various church choirs I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with him in a professional secular woman’s vocal ensemble. I was relieved to find that he brings the same level of professionalism and spirituality to this group as he has to all of the church choirs that we have worked in. It is refreshing to know that Jim’s commitments to quality performance and spirituality transcends “boundaries” and are deeply ingrained facets of his personality. I feel that this embodies both his Spiritual Foundation and Strengthening Inter- and Intra- Personal assets. – Toni and Steven Berg
Jim regularly witnesses to God’s redeeming power in our choir setting, including prayers for us &for by us. He is sensitive to our diverseness. Many of my experiences with Jim are choir related where necessary & appropriate administrative tasks required for effective results are performed efficiently (mostly behind the scenes), so that we’re not confronted with ‘surprises’ reflecting lack of preparation that impede our shared goal of joyfully making a joyful noise. – Malinda Case
He has been instrumental in revitalizing the choir, the Board of Music and Fine Arts and the Care and Concern Committee. Because of his leadership, we have significantly improved our Sunday services by coordinating of the audio-visual equipment and training of the individuals running this equipment. He has organized and inspired members of the Care and Concern Committee by improving the data base and making information accurate and available when needed. He has reached out to lay leaders in the church to provide input to the monthly church newsletter and web page. Jim is a great listener and is always very genuine in his dealings with church members. He is honest and open in facing challenges and recognizing success. Through these leadership efforts our church has a renewed sense of purpose and mission. – Pat & John Durbin
My Calling in This Present Time and Place
Visioning Across the Next 10 Years