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.
He exposes the congregation to a variety of experiences in music and arts. He works with others in the community to provide additional opportunities. – Bill and Jeannie Reeves
“Working Together For Justice & Mercy” Jim’s leadership of the Board of Worship & Fine Arts is an example of engaging in mission & outreach & building relationships of mutual trust & interdependence, in that he organizes &/or oversees organization of events I trips where church members & guests can come together. In so doing, new friendships are made that can enhance trust & interdependence within the body of Christ. – Malinda Case
Theological “Groundedness” and Ecumenical Orientation: Social Justice and Ecumenism are increasingly important functions of our ministries. Jim has been very supportive of these immerging components of our church life. Jim speaks with confidence and credibility when discussing the importance of following the teachings of Jesus and not being distracted by man-made barriers that create walls of separation and sow seeds of disharmony rather than harmony. Jim preaches and practices love of God and love of all our brothers and sisters (all of God’s children). His is a courageous champion for the love that Jesus taught, and a living testimonial that those who some may reject have a place in God’s kingdom and an important role to play in the life of the church here on earth. Jim encourages all to reach out, be open, and do the mission work of the church. He is an individual who is trusted and respected by all who know him. – Pat & John Durbin
I have seen him go through a series of personal challenges, and I have witnessed his steadfast faith in our Lord, Jesus Christ. The life he has lived, and the kindness with which he has dealt with everyone around him, has been of particular encouragement to me. Watching Jim through these years has been the most consistent Christian testimony I have had. God will continue to use him as he makes himself available to Him, and I am honored to recommend him for any position you may have. Jim just wants to be of service to our Lord. The harvest is so great… – Steven Dale Zukowski
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.
Having a heart for justice and mercy is one of the reasons that he desires to be a part of UCC. Recently he expressed that in the climate of injustice that we are facing these days, we can’t just sit back but need to have a voice and take a stand. We’ve also discussed how he deals with others that have different beliefs or views. We appreciate that he can listen and engage in conversation, but does not push his beliefs or agenda on others, even if they are trying to push their beliefs on him. Again, this is the sensitivity we were talking about earlier. Even with other church members with whom he may not agree, his main objective is to minister to them where they are, and be what they need. His willingness to engage with others allows him to enter into a relationship, which then can build mutual respect and trust. His love for people and his sincerity make him a comfortable person to be around. The gift of hospitality does not come easy to everyone, but seems to be quite natural for Jim. – Rev. Nancy Gunn, Minister of Worship, Church at Cactus; David Gunn, Pastor, Church at Cactus