A Moment With Pastor Fred

It is the recommendation of our pulpit committee that we call Anthony Lange as our next pastor. For years our strategic plan has been for me to step aside as the teaching pastor when I turn 70 (April 2027). It is time for me to pass the baton to a new generation. On May 4, the pulpit committee discussed this during ABF at a Family Chat.

• If called Anthony would begin in January 2026. The church has been saving money over the years to support 2 pastors for a period of time. He will join HBC’s pastoral team with a specific job description and duties to be finalized before he begins in January. We believe Anthony is biblically qualified to be an elder. It’s our desire for him to adjust to HBC under elder mentorship. Remember, Anthony is not me. God has uniquely gifted him. He is committed to HBC’s doctrines, values and principles.
• My plan is not to leave HBC, only semi-retire. I plan to continue as part of the elder team. Given Anthony’s desire to purchase his own house, leadership is discussing the possibility of Sue and me remaining in the parsonage for a period of time. Details and compensation for such an arrangement would need to be worked out during the transition period. The bottom line: I look forward to supporting Anthony and           his ministry.  
• June 8 Anthony and Kali will give their testimonies at 9:30 am in the auditorium. June 15 we will have a question-answer time from 9-10:15 am. Anthony will preach in both worship services. A special business meeting will then be convened June 15 asking the congregation to vote on this proposal. If you have questions, please feel free to ask the pulpit committee: Paul Krepps, Doug Troxell, Joe Hart or myself.