In an eerily quiet and nearly empty sanctuary, Littleton Adventist Church welcomed their new pastoral team on Sabbath morning, March 21.
While Seventh-day Adventist churches throughout the Rocky Mountain Conference have been closed in compliance with government decisions regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, church life continues, though with inconveniences.
Standing at a social distance, RMC president Ed Barnett offered a dedication prayer over new lead pastor Andy Nash, new associate pastor Chris Morris (who will join the team July 1) and current associate pastor Alise Weber, who is hired locally.
In his sermon Pastor Barnett referenced Matthew 24 about the hope in the second coming of Jesus and signs of the times. “We can see this happening before our eyes,” Barnett said about the Covid–19. “Brothers and sisters, we are living in perilous times today…Jesus is coming soon…we need to live faithful lives for Jesus at the end of times,” he concluded.
“It’s definitely an unusual way to begin a pastoral assignment—not seeing anyone,” said Nash. “But I think for all pastors and churches right now, there’s almost an early-church feel to this—a longing to be together as a church family. I feel so blessed to be able to work with Alise and Chris in ministry together.”
Morris is currently a full-time middle school teacher at Mile High Academy, but says he’s truly excited about his return to pastoral ministry. Morris will lead the worship, youth and visitation ministries at Littleton.
Weber has been children’s pastor at Littleton for two years. “I have seen God’s hand and leading throughout the past year, and I feel so blessed to be working with both pastors Andy Nash and Chris Morris,” she said. “In these unique circumstances, where we are required to be apart, I believe it is God’s timing that we join together now to creatively nurture our congregation.”
Barnett stated that he believes great days lie ahead for the Littleton Church. “They have a tremendous team of pastors. They are very gifted and dedicated,” he added.
Jon Roberts is a member of the LifeSource Adventist Fellowship in Denver, Colorado.
