When we moved to the Tampa area after Hurricane Katrina uprooted us from our final semester at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, we knew we wanted to get connected quickly to a body of like believers. We found a wonderful home at First Baptist Temple Terrace. Pastor Jeff was a wonderful leader and a Godly man, and as volunteers in the children’s department we had the opportunity to fall in love with his precious little girls- and his whole family.  But not too long ago, God called them to a new place of service. Trusting in His wonderful timing, our church joined together to pray for a new leader, a pastor, a shepherd, a man of integrity whom we could follow with confidence.

Today, we celebrated God’s provision in calling a new man to lead, a man to cast vision and to walk this journey with us as we desire to reach our community and the world.

What an incredible day of worship it was… you could truly say we were standing in the presence of our Heavenly Father!

Here are some of the highlights of the installation service for Pastor Paul Purvis.

Mayor Affrontis and his wife, bearing gifts, welcomed Pastor Paul to Temple Terrace.

Pastor Paul’s wife, Kimberly

Dr. Jonny Hunt, mentor to Pastor Paul, brought a powerful message that both inspired and challenged!

 

Glanced across the aisle during the message and saw this….one of the many reasons I love our church. Young and old, from all nationalities coming together to worship.

One of the most tender moments of the morning, in my eyes. During the invitation, Kimberly came to pray and embrace her husband. Can’t wait to get to know this couple and to serve alongside them!

The service ended with a time of prayer for Pastor Paul, Kimberly and their precious family.

If you are ever in need of a place to worship, to feel loved and accepted and to hear the beauty of the message of Jesus, I invite you to join us! I’m confident you won’t leave the same!

I rejoiced with those who said to me,
“Let us go to the house of the LORD.”

Psalm 122:1

I normally sing this song right around December, but for now, it seems quite appropriate for July! With an incredibly busy wedding season and a to do list that is finally shrinking, I’m so thankful that our annual beach vacation has finally arrived. I’ve worked nearly around the clock this week prepping images, placing orders, designing lovely albums and delivering products. One final stop by the post office and it’ll be time to focus on my little brood. One week of uninterrupted family time! The kids and hubby are looking forward to it and to be honest, so am I!

It’s a tremendous honor and blessing to capture precious moments for so many of you and for the next 7 days, I’m ready to make some memories of my own! I will begin answering emails and responding to inquiries when we return. Until then, I’m praying the weather cooperates and that many of our days will be spent relaxing, exploring, laughing and rejoicing in the wonderful family the Lord has given us!