Stepping down
On August 1st, 2009, I resigned as Executive Director. I will continue through August 31st, training the new Executive Director, Adam Borries.
Why?! Isn’t this rather sudden?
I decided to resign in mid-May, but the factors motivating the change started last fall. In October, I came to the conclusion that it was healthier and more Biblically sound to disciple teens in a church body, instead of a non-profit organization. I planned to discontinue our youth group and instead support local youth groups by doing youth conferences and magazines.
However, as I began to develop a clearer vision of what I wanted to do, I realized that in the long term it wouldn’t be compatible with Teens For Christ NW. TFC has an broad doctrinal statement and a Board of Directors with a variety of theological viewpoints. In contrast, my vision was very theologically specific. While it’s possible to launch a ministry with a different doctrinal statement and philosophy of ministry under TFC’s banner, it’s wiser and safer to launch it independently.
So… what’s next for TFC?
Thankfully, we’ve got this awesome guy ready to take over. Two years ago I asked Adam Borries to direct our Bible Quizzing program. He’s done very well with it and is still passionate about promoting & growing it. He is also an alumni of the youth group and is passionate about reviving it and training new student leaders.
One big challenge for Adam will be balancing his ambitions for TFC with the priorities and needs of his new marriage. Please ask God to give him wisdom and self-control in this.
What’s next for you?
I am on the leadership team of a new downtown church-plant, Grace Church Bellingham and am super-excited to lead & shepherd in a church. I’m also continuing to develop a magazine and Christ-glorifying fiction.
Won’t you miss us?
Yes. Most emphatically, definitely, yes. You have been a huge part of my life for four years. You’ve been extremely gracious, even when I was angry, proud or frustrating. I know I’ll miss you, but if God doesn’t allow us to keep in touch, we’ll catch up with each other when the Son rises on a new Day.
– your brother, Peter Rust
Executive Director, Teens For Christ
Sept. 2005 – Aug. 2009
For more details, read the longer version: http://www.tfcnw.org/youth-group/PetersGoodbyeLetter.pdf
