One of the greatest gifts a church can give its pastor is the opportunity for a sabbatical. It is a season set aside for rest, renewal, learning, and spiritual growth so that a pastor can return refreshed for the years of ministry ahead. I am deeply grateful to Ardmore Baptist Church for making this possible, and I am equally grateful for the wonderful person who will help shepherd our congregation during my absence.
Beginning Monday, September 14, the Rev. Dr. David Hull will serve as our Sabbatical Pastor, with his final Sunday among us being November 22. My last Sunday before the sabbatical will be September 13, and I look forward to returning to worship with you on November 29.
Many of you already know David, but if not, I cannot think of a better person to walk alongside our church during these weeks. David has spent more than four decades serving Christ and the church as a faithful pastor, teacher, and denominational leader. He has led congregations ranging from rural churches to large downtown churches, served as a consultant with the Center for Healthy Churches, taught at McAfee School of Theology, and most recently served as Moderator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Through every season of ministry, he has earned a reputation for thoughtful preaching, wise leadership, and a gracious pastoral spirit. Even more importantly, David is a kind and deeply faithful follower of Jesus. He and his wife, Jane, now call Winston-Salem home, and I know you will quickly discover the warmth, wisdom, and genuine love they bring wherever they serve.
I hope you will welcome David just as you welcomed me seven years ago—with open hearts, attentive ears, and generous encouragement. Pray for him as he prepares to preach, teach, visit, and care for our church family. Pray also for Jane as she shares him with us during these weeks.
As I prepare for my own journey of renewal, it brings me tremendous peace knowing that Ardmore Baptist Church will be in such capable and caring hands. I am excited for what God has in store—not only for me during the sabbatical, but also for all of us as a congregation. I cannot wait to hear the stories of how God has been at work when we gather again on November 29.
I am still around for a few more weeks, but I wanted you all to begin to pray for David now as we look forward to welcoming him to Ardmore Baptist Church.
Grace and peace,
Rev. Dr. Tyler Tankersley
