Gratefulness and appreciation for past and future service was expressed to the retiring pastor and his wife, Clyde and Bobbie Hubbard, as well as to the new incoming pastor and his wife, Stan and Judy Erickson.

Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard moved to the Coleman, Texas, church area from Buffalo, New York, in 1996. They first served the Coleman brethren as local elder and deaconess, and then in 2011, they were asked to assume the role of pastor and wife. Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard, though retiring, will continue to live in the area and provide support and service to the new pastor and his wife as well as the congregation.

Stan and Judy Erickson moved into the area in September of this year from Austin, Texas.  They have agreed to take over as the new pastor and wife. Both Mr. and Mrs. Erickson have a long record of faithful service to God’s people.

Mark Welch, the area’s regional director, was able to join the congregation on this special occasion. In his sermon, Mr. Welch encouraged all to continue to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered. After the church service, he led the congregation in welcoming Mr. and Mrs. Erickson and thanking Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard. A special potluck meal and cake was enjoyed by all.

The Coleman congregation of the United Church of God is truly blessed to have such seasoned leadership to counsel and serve its members.