Popular pastor Mark Brown leaves Ballymena Baptist Church, after spending six years there.
The 35-year-old Antrim native has ‘loved’ having the opportunity to pastor, lead and shape the church in his role as assistant pastor. He has also relished the task of investing in people, stretching people, pointing people to Jesus, and working with amazing, gifted and committed people.
Mark added: “I have especially loved sharing life with the church. Sharing life meant I got to walk with people through their highs and lows (and everything in-between). For me it was a great honour and privilege to have this opportunity and build into so many lives.”
Looking back of some of the most memorable aspects of his time in Ballymena, Mark added: “One stand out highlight has been the growth of the youth within the church; especially the creativity of the youth services. It was amazing to see and hear young people from different denominations and walks of life uniting together, worshipping and experiencing God!”
“I have also loved working with some exceptionally gifted and passionate youth leaders and interns. For me, it is always a highlight to watch gifts being fanned into flames.
Another has been the opportunity to gain such a wide and varied experience of ministry during my six years”, he remarked.
Although Mark came to the church as a stranger, six years later he and they part as great friends.
As Pastor Mark Brown leaves Ballymena Baptist he is keen to thank everyone at the church for their love and support.
He smiles: “I have truly loved my time at Ballymena Baptist. I have many fond memories and that is what makes leaving so difficult. I leave feeling an overwhelming sense of warmth and love from the church! I will never forget the kindness that has been shown to my family and me. You embraced and accepted us as your own.
Thank you for your love and hospitality. Thank you for opening up your homes and your lives to us. I am so thankful for all those who have spoken into my life, prayed, encouraged and blessed me in so many ways. Thank you church and office bearers for the opportunity. It has been my honour and privilege to serve alongside you as a pastor. As I said in my last sermon: “Success stories are only success stories if God is at the centre. Blessings only come when the story is less about you and all about God”. Goodbye church, I love you.”
As Pastor Mark Brown leaves Ballymena Baptist and considers his future, he states: “At present I don’t have plans, but I do believe God has closed one chapter and will open a new chapter. Like the people in Joshua 3, I believe God is calling me to step out in faith, put my foot in the water and look to Him to do amazing things! Some have said what I’m doing is brave, others think I’m crazy…I’m just trying to be obedient to God’s promptings. I will to take some time to pray, seek God, and explore opportunities.”
You can find out more about Ballymena Baptist Church on to their website.
