March 2014

Greetings to everyone at Cape Bible Chapel,

The elders are excited to provide an update on the leadership transition that began the first of January. We recognize that this is one of the most significant changes in the life of the Chapel in the last several decades. After Dan proposed the change in his teaching responsibility to allow him to be more involved in peoples’ lives, the elders spent much time in 2013 in prayer, discussion, and planning before undertaking this major change.

From a human perspective, the change challenged our thinking.  But as we have already seen in the first two months of 2014, it is not about us but about Him who has infinite power and wisdom. While it is early in the transition, we are blessed to be experiencing the truth described in Ephesians 3:20-21:

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think,

according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and

            in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

Now to review some of the details of the transition … As you are likely aware, Dan Greene has transitioned to Lead Pastor, and after about 35 years of weekly Bible exposition, he passed the primary teaching baton to James Green (no relationship other than brothers in Christ).  James’ role has changed from Associate Pastor to Teaching Pastor. This has been a somewhat intimidating change for all of us because of Dan’s giftedness and tenure.

Dan continues to cast vision and is settling into his new responsibilities: 1) expanded leadership of the staff, 2) hands on leadership in the area of mentoring/discipleship, 3) lead shepherding pastor, 4) lead counseling pastor, 5) co-coordinator of Small Groups with Cliff Ford, 6) increased responsibility in oversight of Chapel Ministries, and 7) teaching in the worship services on a limited basis.

While James remains intimately involved in ministry oversight, shepherding, and counseling, his day to day leadership in these areas has been passed to Dan.  The teaching responsibility is now James’ primary focus.  We trust that you have been challenged and blessed, as we have, by his current sermon series, “Galatians … Understanding Grace.”

The elders ask that you regularly pray for the Chapel leadership and particularly for Dan and James as they continue to grow in their gifts and skills needed for their new roles.  We look forward to how God will continue to work in and through the Chapel body in the coming months, years, and generations as we seek to glorify Him.

Serving & worshipping Him with you,

Elders of Cape Bible Chapel