A primary GCI goal is to multiply young pastoral leaders. An important tool toward that end in the US is GCI’s Pastoral Internship Program. One of our interns, Carrie Smith, recently completed her internship under the direction of her mentors Mark and Anne Stapleton, who pastor Cornerstone Community Church, the GCI congregation in the San Diego, California area.
GCI president Joseph Tkach recently visited the congregation, now meeting in a new location in Lemon Grove, California, to participate in Carrie’s ordination as an elder. Other participants in the ordination included District Pastor Glen Weber and Pastor Mark Stapleton (see picture below). Carrie is moving to Pikeville, Kentucky where she will be part of that congregation’s pastoral team.
Here are other pictures from this special service, which included presentations from Dr. Tkach and his wife Tammy, Carrie’s ordination and a baptism.
I remember praying over Mark and Ann Stapleton at one one of our early Youth Camp Directors Meetings in Elk Park, CO, around 2004. I thanked them and God for their dedication and youth in following the Holy Spirit’s lead. Little did I know their continuing to grow and become leaders and mentors for one of our own daughters years later.
To God be the glory. Pastor Tom and Pam
We rejoice! Great job Carrie! Congratulations also to the Stapletons for being such great mentors. Hallelujah.