The following announcement is from GCI-USA Regional Pastor Paul David Kurts.
Please join me in congratulating Lead Pastor Franklin K. Howard and his wife Leslie upon Frank’s retirement from 16 years pastoring 24-7 Community Church, GCI’s congregation in Newark, New Jersey. In a beautiful and moving ceremony held recently, Frank passed the baton of leadership to a new pastoral team. Frank and Leslie (pictured below) will continue to be involved in ministry at 24-7, but in different ways. You know the saying, “You can’t keep a good man (or woman) down!”
Frank and Leslie helped start 24-7 Community Church 17 years ago with about 14 people. Not too many folks gave them a fighting chance, but in the years since, the church has grown, engaged their surrounding community, and above all moved forward on their knees in prayer. Through Frank and Leslie’s example and leadership, a culture of empowerment was created at 24-7 whereby all people, young and old, were given opportunity to play an important role in the daily life of the church.
Frank and Leslie, your GCI family thanks you for your many years of tireless, faithful service to our brothers and sisters at 24-7, and to the members of the Newark community beyond. The impact you’ve made can’t be overstated. May God bless you as you enter into this new season of life and ministry.
Well done good and faithful servant!
Thank you Frank and Leslie for your love and service! Blessings to you as you start the next chapter of life!
Congratulations Frank and Leslie. We wish you the best and hope to see Leslie in Kentucky and the C&B Conference.
Curtis and Jannice.
Frank, we know you will enjoy serving in whatever way God leads… Thank you for setting an example for so many and for being the man God raised you to be. Blessings for your retirement and beyond!
Thom & Marlene Friedrich
GCI, Concord, NH
Dear Frank and Leslie,
Your early example in reaching out to a community by living and sharing Jesus’ gospel helped set the pace for forming GCI community churches. 24-7 Community Church is participating with Jesus in serving God’s children in Newark, NJ.
Thank you!
Ken
Yes, enjoy your retirement of continued service to God and all of his children.
Frank and Leslie,
I am so happy for you both. I know that you will continue to serve in the way that God shows you. Congratulations and enjoy what God has in mind for you in the coming years.
Pam Ridgell