Dear Next Generation Churches,

As you are well aware, our association has been on a journey over the last two to three years. During these years, we have sought God's wisdom regarding the direction of Next Generation Churches. Throughout our long and storied history, there have been numerous changes that have been reflective of both the needs of our congregations and our desire to remain focused on our mission. The past few years have been no exception. During this transitional time, we have rewritten our Constitution and By-laws, reshaped the role of the board, and begun envisioning for the future. The primary question that has driven this envisioning is "Why Next Generation Churches?" In this current era, denominational loyalty is faltering, churches are plateaued or in decline, and pastors are isolated and alone like never before. As we have prayed, researched, and strategized over these past few years, the board has recognized the difficulties before us. But we are fully convinced that our association is uniquely equipped to encourage, resource, and empower our pastors and churches to fulfill their purpose in their unique communities.

Our Values, Mission, and Vision are reflective of our desire to serve our pastors and churches in a way that furthers Christ's Kingdom.

Our Values

Healthy Churches

Relationally and Strategically Connected Churches

Strategic, Cooperative Church-Planting

Effective Leadership Development

 Our Mission

To empower churches and their leaders to discover and achieve their God-given mission.

 Our Vision

A network of missional churches transforming lives with the grace and truth of Jesus.

During this time of transition, we have been especially blessed by the leadership of Dr. Brad Franklin. His loyalty and passion for Next Gen have set the stage for the renewal that we are currently experiencing. From the beginning, Brad's role was to guide us through this transition, safeguard our values, and lead the strategy for what is to come. As a board, words could not express our gratitude for his selfless and sacrificial leadership.  But the time for transition has ended.

In August of this year, Brad notified us of his intention to leave his role as transitional director of Next Gen by the end of October (see Brad's letter below). Immediately we began the process of praying about who God would have lead us to fulfill our Values, Mission, and Vision.  We believe that God has clearly answered our prayers in the selection of Dr. David Whitaker, Lead Pastor of Morgan Hill Bible Church, as our new Executive Director. During the process of selecting Dave, we made a strategic decision that we want to share with you. We have decided that the best model for our association is to have a full-time pastor as our Executive Director. Here is why:

• We believe that a full-time pastor is uniquely situated to have both credibility and influence among the pastors of our association.
•  We believe that the era of the "one-man show" is no longer the best stewardship of our resources or the healthiest approach to ministry.
•  We believe that the decentralization of Next Gen and a focus on grass roots leadership is the direction that our association should pursue.

So it is with great support and anticipation that we announce Dr. David Whitaker as the new Executive Director of Next Generation Churches. Please join us in prayerfully supporting and encouraging him in this new role. As always, if you have additional questions or concerns please feel free to contact any of us.

Sincerely,

The Board of Next Generation Churches

Scott Simmerok - scott@churchonthehill.com

Joshua Wroten - josh@msconline.org

Gary Rounsavall - gary@solanovalley.org

Ray Spann - nnaps@mac.com

Andy Flowers - pastorandy@calvarywoodland.org

Fred Hennes - fred@gatewaybible.org