South London church inducts new pastor
When our previous pastor, Geoff Coyne, indicated a year ago that he was taking up a full-time chaplaincy at the Royal Hospital, Wandsworth, our church began to search for a new pastor.
We prayed and began to enquire. A few things hindered our progress, yet God worked all to bring us to the fair spring afternoon when friends and church members would witness the induction of Dave Kelland to full-time pastoral ministry at Putney Evangelical Church.
Dave first visited the church in October 2006, having come across from South Africa for an interview with the FIEC pastors’ association.
It became clear that working together could be of mutual benefit – the Putney church needed interim oversight while looking for a full-time elder, and Dave needed a job. So, on this provisional basis, he was invited to work at Putney. In the event, the church called him as pastor.
Geoff Coyne led the induction service. Dave was questioned about his commitment to the Word of God, allegiance to the 1689 Baptist Confession and commitment to care for the church. The church was exhorted by moderator Colin Jones to pray for, encourage and submit to her new pastor.
Greg Prior, a local vicar who had known Dave at college in South Africa, preached from Acts 2:42ff on the five marks of a healthy church – learning, loving, worshipping, praying and witnessing. His word was challenging, setting the tone for the ongoing life of the church.
Following the service, friends remained behind for a buffet tea. We give thanks to God for his goodness and look forward to seeing what he will do among us for his glory.
