Saying Good-Bye to Pastor Jamie Evans
One of the hardest things in life...even among Christians...is saying good-bye to a friend who passes away suddenly. This, unfortunately, is one of those hard times. A dear, personal friend and a long time supporter of Evangel Home, Pastor Jamie Evans, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Fresno, died on Thursday, February 25, 2010. Our staff and I share our love, our prayers, and our tears with his family, friends, and congregation. Adding to our sorrow is realizing that Jamie took his own life. Having fought a long time battle with depression, Jamie finally dealt with his pain in a way only he could understand. For the rest of us, it will forever remain a mystery.
What are we to do? How are we to respond? Where do we turn to process such tragedy and loss? I would like to encourage you to worship the Lord. No matter your feelings, misunderstandings, or grief, take time to worship our Lord.
Yes...feel...search for understanding where you can...and grieve. These are all important steps. But remember to worship, too. Neither you nor I were there as our friend and mentor passed into eternity. The good news is, Christ was there. In Godlike fashion, Christ's generous and gracious love met Jamie in this tragic circumstance. While we feel hopeless, our Lord is still in control. Our faith must rest with Him...even when...especially when...we don't understand and answers evade our every query. Please join me in praying for Jamie's family, friends, and church. If you are grieving with us and need someone to talk with, call us and we will do our best to extend our services to you. If you feel led to make a contribution to support Jamie's family, please make your check payable to First Presbyterian Church of Fresno and designate your gift, "Jamie Evans Family Fund." Here is the church's mailing address: First Presbyterian Church of Fresno 1540 M Street Fresno, CA 93721 Sorrowing together,  Gerre Brenneman Executive Director
PS-I
highly recommend listening to these two services, both from February 28,
2010:
First
Presbyterian Church of Fresno-Leaning on
God and His Word
University
Presbyterian Church of Fresno-Tell That Fox |