Friday 5: I'm Better Because of...

5 people at NMC that make me look good on a daily basis:

1. Janelle Prenkert - I often want to say, "We are the Senior High Pastors at NMC" in reference to Janelle and I. Through the years, she has been the co-leader on missions trips, my administrative assistant, the youth pastor to the gals, and all around queen of the ministry. When Dave Engbrecht sat me down in 1999 and talked to me about coming on full time, he wanted to make sure my intentions were to marry Janelle. He wasn't that interested in getting just me, the package deal was a lot sweeter. I wholeheartedly agree.
   
   
2. Kristy Mikel - Kristy is our main administrative assistant in Student Ministries. I can't tell you how many things Kristy has served as the hands and feet in accomplishing our mission. Mailings, brochures, slides, notes, decoration, announcements, creative elements... they all run through her at some point. Kristy is a former student, a some-day overseas world-changer, and for now a key part of our team.
   
   
3. Cindi Lantz - Cindi serves as a our Small Group Leader Coordinator. Our Small Groups are, by far, the healthiest weekly program we have running right now. Cindi is a major reason why. She leads, trains, and cares for our Senior High Small Group Leaders in a relational manner that is contagious and effective. Her efforts and gifts allow me to be freed up in so many ways it's ridiculous.
   
   
   
4. Jason Thompson - Middle School Pastor currently focused on our Preteen program, Jason is yin to my yang. We've served together at NMC for 8 years now (I think he's been here that long). He's an awesome strategic mind that thinks through details and ditches that I desperately need. He can find something that's not working, and figure out how to fix it. Most importantly, he's been a great friend in all of this. I love knowing that my office is next door to his. (not Jason's actual hair in photo)
   
   
   
5. Chris Lehane - Our Junior High Pastor is the "new kid on the block." But I'd say 3 years is enough for him to call this home. Chris is leading our Senior High PhillyGO trip this Summer. Chris has taken the full reigns of our Junior High Program. I have little need to micromanage Chris because of his vision and leadership. Chris is a relational animal and musical whiz on top of it all.

I love being a part of a team. The cool part about this post is that I have to give you 5 more people next week in order to be fair and mention all who are so key!