Dear OBJ Family,
Last year, Scott wrote in his letter that the "vision of our church is like a postcard capturing the work we hope to see three or four years from now." This vision is consistently prayed over, implemented, and guided by the Holy Spirit here at OBJ, and remains clear.
Our vision is that the authentic faith of the followers of Jesus at OBJC will be so compelling that the people and communities of the Gunnison Valley and beyond experience the transformation that only His gospel can provide.
Many of you have been instrumental in carrying out this vision for decades, and others, like me, have only been here a short time. Whether you are a full-timer here in our beautiful valley or a “some-timer,” thank you for your faithfulness over the past year. Leadership transitions are challenging for any organization, but they can be particularly difficult in a resort community. In Crested Butte, where the transient nature means we often see people come and go, it becomes even more challenging when someone who has pastored, cried, celebrated, and guided us for 13 years departs. During this period, your steadfastness and grace have been truly inspiring.
While farewells are never easy, I am thankful for the smooth transition that highlights the strength and unity of our community. Your unwavering dedication is evident in many ways: from warmly welcoming newcomers to actively participating in both existing and new ministries, we witness God transforming lives. As I look back, I especially want to express my gratitude to the staff. You probably already know this, but the staff here at OBJ is exceptional, and they have shouldered the transition's burden in many unseen ways. When you think of them, thank God for them, write them a note, and offer encouragement. They are a strong and faithful team, and I am blessed to work alongside them.
A particularly joyful highlight has been the significant increase in young adults joining our church. Their energy and fresh perspectives invigorate our worship and outreach, infusing the church with renewed vitality. Together, we have also made great strides toward our Horizon Fund, a vision for future housing that will deepen our impact here.
Looking ahead, I am filled with hope and excitement. Our shared journey continues, rooted in faith and community, as we build upon the strong foundation laid by those who came before us. Let us carry forward this spirit of care, humility, and faith, confident that God is guiding us into His future for our church. Thank you for your trust, prayers, and unwavering dedication. Together, we will continue to be a light in the valley. Or as Paul put it in Ephesians 3:20
Now to him who by the power that is working within us is able to do far beyond all that we ask or think, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
02/ Annual Attendance*
01 / Fiscal Year Giving*
This past winter, the Snow Squad was started up. Their mission is to help anyone in our community that is overly burdened by the yearly snow shoveling our winter brings. Though it was a light snow year, the Snow Squad has been able to connect with and care for those in our valley that are elderly, injured, widowed, or otherwise in need of some snow shoveling assistance. Many of those who have received assistance are not Christians but have experienced the love of Jesus this winter by the many volunteers on the Snow Squad. Each person receiving assistance from the Snow Squad receives help from the same volunteer throughout the winter so that long term relationships can be built and opportunities for gospel conversations can be opened.
In addition to the Snow Squad, this past fall two OBJC members explored the possibility of bringing the love and gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gunnison County Jail and were met with many open doors from the authorities at the jail. Since November, the OBJC jail ministry has been meeting with inmates on a weekly basis. The gospel has been shared and received by inmates and there have been dramatic spiritual transformations, and positive relationships built with the staff at the Gunnison County Jail. Recently, three new members of the ministry team have been added to conduct Bibles studies in Spanish and connect with the women in the jail as well. Praise God for new opportunities to love and serve our community!
