Some of your nominations...

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Ann is nominating Pastor Brian from New Life of Morton and says… Brian and wife Jess have advanced our church culture in hospitality and recognizing the significance of EACH person who comes through our doors.

 

Susan is nominating Pastor Don from Brimfield Evangelical Free Church of Brimfield and says… Our Pastor has been with us for numerous years and those years have helped us both grow in wisdom and knowledge of the Lord. He and his wife serve the flock and we indeed are blessed to be called the family of God. We appreciate them both in so many ways! He preaches directly from the word of God each and every Sunday!

 

Messiah is nominating Pastor Arun from Grace Methodist Church of Decatur and says… Pastor Arun is a good shepherd and biblical teacher.

 

Christi is nominating Pastor Vern from First Baptist of Pekin and says… Pastor Vern is so passionate about sharing Jesus with our community and challenging us to do the same!

 

Mallory is nominating Pastor Shadrach from North Parkway of Pekin and says… He is always pouring himself into the kids

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Amy is nominating Pastor Zach from Grace Presbyterian Church and says... has been such a blessing to our congregation. He speaks the word in truth and love. He has a lovely wife and 3 sweet kids who would love to go on this trip with him.

 

Laura is nominating Pastor Travis from Village Bible Church of Greenwood, Indiana and says… Travis does a great job preaching God's word to our church. He shepherds God's people in a real, loving, and biblical way. He leads his family and our church well and is truly a blessing!

 

Josh is nominating Pastor Jon from Northwoods Community Church of Peoria and says… Pastor Jon brings timely convicting messages with such gentleness and love. His example of following Christ motivates me to deepen my own commitment!

 

Clyve is nominating Pastor Chuck from Trinity Lutheran Church of Bloomington and says… He cares about everyone and shows it. He has inspiring sermons, he is willing to listen to members in Bible Class and adjust to meet a concern ,

 

Dennis is nominating Pastor Frank from Roanoke Apostolic Christian Church of Roanoke and says… Frank is a peacemaker, who is continually helping, counseling & visiting - exhibiting Christ like love

 

Karon is nominating Pastor Mike from Song & Sword Church of Bloomington and says… He is a great all around pastor.  He does daily devotional videos   daily.  We are doing  a  6 week  Bible study during week nights. He is very approachable, active in our community along with outreaches to other communities .  He also is involved in missionary work.  Always on the go, putting his self first.

 

Mark is nominating Pastor Zach from Grace Presbyterian Church of Peoria and says… Pastor Zach humbly teaches the Word of God to encourage the saints. He shares his gifts and his failures. And most, he is dependent upon the LORD God.

 

Jeremy is nominating Pastor Jason from Crossroads Global Methodist of Washington and says… Selfless and godly leadership is allowing our church to thrive! Thankful for all he does!

 

Trina is nominating Pastor Chad from Pekin Bible Church of Pekin and says… He's a self-effacing man of God who promotes the Word, and only the Word!  He and his wife have never been to the Ark Encounter and I believe he deserves a break!

 

Megan is nominating Pastor Shane from Pekin City Church of Pekin and says… He has been a saving grace for so many people and just continues to guide our church to bring the love of Jesus to everyone we can!

 

Melody is nominating Pastor Jon from Northwoods Community Church of Peoria and says… Pastor Jon preaches from the Word of God And has a heart bringing people to Christ.

 

Larry is nominating Pastor Vernon from First Baptist Church of Pekin and says… Since Pastor Vern has arrived at FBC, he has not only set up community outreach events, but he has also participated in them.  He is true to the Word of God in all his sermons and is well-prepared.  On Sunday mornings he tries to greet and talk to as many people as he can.  He is well-respected in the community as well as FBC.

 

Katharine is nominating Pastor Samuel from Argyle Bible Church of Colchester and says… Pastor Sam feeds his flock exceedingly well with the spiritual truth, albeit words and wisdom, of the Bible.  He provides strong leadership to our church and community that resonates across all age groups. He is a highly respected scholar and champion with regard to teaching the Gospel and bringing the light and life of Jesus into many lives, and continuing to add clarity about the meanings to be richly mined from each book of the Bible and the interconnections between chapters. It is amazing how he can provide in-depth illumination about sections of the Bible for a session and then recognize sometimes that he only covered three verses, but in so doing revealed the history and nuances of a previous era and culture that would have been otherwise missed. He relates well to everyone, and we are very blessed to have him as our spiritual leader and friend.

 

Bettylou is nominating Pastor Brian from Lord of Glory Lutheran Church of Grayslake and says… Pastor Brian is the best!  He sets the example of how we are to be as Christians, but admits that he is not perfect.  He preaches the Word and answers our questions thoughtfully.

 

Melody is nominating Pastor Jonathan from Cornerstone Baptist Church of Groveland and says… This man know how to preach!  Keeps everyone listening.  He also listens to individuals when they need to talk.  He puts his heart and soul into the church

 

William is nominating Pastor Nathan from Gethsemane Church of Pekin and says… A wonder pastor that loves his congregation and preaches the word of God

 

Marie is nominating Pastor Mike from Song Sword of Bloomington and says… This Pastor Appreciation Month, we honor and celebrate Pastor Mike — a true shepherd who leads not just with words, but with unwavering example. Your steady presence, heartfelt support, and deep commitment to serving others inspire us all. Whether through your teaching, your listening ear, or your quiet acts of kindness, you reflect the heart of Christ in everything you do. Thank you, Pastor Mike, for walking beside us, encouraging us, and reminding us daily what it means to live a life of faith. We are truly blessed to have you as our pastor.

 

Pat is nominating Pastor Jonathan from Cornerstone Baptist of Groveland and says… He is a faithful, loyal and amazing teacher/pastor.  We are so blessed to have him.

 

Denise is nominating Pastor Jason from Open Bible Church of Hopedale and says… Pastor Jason is an absolutely wonderful pastor.  He is a true shepherd and a true servant.  I am so thankful that he was the pastor when my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and when she passed.  He led my dad to the Lord at the age of 72 and was there with us when Dad went home to be with the Lord.

 

R is nominating Pastor Ritch from Bethany of Edwards and says… He is such a humble servant of God! He preaches truth and I am so thankful he allows God to use him to lead a flock here in Peoria, IL!

 

Chris is nominating Pastor Matt from Evangelical Free of Canton and says… Matt is so worthy of being appreciated for his constant leadership and example to our church.  Moreover, he is a man who preaches God's word and does not turn away from it.  This would be an opportunity for he and his wife (and possibly 3 children) to get away and enjoy some family time.

 

Marsha is nominating Pastor Tim from Pattonsburg Christian Church of Pattonsburg and says… Tim had to retire from his preaching at our little country church in Pattonsburg this past December 2024.  The commute from Urbana became too much as the years went on.  I miss him so much as Tim always delivered a meaningful message trying to grow our congregation in our Christian walk.  I so miss his wife, Nancy, who played the piano so beautifully for us to sing those wonderful hymns that I grew up with.  It was a wonderful combination … Tim singing along with Nancy playing the piano.

Cathy is nominating Pastor Joel from first Assembly Bloomington Normal of Normal and says… sad for us good for him he is moving into an Assembly leadership position. He is so loved and respected. An outstanding leader, humble, visionary, ever thankful.

 

Lisa is nominating Pastor John from Good Shepherd Baptist Church of Manito and says… He is retiring and he has been a great pastor of our little country church

 

Janet is nominating Pastor Chad from Pekin Bible Church of Pekin and says… Pastor Chad preaches his sermons consistently from the Bible in such a manner that every sits up and takes notice as well as notes. The church is moving forward in their Christian education and desire to be mor like Christ. He is also an excellent Biblical counselor, marriage counselor, bringing others to Christ. He is always giving of his time.

 

Blanche is nominating Pastor Jonathan from Cornerstone Baptist of Groveland and says… He always preaches and teaches directly from God’s word

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Matt is nominating Pastor Craig from Northwoods Community Church of Peoria and says… Pastor Craig is over Adult Ministries and Missions. He has guided so many into Missions.  He visited a lot of the Countries we partner with.  His gentle and sincere traits,  make him a BIG asset to Northwoods, but especially to the Kingdom!

 

Rachel is nominating Pastor Zach from Grace Presbyterian Church of Peoria and says… Pastor Zach and his wife and children are fairly new to this church, he has worked diligently for this church family. He loves the Lord and His Word. What a wonderful, joyful change I have witnessed this church ! We are blessed truly. I think all pastors deserve this special treat.

 

Dan is nominating Pastor Bob from LaPrairie UPC of Sparland and says… Rev Bob has only been at our church for a short time, but has brought energy and compassion to our congregation. He is very involved in the life our our church and delivers very inspiring, heartfelt sermons.

 

Thomas is nominating Pastor Walt from New Hope Fellowship Church of Farmington and says… Walt & his wife Billie are retired ministers that step up to assist in any way they can at New Hope Fellowship. They spend hours each week in prayer.

 

Larry is nominating Pastor Chip from Redeemer Lutheran Church of Peoria and says… A caring and compassionate shepherd

 

Jeannie is nominating Pastor Greg from Grace Presbyterian of Peoria and says… Pastor Greg is interested, caring, approachable, encouraging, supportive and dedicated to The Lord!

 

Jennifer is nominating Pastor Tim from Livingston County Assembly of God of Pontiac and says… He has stepped up and step in as out interim pastor while we are going through this transition of pastoral search.

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Phil is nominating Pastor Bryan from Northfield Christian Fellowship of Tremont and says… The blessing he is on the youth at NCF

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Theresa is nominating Pastor Randy from Grace Baptist Church of Pekin and says… As the pastor's wife in a small church, I see the unending time and effort Randy puts into discipling our people,  and reaching the lost.  He has loved the people of Grace deeply for 40 years!

 

Melody is nominating Pastor Jonathan from Cornerstone Baptist Church of Groveland and says… Jonathan is a wonderful pastor and father.  His sermons are for everyone to understand .  He lives his congregation.

 

Shari is nominating Pastor Brian from New Life Church of Morton and says… Brian is so good about sharing the Bible in scripture with us. He has a team he works with that helps him to be accountable. He is very passionate and serving our church and community.

 

Heather is nominating Pastor Angela from Oasis Church of Morton and says… Angela has changed the direction of my life by the way she has loved me and poured into me spiritually as if I am her own child. She exhibits God's love in one of the most beautiful and tangible ways I have ever seen and has helped heal my heart to see and understand how truly good and loving God is.

 

Sue is nominating Pastor Tim from Summit Point of East Peoria and says… He is an amazing pastor. Loves the Lord and truly cares about the people.

 

Ann is nominating Pastor Brian from New Life of Morton and says… Brian and wife Jess have advanced our church culture in hospitality and recognizing the significance of EACH person who comes through our doors.

 

Leah is nominating Pastor Ted from Morton Apostolic Christian Church of Morton and says… He Goes Beyond His Duties As An Elder!!!!! He’s Soo Nice 👍, Sweet, Loving 🥰, Wonderful And Amazing 🤩!!!! He’s The Only One The Only One That Inspired/Encouraged Me To Be Content Being Single/Feel Better About Myself!!!! 😀😃😄😁❤️💗

 

Tanya is nominating Pastor Jon from Northwoods of Peoria and says… Jon always preaches from the Word unapologetically.   He speaks in truth with boldness but also in love. I am blessed by the way he leads and guides me in my walk with the Lord.

 

Messiah is nominating Pastor Arun from Grace Methodist Church of Decatur and says… Pastor Arun is a good shepherd and biblical teacher.

 

Theresa is nominating Pastor Joel from First Assembly of God of Normal and says… I'm nominating Joel because he is devout man and follower of Jesus. He brings Jesus to everyone he meets. He cares about everyone he meets. He has touched many lives by him being relatable and accountable. He will be the first one to admit he isn't perfect so that makes him relatable. He has a deep understanding of the Bible and tries to convey that in every message he delivers.

 

JoEllen is nominating Pastor Ritch from Bethany Baptist of Edwards and says… Preaches the word. Involved in the life of his church. Has helped us through many hard times.

 

Stacy is nominating Pastor John from Heartland Church of Normal and says… Pastor John is the real deal. He admonishes us with God's word and often shares funny anecdotes about himself. We appreciate his authenticity and the love he shares with his Heartland family!

 

Bonnie is nominating Pastor Don from Northfield Christian Fellowship of Tremont and says… He listened to my whole ugly story and didn't judge me. He treated me with kindness and invited me to join a small group at church, which led me to become a member of the church and into a closer relationship with Jesus.

 

Stefan is nominating Pastor Jordan from Covenant Community Church of Chillicothe and says… His greatest desire is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all who will hear, and to love and shepherd His people.

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Marcy is nominating Pastor Dan from Crosspoint of East Peoria and says… He is willing to preach on some difficult topics that help us to grow in our faith

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Stephen is nominating Pastor Jayson from Calvary Baptist Church of Kewanee and says… Pastor Jayson was saved through a bus ministry as a child and has a passion for bus ministry in our community. There are many children who get picked up by the bus twice every Sunday (morning and night for King’s Kids). He is faithful to the Word and to the children in our community who may not otherwise be able to attend and hear the Gospel. We are very thankful for him and his family.

 

Jane is nominating Pastor Brenden from Zion Baptist of Pekin of Pekin and says… Pastor Brenden is a dedicated pastor to our little church. He is able to juggle a family of three kids and one baby on the way,a full time job, and still be a great leader for our church. He happily leads the flock in what God has in store for the  for us as a congregation that has many needs. He blesses my heart every time I see him working for the purpose God gave him.

 

Rachelle is nominating Pastor Joel from First Assembly of God of Normal and says… He is the best pastor has grace compassion n wonderful sermons and was just nominated to take over the entire state of illiterate, I'm grieving bit they couldn't of picked a better man of God

 

Bev is nominating Pastor Brian from New Life Church of Morton and says… Pastor Brian lives a life that pursues and proclaims the gospel!

 

Carla is nominating Pastor Leroy from Word of Faith Christian Center of Peoria and says… For his total

selflessness.

 

Betty is nominating Pastor Ritch from Bethany of Peoria and says… He just a very caring, Godly leader of this church! We started attending the outdoor services during covid and the love here just pulled us in!

 

Roger is nominating Pastor Jim from God and Country Church of Pekin and says… Boldly still preaching a uncompromising Gospel at 80 years of age, while wearing a life vest due his heart only operating at 15% output. He and his are raising his 12 year old Grandson. Pastor Dawson teaches concealed carry classes during the week so he doesn't need a salary from the church.

 

Matt is nominating Pastor Dan from CrossPoint Church of East Peoria and says… Dan is pastor/shepherd that cares deeply for the flock God has entrusted to his care.

 

Karen is nominating Pastor Brian from Elevate of Morton and says… About 6 years ago, we bounced churches until we walked into Elevate!! From that moment on, we found our home church. Paster Brian preaches as if he is talking to each one of us and my family and I gave our lives to God. We have been baptized and he is always around to talk or just pray with me if I need it. He has a wonderful family with Paster Danielle who is just as amazing! And they just had their 6th child. I just have so much good things to say about him and our church. I went from knowing nothing to changing my life and lives of people who are close to me. He makes me want to learn more about our Father.  And I’m in my late 50s. And I’m excited about it. And I credit Paster Brian and Paster Danielle that saved me from certain hell, to a Christian who spreads the word to anyone who will listen! I appreciate, love, and respect Paster Brian and deserves to win.

 

ZuZu is nominating Pastor Kurt from Faith Evangelical Free Church of Metamora and says… He’s my dad and every Sunday he leads high school Sunday school, leads worship, and does a sermon while also being a part time history and geography teacher. He’s always there when anyone needs him.

 

Connie is nominating Pastor Vernon from First Baptist Church of Pekin and says… He has a true shepherd’s heart and makes time for all who need him. He is also a great boss to work for!

 

Celia is nominating Pastor Harvey from Apostolic Christian Church of Gridley and says… Harvey is an amazing servant of God pointing all to Jesus

 

Dennis is nominating Pastor David from First Baptist of Creve Coeur and says… His teaching during Sunday school and Bible study is what drew my wife and i into the church.Been there ever since.

 

Tina is nominating Pastor Nate from Valley Chapel Independent Bible Church of Green Valley and says… Pastor Nate has faithfully served the Lord and our congregation for the past 19 years. He preaches from the Bible exegetically, not shying away from tough topics - being wise as he does so. Our church couldn't pay him a full salary when he came, so he did substitute teaching to bring in his needed balance. By teaching at the public school, he made himself a familiar and friendly face to the children in our area. He has wisely led us in our Christian walks in sermons, in men's Bible study, in VBS and in leading our Wednesday night children's program. He and his wife love to build sets for VBS and A Night in Bethlehem with the congregation. Our friendship throughout the years brought marriage of one of his daughters into the congregation (my son specifically!). I am blessed to have Pastor Nate as our pastor and to have his family minister alongside us in precious Christian fellowship and friendship.

 

Ginny is nominating Pastor Lyall from Bethany Baptist of Edwards and says… Pastor Lyall is the epitome of what it means to be a servant of the Lord. He tirelessly works to make everything run like clockwork at Bethany. He provides delicious meals for many of the activities at church and puts together informative programs and trip opportunities for the senior saints. It would be difficult to list all that Pastor Sutton does to make Bethany the welcoming church it is known for, but he certainly deserves to be recognized as the willing servant he is to the Lord.

 

George is nominating Pastor Daniel from Prairie Bible Church of Delavan and says… Recognition is nice as he’s as deserving as a pastor can be.

 

Troy is nominating Pastor Shawn from Vale Church of Bloomington and says… This Pastor puts the Lord's Word out so well. He tells it like it is, and it's always like he's speaking directly to you. He is my favorite Pastor if feel like God led my family to Vale to hear him. I look forward to Sundays!!!

 

Mary is nominating Pastor Gary from Christian Union of Metamora and says… Serves our church family and our community with such Christ like devotion

 

Keith is nominating Pastor Tom from Liberty Bible of Eureka and says… He’s the best

 

Pat is nominating Pastor Zach from Grace Presbyterian of Peoria and says… Pastor Zach is loving and caring and dedicated to discipling us to win souls to Christ. His sermons are organized, yet easy to understand, convicting and challenging, inspiring us to grow in Christ.

 

Mallory is nominating Pastor Patrick from North Parkway of Pekin and says… Patrick has worked as a high level volunteer for a long time and keeps a positive attitude. He loves to serve and loves Jesus.

 

Mallory is nominating Pastor Shadrach from North Parkway of Pekin and says… He is always pouring himself into the kids

 

Kent is nominating Pastor Dave from Crosspoint Community Church of Eureka and says… Dave is a humble pastor who cares deeply for the people at Crosspoint and desires for them to know Jesus in a deep personal relationship.

 

Marla is nominating Pastor Tom from Centennial Christian Church of Bloomington and says… Tom is a God fearing man who preaches we are all one in Christ. He cares for all people.

 

Bobbie is nominating Pastor Shane from City Church of Pekin and says… Pastor Shane is deserving of this gift for many reasons that I would be unable to list. His love for God, our church and its members exceeds many others. On top of his full time job, Pastor Shane preaches 2 services each Sunday in a way that everyone can relate to and understand. He leads by example and is personable with each person who walks through our church doors and cares for others deeply. You can often find Pastor Shane serving others outside of church as well, from helping to run concession stands at the local football games, providing food and showers to the less fortunate or joining in community events such as Candy in the City. He is the husband to his wife Amy and a father to 5 boys. Thank you Pastor Shane for all you do!

 

Rita is nominating Pastor Tim from Summit Point Church of East Peoria and says… My pastor is a wonderful, Bible teacher, who is very humble yet knowledgeable and caring. I have learned so much from him and he is a strong Bible believing Christian.

 

Jerry & Peg are nominating Pastor Bryan from Northfield Christian Fellowship of Tremont and say… Bryan is our Youth Pastor and Leader of The Cabin where teens from many towns come every  Saturday night for fellowship and hear The Word

 

Carol is nominating Pastor Roger from Living Hope Community Church of Hopedale and says… Roger is battling Parkinson's and has set his retirement for August of 2026, if he is able to keep up with everything until that time. Meanwhile, he continues to "pastor" our church as if he is still as healthy as he was prior to this diagnosis. He is a loving, wonderful leader, always ready to teach, preach and pray for us. I don't even like to think about him leaving us, but I know he is doing all that he can, loving us and being there for us as long as this cruel disease lets him. We love him and want what's best for him.

 

Amy is nominating Pastor Zach from Grace Presbyterian of Peoria and says… Pastor Zach has been such a blessing to our congregation. He speaks the word in truth and love. He has a lovely wife and 3 sweet kids who would love to go on this trip with him.

 

Peggy is nominating Pastor Jeff from Godspeed Community Church of Bloomington and says… Jeff is a man after God's own heart.  As he leads Godspeed, he seeks to teach only what God is wanting him to teach, and prays to lead the church to follow the Bible and verify prayer with the Bible.  One of my favorite times in Sunday worship directly after the teaching when he will turn to the audience, and say "So what do you think?"  Then, we will spend time discussing the teaching and the scriptures.  Personally, I pray we never lose the discussion time.

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Lorene is nominating Pastor Ritch from Bethany Baptist Church of Edwards and says… He has a big heart and sound biblical teaching that reveals the Gospel in every sermon

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Sharon is nominating Pastor Cliff from Oak Grove Bible Church of East Peoria and says… My pastor and his wife are amazing! They are family. They are encouragers. They are edifying. They are steady. They are faithful. They are shepherds of the flock.

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Julie is nominating Pastor Sean from First United Methodist Church of Pekin and says… Pastor Sean came to our church from the Alabama conference just over a year ago.  What a blessing he is to all of us!  He's a great teacher of the word & an amazing speaker.  We appreciate him very much!

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Linda is nominating Pastor Rick from First Norwood Mennonite church of Peoria and says… Rick always tries to be available to everyone that a need

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Clelia is nominating Pastor Doug from Evangel Community Church of Edwards and says… I've moved many times and been an active member of a single church in each area. I appreciate all of them. But when I cinsider Pastir Doug, and pray for him, I am so filled with gratitude tgat my eyes well with tears.  He not only Preaches and Teaches Gods word with accuracy, true conviction, abd sincere humility; He is a true living example in decipling each of us.  He has nade time for us (myself and my 4 children) to cousel, comfort, and serve us when we needed it and at times when we didn't even know we needed it.  And his entire family have welcomed us as part of there own family.  And their sincerity and love are contageous and inspiring.  If you share this please don't share his name. But if share my experience might inspire others you may share that.

 

Blake is nominating Pastor Tracey from The Encounter of East Peoria and says… Because he's veen a true example of faith and integrity to our community.  He invested in me when he didn't have to. He lived out the gospel to me

 

Lydia is nominating Pastor Ron from Christian Life Church of Creve Coeur and says… Pastor Ron is a good pastor, a great grandfather, and he helps me all the time.

 

Nick is nominating Pastor Cole from Abide Church of The Ridge (Goofy Ridge) and says… Cole is not just and amazing Pastor but friend. Every sermon he gives is filled with the Holy Spirit and always make me and others in his congregation strive to have a strong personal relationship with Christ.

 

Jessie is nominating Pastor Marsha from Celebrate Life of East Peoria and says… My pastor reaches out to help the community whenever she can. On the website she keeps an up to date calendar of help for people in our area.

 

Kim is nominating Pastor Mick from The Pasture Church of Hudson and says… Mick's heart for the people of God and meeting them where they are until they surrender to Christ Jesus.

 

Kim is nominating Pastor Ryan from The Pasture Church of Hudson and says… Pastor Ryan has such love for teaching children about the love and saving grace of God. He and his wife Sara invest heavily in our youth and in children's ministry, especially vacation Bible school each Summer!

 

Kim is nominating Pastor Rich from The Pasture Church of Hudson and says… Paster Rich has a heart for drawing youth and young adults into relationship and speaking biblical truth to each.

 

Kim is nominating Pastor Jeff from The Pasture Church of Hudson and says… Pastor Jeff is my husband and I am nominating him because of his prayer life and how faithfully he carries the people of the Pasture and beyond into the throne room of God.

 

Kim is nominating Pastor Jason from Journey Church of Normal and says… Pastor Jason has a shepherd's heart and is devoted to share the gospel until Christ's return.

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