As he closes his first letter to the Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul gives these instructions “Dear Brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other.” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) This Sunday, October 12, 2025, those of us who call East Side our church home have an opportunity to follow Paul’s instructions.

 

Rev. Dr. Anita Jack is retiring from her position as our Pastor of Pastoral Care after 17 years. Pastor Anita has faithfully served the Lord by serving the people of East Side. She has made thousands of hospital and nursing home visits. She has taken Communion to those who are shut in at home. She has led multiple weekday Bible Studies for women in our church and community. She has represented East Side on the boards of several community organizations that serve the “least of these” in Anderson and Madison County. She has “worked hard among us.” As she steps into the next season of her life and her next season of ministry impact we want to celebrate what God has done through her at East Side for almost two decades.

 

I have invited Rev. Dr. Ed Foggs, retired Executive Secretary of the Church of God, to preach the morning message this Sunday, October 12. Dr. Foggs was Anita’s pastor when she was growing up here in Anderson. He is a respected leader in the Church of God and a member of East Side. I encourage you to make plans to be with us this Sunday at either 9:15 or 10:45AM. A reception in honor of Pastor Anita will follow each service.