Twin City Bible Church
Ministry Partner: Johnny Gravino
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States
Transition
As of early April, a few weeks after my return from travel to the US for annual ministry at, and around, the Shepherds’ Conference, I was asked by the leadership of Grace Ministries International (GMI) to step away from my preaching, teaching, and pastoral/missionary duties on the field. The reason for this request was due to the fact that my character (humility, and integrity of speech) were judged to be not above reproach as a servant of Christ.
It is very hard to truly express one’s thinking, and heart at a time like this in all transparency. Thankfully, God’s grace has led me, out of fear of the Lord, and for the love and respect of the GMI leadership, and ultimately, because of sheer accountability to all those who have invested in our ministry, to receive, to listen carefully, and submit to the accusations. I am wanting to own up to my responsibilities in the matter as time gradually allows me more reflection, and repentance.
The willingness to follow through with this submission is motivated by the understanding that I do have areas to work on, and grow in my own sanctification with regards to my life and ministry. The ministry has never been about me, as I’m certain, all servants of Christ believe, and live out. Hence, we welcome GMI’s assessment, and take comfort in God’s providence, and sovereignty leading us to greater growth in Him, and ultimate transformation in the likeness of Christ. Please pray for us as a family, and for me especially in that regard.
Next Steps
We praise God for much help, and direction for the immediate future that awaits us.
First, and foremost, we are grateful to GMI for their continued care for us through this period of turbulence. We have been provided for financially for the last three months. GMI will continue to helps us financially through our move/transition, and initial season in NC (see below). In addition, the GMI leadership team has regularly reached out, and ministered to us, and continues to express their desire for our reinstatement in the Lord’s time.
Secondly, we are very grateful to Twin-City Bible Church in Winston-Salem, NC where Carey Hardy is Senior Pastor. The elders, and pastoral staff, and church overall, have graciously stepped up to receive us as a family in their midst. We will soon be headed there for a year or so this September where I can be helped, discipled, and bettered by the elders for future ministry.
We thank you again for your faithfulness to us throughout 15 years, and a little more, of our commitment to the church, Gospel, and Christ’s work in Italy, and Europe. We trust the Lord for what He is doing through this. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Our prayer is you will remain encouraged that God will work in our lives through this time. Lastly, we are available for your questions, and additional clarification on our future.