On Easter Sunday Phil Lasarsky was appointed to serve as an elder by the evangelists of the Chicago Church of Christ.

Nearly one year ago the Chicago Church of Christ faithfully launched a 10-year vision. This vision challenges every disciple in the Chicago Church to examine their own willingness and their own resolve to give up everything, go anywhere and to become whatever God calls us to be.

On March 23^rd at our congregational Easter worship service we saw the church take a significant step forward in our vision. It was with great joy that we announce the appointment of Phil Lasarsky as our newest elder in the Church. With his family (wife Kim, daughter Nicole and son Lane) and the elders looking on Phil knelt before the congregation. The evangelists placed their hands upon him and he was appointed as an elder.

Phil and his family are a great inspiration to all of us particularly in the North Suburban Ministry Center where he has served in a shepherding capacity for many years. Phil and Kim have been faithful Christians for nearly 30 years. They are courageous disciples who are known for their deep love for God's word and for their personal example. Phil has served in many leadership roles in the church over the years and was appointed as one of our teachers in the Chicago Church several years ago.

Paul wrote to Timothy special instructions regarding the appointment of overseers of the church. He wrote, "Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task." (1 Tim. 3:1) Certainly Phil has set his heart on '…becoming whatever God calls him to be.' In that sense Phil has set his heart on being an overseer of God's people. This is truly a noble and godly ambition. Yet, in spite of this great calling and the honor that comes with it, Phil has often shared that he is aware that this is a calling that will require great sacrifice and servitude. He is prepared to make this sacrifice and he serves as an example to all of us.

Paul also told Timothy, "The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor..." (1 Tim. 5:17) We must honor the elders who serve in this capacity. We must pray for them often and continually offer prayers of thanksgiving on their behalf. At this hour let us lift up Lasarsky family in our prayers. Pray for their faithfulness as Phil takes on this new role. Pray also for their courage as they engage themselves fervently in the spiritual battle. To God be the glory. Amen!

AT Arneson , North Suburban Ministry Center Evangelist

From the Chicago Church of Christ website