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In numerous post-October conference debrief conversations, two predominant recurring themes have emerged. The first is the atmosphere in the room at Grace Church. I’m confident each of us has been deeply engaged in the kingdom, and in some degree of ministry leadership long enough to know that we can plan, pray, and prepare, but the corporate atmosphere we experienced can only be attributed to the Father being in our midst. Only God can grace a place with what we all so strongly sensed. We are deeply grateful for His presence at such a historic and pivotal moment for the FMCI family.
Moments like these bond hearts and lives together for the future, which speaks to vision. Out of this has come several meaningful conversations centered around the excitement and potential that leaders are sensing. One leader has recently offered their excellent training and discipleship curriculum for FMCI’s use, both domestically and internationally. Another trusted leader has initiated a strategic conversation with FMCI regarding a potential collaboration to serve a significant number of churches across two nations. Finally, another leader has invited us into a region of the United States that would represent new territory for FMCI to host a Regional Reformation Institute. We are deeply grateful for this invitation, as well as for several other doors the Father is opening.
I’ll introduce the second theme by referencing a conversation I recently had in Washington, D.C., with Bill Thomas. Bill and I spent time together after an evening meeting, visiting over dinner. Bill and Kimberly are longtime friends of Bro. Jim, FMCI, and ILE, and they were with us in Willis. I asked Bill for his feedback on the FMCI conference, specifically regarding the leadership transition. He shared that he sees FMCI as a carrier of the five-fold ministry in the kingdom and, therefore, as having a mantle and assignment going forward.
He then raised an important question regarding the relationship and roles between Rodney and me. I believe this reflects wisdom and discernment, and it highlights the need to clearly articulate this relationship to the FMCI family as we steward this leadership transition with transparency and covenantal clarity.
Thankfully, Rodney and Stephanie, and Deb and I have been friends for decades and are connected through our mutual respect and love for Jim and Jean. It is both an honor and a covenantal commitment to labor together. We have done significant groundwork regarding our respective roles and division of labor on behalf of FMCI in this new season and assignment. Building on the areas each of us has prioritized in ministry for decades, we are taking a careful look at how we can best serve FMCI going forward.
Two things should be clearly stated. First, Bro. Jim has earned the right to do whatever he desires to do within FMCI, and there is no intention — now or ever — to marginalize his role, voice, or influence. We honor him deeply and remain grateful for his decades of faithful apostolic leadership.
At the same time, we believe our current responsibility requires that no area of FMCI remain uncovered with regard to clear leadership oversight. It is important that there be clarity as to who carries first-chair responsibility in each area, so that the work continues with stability, accountability, and momentum.
Our commitment is to fully honor our past while intentionally building the wineskin necessary to steward and grow FMCI in our lifetime and for the generations that will follow. May great grace be upon this FMCI family as we advance into His kingdom purposes together into 2026!
Rodney Lord and Hope Taylor
PS.
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The honor service for Kathy Gabler on December 16 at Grace Church, Willis, is available at the Grace Church Willis YouTube channel (click here).
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A 2025 FMCI October conference publication is available at FMCInet.org. It is a summary of each message presented, along with prophetic words released.
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