trained as a pastor in his own country, and he strongly
believes that God has called him to Pine Mountain for the
specific purpose of reaching Out to people. Since his arrival,
I know of many who have been touched by this young man's
ministry. In fact, I can honestly say that I'm a better person
for having spent time with him-his deeply rooted faith is a
challenge to me. And I know many of you would agree.
Anyway, his name was raised at our last board meeting as a
potential pastoral candidate for our church. We discussed
this for quite some time without reaching an agreement.
Finally, we decided this was too big of an issue to decide on
our own, and as both Michael and Jed are out of town this
weekend, we thought today would be a good day to let the
congregation discuss this possibility and make a decision.
We have mentioned our interest to Michael, and he very
hum bly said he only wanted to do God's will. We have made
no official job offer to him. What we want today is to hear
from you." Sam nodded over to Jim Hanson, another board
member, and Jim came up to the pulpit. "Jim has requested
this opportunity to talk to you today in representation of
those on the board who are opposed to this idea."
Jim cleared his throat. "It's not that I have anything per-
sonally against Michael Abundi," he began carefully. "But I
am concerned about the stability of this congregation right 230 ~ Melody Carlson
now. We've been through a lot in the past several years, and
yet we have a really good bunch of people here. I'm just wor-
ried that bringing in an outsider right now could have a neg-
ative impact on our future as a church. I'm afraid Michael
might not understand our culture and our ways, and that he
might alienate others in town who aren't as open-minded as
som~
"You mean because he's a black man," called Lou Hen-
derson from nearby. He was also a member of the board.
Jim frowned. "Yes, to be honest with everyone here, the
racial issue was discussed during our recent meeting. It's no
secret that we already have some folks in town who are
trying to make this an even bigger issue right now. We
wonder, do we really need that kind of controversy for our
church?"
"Jim is referring to folks like Randy Ebbert," said Lou
Iwith a scowl, "and there are those of us on the board who
would rather not give that man the time of day, let alone let
him influence our choice as to who should lead this church.''
Sam stood up now and held up his hands. "Okay, guys,
we've debated this enough already. I'm letting Jim present his
side before we open this to discussion and take it to a vote.
"Then someone had better represent the other side," said
Lou defensively, and Maggie nodded in agreement.
"I thought I already did that," said Sam.
"Not very well. I think you were trying to be too impar-