4. CURRENTS
John Rengifo Appointed Ministerial Director
John Rengifo, lead pastor of the Ellicott City
(Md.) church, has accepted an invitation to serve
as the next ministerial director of the Chesapeake
Conference. The announcement comes after the
Chesapeake Conference Executive Committee
unanimously affirmed the recommendation from
conference administration.
Rengifo will take over the role previously held
by Eli Rojas, who has recently transitioned to the
North American Division Evangelism Institute as an
associate director. Prior to his service at the Ellicott
City church, Rengifo was an associate pastor at the
Atholton church in Columbia, Md.
“Elder Rengifo possesses the spiritual gifts
and skills that are essential to effectively minis-
ter to ministers, especially in the challenging and
complex times in which we live,” says Jerry Lutz,
conference president. “| am confident that, by
God’s grace, Elder Rengifo will rise to the occasion
and provide excellent leadership in this important
conference department.”
Rengifo is eager to lend his support to the con-
ference’s pastors by helping them strengthen their
sense of purpose and meaning in their ministry
contexts. He says, “lI want our pastors to know that
I’m looking forward to getting to know them and
their families, that I'm praying for them, and that
| will be accessible and available, and a listening
ear for encouragement.”
In addition to supporting pastors, Rengifo looks
forward to working closely with local church leaders
around the conference. In his new role, Rengifo will
collaborate with church boards to find new pastors,
organize practical ministry trainings, and provide
resources for elders and deacons. “| appreciate God’s
people everywhere and their commitment to the local
church,” Rengifo says. “l look forward to meeting [our
members] and being of support.”
Northeast Honors First Responders in Baltimore
The Northeast church in Parkville, Md., recently
opened its doors wide open, not just for their reg-
ular worship service, but to host a special event—
First Responders Day. It was a day to honor and
extend heartfelt prayers for representatives from
the Baltimore County Police Department, Baltimore
Baltimore County first responders bow their heads
as the congregation prays for their safety.
County Fire Department, and the Providence
Volunteer Fire Company.
An outpouring of respect and appreciation
echoed through the service, as church members
and representatives from the local community asso-
ciation thanked the brave men and women who keep
them safe. The intention of the ceremony was not
only to recognize these first responders, but it was
held as part of a larger initiative by the church to
connect more deeply with the community.
“This event is part of our cycle of evangelism,”
says Anibal Hansell, pastor of Northeast. “We see it
as a bridge that connects members of the community
with the services and ministries of our church.”
A highlight of the event was a special meal after
the church service, prepared and served by church
members. This act of hospitality served as a platform
for dialogue and interaction between the community
and the first responders.
Currents is published in the Visitor by the Chesapeake Conference m 6600 Martin Road, Columbia, MD 21044
Phone: (410) 995-1910 = ccosda.org ® President, Jerry Lutz = Editor, Evan Knott
18 | VISITOR September/October 2023