While some churches suffer from what I jokingly call “staff infection”, we are blessed at DeSoto Hills with what could only be described as “staff affection”. I make this statement based on the fact that we have individuals who serve here that truly care for one another and for this church family. Ministry can be difficult, but these folks pull together to provide a working environment that helps lighten the load for all involved. Probably some of the most unsung heroes of any church staff are the secretaries. I am sad to say we have two that are are leaving us. Joan Lyons is taking early retirement and Cheryl Blanton is leaving to help with her family’s growing business. Joan has been the friendly voice and welcoming smile that so many have experienced as they called or came by the church office throughout the week. She has become an expert at multi-tasking. On any given day, on top of her regular duties, you might find Joan ordering pizza for the youth choir, negotiating with the bus company for transportation, or c onsoling a church member who has had a bad day. She is never too busy to stop and help a fellow staffer out and she is going to be sorely missed. Cheryl has been keeping the books for DeSoto Hills as a part time financial secretary since we began. Her willingness to help serve in this position on such a limited basis has been such a blessing. She has worked in the office only a few hours a week, but she has been on call for us 24/7. Thanks, Cheryl, for helping us keep track of all those receipts, camp fees, and weekly offerings. The good news is that although they will not be working here, both Joan and Cheryl are members of DeSoto Hills, so they will still be around. I am also happy to announce that Jo Tubbs is still with us and Deb Curtis has been hired as the new church/financial secretary. She will be training alongside Joan and Cheryl for the next few weeks. She is well equipped to do both jobs and I hope you will get a chance to come by or call to welcome her. Her husband is the pastor of New Prospect Baptist Church in Lewisburg, so she understands the unique challenges of church=2 0life. I am so grateful that the Lord continues to provide us with committed and caring individuals to serve on the staff of DeSoto Hills.

Blessed beyond measure,

Bro. James