As our last e-newsletter stated, the “baton” of the role of executive director has been passed on to me. It is a bittersweet time to see that Paul is moving on from the ministry of K.I.D.S Inc., but at the same time we know that the Lord is good and in control. Paul has faithfully served the Lord in his role as executive director since 2003 and has been used to help kids to meet the Lord, to know Him more personally, and how to show the love of Christ. I have had the privilege of serving alongside Paul since February of 2008. Though I am a man of many words, I don’t think I could say enough about the impact that Paul has had on my life personally. He has been an incredible example on how to relentlessly show the love of Christ to people regardless of who they are or where they come from, and he has been one of my closest friends. I know that the Lord is going to continue to use Paul to bless people wherever he is. His presence around K.I.D.S. Inc. will be greatly missed!

The New Guy (in the directors chair)

For those of you that do not know me, my name is Jake Medlong. I am the new executive director of K.I.D.S. Inc.. I am originally from Cleveland, Ohio but moved out here to Indianapolis to attend Calvary Chapel Bible College. I graduated from the Bible College in 2002 and promptly moved to downtown Indianapolis to be the worship leader at Horizon Christian Fellowship-Central (a.k.a. Horizon Central). After being at the church for several years I started volunteering with K.I.D.S. Inc. (which has been held in Horizon Central’s building) for the Friday night ‘Hang Time”. I started volunteering in January of 2007, came on staff in February of 2008, and have been here since. I have had the privilege of being married to my wife Heidi for the last 2 years. She has been a faithful encouragement and support in the ministry. We have a 1 year old daughter Julia and a second daughter due in March.

Jake, his wife Heidi and daughter Julia

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Where We Are Today

With any change in leadership there will be changes in the ministry. Please keep us at K.I.D.S. Inc. in your prayers as we walk through these changes. We will continue to have the weekly events such as Hang Time, Girls Night, and N.C.L. but we also want to see what else the Lord would have us do. We have had the privilege of seeing more kids not only professing Christ but growing in their relationship with Him as well.

Passing of the Baton

by Paul E. Velázquez

At some time or another, every ministry will experience change or transition.

Sometimes the transition is simply making changes or adjustments to what God has called us to do. At other times, transition can mean a complete change of ministry direction or focus, moving from one phase of ministry to another. Either way, transition or change in ministry does not catch God by surprise but it’s most likely part of His plan.

Transition is happening at KIDS Inc!

Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace, and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome. (Amplified)

I find it time for me to give full focus and attention to my family and home, and enter a new stage in my life seeking to be obedient to God’s will. My family and I have been blessed beyond expectation through out many years by your love, support and prayers. We continue to covet these now for our family, marriage and future as we follow the plans the Lord has for us.

Now, I am privileged and excited to announce the ”Passing ofthe Baton” of leadership of KIDS Inc toJake Medlong.

I believe Jake to be not only equipped and able but called by God to take on this ministry. God has given him favor with kids, parents, schools, and the community making this change very clear and “idiot proof”. He is a loved friend, a man led by God, and has my upmost trust and confidence to lead KIDS Inc in accordance to God’s plan.

Through scripture we know that God’s plan and purpose already contain everything we need to successfully fulfill what God has called us to do. God’s plan is fully furnished with His power and ability, His grace and wisdom, His blessing and provision. Therefore, KIDS Inc and Jake are in the best place possible; His hands.

So, as we walk through this I urge you to keep us in prayer, and to continue giving Jake and KIDS Inc your love and support.

Colossians 1:9 For this reason we also, from the day we heard of it, have not ceased to pray and make [[a]special] request for you, [asking] that you may be filled with the [b]full (deep and clear) knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom [[c]in comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God] and in understanding and discernment of spiritual things-(Amplified)

Again my deepest thanks and appreciation for all your care and support expressed to my family and I over the years. They have clearly reflected our Lord’s love in a very personal way.

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”  Galatians 6:7

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.  But the greatest of these is love.”  1Corinthians 13:13

“Love must be sincere.  Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”  Romans 12:9

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”  Matthew 5:44

This week in Kids Church we are talking about God’s desire for us to love those who are mean to us.

Keep warm out there!

“I the Lord do not change.”  Malachi 3:6

“In your hearts do not think evil of each other.”  Zechariah 7:10

“The Lord within her is righteous; he does no wrong.”      Zephaniah 3:5

“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble.  He cares for those who trust in Him.”   Nahum1:7