Welcome to Lebanon First! It is an honor and privilege for me to be part of this wonderful church, and I look forward to meeting you in person. In the meantime, let me give you a little of my theology...

I believe that God’s church is built on three pillars: Prayer, Missions, and Disciples. In order for God’s church to be relevant, those participating in the life of a community of faith must make these three pillars a priority. This is done by intentionally being in conversation with God each day; seeing the needs of those in your neighborhood and responding to those needs; and lastly (but also firstly) inviting neighbors and friends to a church that preaches the Word, enjoys good fellowship, and makes a difference in the lives of those who attend.

Here are my core values:

1. Integrity - I will not compromise my faith or God’s purpose for my life.

2. My purpose - To glorify God in all I do as an Ordained Pastor of the United Methodist Church

3. My family - Second only to God on my priority list. They will receive the same attention I give to my job.

4. God calls me to be obedient – I will be successful only if I am obedient.

5. God’s grace - There are no ‘throw away’people. God’s grace, forgiveness and righteousness are available to all

6. Change - Change is inevitable, so embrace it. It is not a burden but a gift from God

7. Being a steward - My time, gifts, talents, etc. are gifts from God and are to be used to further God’s Kingdom

And these are my three key verses from Scripture:

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins, and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

1 John 4:16 “God is love.”

Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God.”

I look forward to serving with you as we bring the Word of God to people who need to find Jesus. See you in church!

Rev. Peter J. Wehrly

August 2011