Andy Wilson joined our team last summer as Executive Leader of the Ministry and Operations for First Baptist Church of Springdale and The Church at Pinnacle Hills. He is responsible for day-to-day ministry, operations, and administration. He serves as second chair to Dr. Ronnie Floyd. Andy is the Board Chairman of Shiloh Christian School. He comes with a wealth of leadership experience. Andy served as the Chief Executive Officer for the Soderquist Center of Leadership and Ethics from 2001 – 2008. Prior to his tenure with the Soderquist Center, Andy spent 25 years as an innovative leader at Walmart Stores, Inc., which included more than 10 years as Vice President and Officer of Store Operations and six years as Vice President of the People Division. Andy is a 22-year resident of Springdale and has been married to Becky for 26 years. Andy and Becky have one child Andrea who is married to Aaron Brown. Andy and Becky have three grandchildren, Taylor, Zach, and Reed. Andy’s hobbies are cycling and fly fishing.

Last Sunday, we had a great start to our summer. We had over 40 total professions of faith on both campuses. I want to thank Ken Freeman for his passion, his purpose in his life, and his commitment to God.

I have spoken to many Connection Groups on the Springdale Campus for the last two months. Becky and I want to thank all of you for your comments, encouragement and prayers. We will be visiting all Connection Groups on both campuses this summer.

One of the topics we have talked much about is our new Financial Ministry called “Finding Freedom.” When we came on staff, Pastor asked us to expand the Financial Ministry. We are both very passionate about the importance of managing your personal finances.

Becky and I attended a financial seminar 15 years ago in the Pastor’s Class. We made a commitment to get our personal finances in order, and over the last 15 years we have completely eliminated our debt – yes, that is correct, we are debt free…  Over 50% of marriages fail due to personal financial problems.  We have not had an argument about finances in 15 years. (We do disagree over the thermostat setting.)

In December 2008, we taught the basics of financial planning to over 1,200 members on the Springdale campus and 600 members on the Pinnacle Hills campus. We offer free confidential financial coaching and Dave Ramsey Financial University Classes on both campuses.

Let me give you an example of what the “Finding Freedom” classes have accomplished at the Pinnacle Campus regarding debt elimination and savings. Total debt paid off – $1,999,405; total debt paid off, not including real estate, is $700,000 and total saved $333,114.

Tomorrow I will give you some very practical tips on managing your personal finances.