Pastor Tim with his wife, Beth, and their three daughters, aka the Princess Posse

Pastor Tim Smith and I go way back. We both began serving as Mars Hill interns early on, and, other than Pastor Mark, the two of us have been in leadership the longest. It’s been awesome to grow with each other as fathers, husbands, and pastors. This month we get the chance to recognize Pastor Tim and officially send him off to Portland, Oregon, to plant a new Mars Hill church. He’ll be preaching in Ballard on August 21, and his sermon will replay at all other Mars Hill locations the following week. Together we’ll learn from him, pray for him, and take a special offering to help launch the Portland church and get them into the great building God has provided. Specifically, here’s how Pastor Tim would like us to pray for him for the next few weeks and months:

The transition from Seattle to Portland has been significantly more intense and draining than we anticipated as a family. Please pray for us as we settle into our new home. Pray that my three daughters find new friends and connect well as they begin at a new school in the fall. You can also pray for my wife Beth and I as we settle into new rhythms and relationships. Above all, pray for the mission of Mars Hill Portland, that disciples of Jesus would be made in a city that needs him very much.

Our collective mission as Mars Hill Church is to make disciples and plant churches. Few of us will actually move with the Smiths to Portland, but all of us can participate, celebrate, and respond to the work of the Holy Spirit, who has given us yet another opportunity to see more people meet Jesus. For me, Tim’s departure is bittersweet. His visit to Ballard this month is a chance to say goodbye to a dear friend who won’t be around quite as often, but it’s also evidence of God at work in our church, our families, and the hearts of our pastors. Thank you, Pastor Tim, for your friendship and your faithful example. If you won't be around for the special offering, you can give online to support Mars Hill Portland.