Assembly Newsletter

Greetings!

This newsletter may feel a little different than usual, but it comes straight from a place of gratitude.

First and foremost, thank you—each and every one of you—for the continued work, faithfulness, and love you show day in and day out. Our Assembly is truly blessed with wonderful Pastors, Ministers, Deacons, Teachers, Singers, Musicians, and, in my opinion, some of the most loving people you could ever meet. I often say it, and I believe it deeply: we are better together.

Over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to travel and visit several of our churches, and I plan to visit many more throughout this year. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the kindness and hospitality you have shown to my wife and me. Those moments of fellowship have been deeply encouraging.

During these visits, one thing has become very clear—there are people across our Assembly who love to hear the Word of God and who are eager to help fulfill the Great Commission. There is a readiness to reach those who may not yet know Christ, and that is something to rejoice over.

As we move forward this year, we intend to prayerfully create more opportunities for our Assembly to do just that: to strengthen our congregations and to reach those who are looking for a true friend in Jesus.

I ask that you join me and our Council in seeking the Lord for wisdom and guidance as we pursue His direction together. May our hearts remain united as we continue the work He has called us to do.

Jesse Starnes

Moving forward in 2026

One of my favorite verses is found in the Psalms, where the writer declares, “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1–2, KJV).

As we look ahead to 2026, we realize: God is our source of strength. As the Lord reminds us, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6, KJV). Any growth we experience as an Assembly will be through His blessings and promises.

Our calling is not just to remain faithful, but also to be fruitful. Jesus gave us our mission clearly when He said, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations” (Matthew 28:19, KJV). We are called to reach for the lost, to make disciples, and to help raise up believers who are grounded and settled in the truth.

As an Assembly, we want to move forward with purpose and vision, remembering that when our hearts are united around the mission God has given us, He brings the increase.

So as we step into this year, let's do so with confidence and faith, knowing that “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13, KJV). With our eyes fixed on Him and our hands and hearts committed to the work, we trust the Lord to lead us, grow us, and use us for His glory.

Closing Thought

A quick reminder of these upcoming events:

Spring Governing Elders Meeting: March 14, 2026, Ryman Hall, Dalton, GA

105th Annual Assembly: July 17-19, held at the Dalton Convention Center

Jesse Starnes

Overseer | President/CEO