Member Update
Introducing Elder Candidates
Mission Church Family,
We are excited to announce that three men from our congregation have entered the final phase of our elder process, and we are preparing for an Elder Installation Service on October 20th. Over the next 30 days, we invite you to pray fervently for these men as they complete their journey through our elder assessment. This phase includes exit interviews and final assignments, all leading up to a unanimous decision by the current advisory board regarding their installation.
We take the appointment of elders seriously, understanding that this role is not just about oversight but also shepherding the church body in submission to Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Our elder process ensures that those who serve meet the biblical qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1, as well as demonstrate godly character, conviction, and competency. Each of these men has undergone rigorous training and assessment, preparing them for the weighty responsibility of elder leadership.
During this time, we encourage you, the members of Mission Church, to pray for wisdom and discernment for both the elder candidates and the current advisory elders. Additionally, if you have any concerns, questions, or affirmations about the candidacy of any individual, we invite you to share them with us during this 30-day period.
We look forward to celebrating this important milestone in our church's life as we entrust these men to continue the work of shepherding and leading Mission Church faithfully under Christ.
The Candidates
Brad Wilcox
Brad has been married to his wife, Becca, for 13 years, and together they have two wonderful children, Bryce and Baylee. He currently serves as the Warehouse Manager for Revere Shoes in Hickory. Brad’s journey with Christ began in 2010, and since then, he has felt a strong calling to discipleship. His passion for overseas missions, including serving as a missionary in Guatemala, has also significantly shaped his walk with God. At Mission Church, Brad has been instrumental in developing the men’s ministry and leading the safety team. He is eager to continue fostering deep relationships that help others grow into disciples of Jesus, modeling Christ’s example of love and accountability.
Michael Tooley
Michael serves part-time at Mission Church as our Deacon of Music and Creative Direction and works full-time as a Visual Media Specialist for a company in Swannanoa. He and his wife, Rachel, moved to Morganton in 2021 to join our church family and have been married for 14 years. They are prayerfully considering how God is leading them into starting a family, exploring both adoption and respite care. Michael holds a degree in ministry from Central Christian College and has served in ministry for over a decade. Since joining Mission Church, he has been instrumental in building up our music team. With a deep passion for worship and a calling to ministry, Michael is excited to see how God will continue to shape and use him to serve the church and further the mission of the gospel in our community.
Alex Bustle
Alex serves as the Aquatics and Fitness Supervisor for the Town of Valdese Parks and Recreation Department. As a certified and licensed Recreational Therapist, Alex is passionate about creating opportunities for people of all abilities to engage in recreational activities. He also co-coordinates the Burke County Special Olympics and coaches snow skiing and bowling for athletes in the county. At Mission Church, Alex has served as a community group leader and has been instrumental in building out our kids team and facilities team. He and his wife, Jessi, have three children: Corbin, Sawyer, and Benjamin. Alex has a heart for serving those with disabilities and desires to see people from all walks of life brought to the feet of Jesus, living out the gospel through both word and action.
Save the date
- Sunday, Oct 13th - Equip Night: End Times
- Friday -Saturday, Oct 18-19 - Men’s Retreat
- Sunday, Oct 20th - Elder Installation Service
- Sunday Nov 3rd - Member Meeting