Pastoral Transition: Laurel Church, Bellingham, WA

Rev. Robert Cameron’s retirement from his ministry at Laurel Church was celebrated February 8th, 2020.

Joey Spoelstra Called as Lead Pastor

Joey Spoelstra's first day of service for Laurel Church will be Sunday, February 9. In some ways this will be a homecoming in that Joey was raised in the surrounding area to the area. He graduated from High School in nearby Lynden, WA before heading out to Missoula, MT roughly nine years ago. He served first as the Kids Pastor and more recently as the Youth Pastor for Zootown Church in Missoula. Both of these ministries were dynamic and growing given that Zootown Church grew from 12 people to over 1,200 in just ten years.

Joey brings a passionate commitment to the ministry along with a gentle spirit. In his own words he describes his vision for future ministry: "Opposition is trying to come against the massive revival and breakthrough that God is orchestrating through his church. My church in Missoula was outreach-minded, had a coffee shop for 10 years downtown, has had services at the secular university, and has partnered with several non-profit organizations that help with children, the homeless, and other people that are in need. I feel like God has gifted my wife and I to be evangelistic by nature. We love talking with strangers and making them feel loved. We enjoy being out in the community. God has gifted us to connect with just about anyone. This isn't anything we can take credit for, rather, God has give us this kind of heart for others."

Joey is married to Angie and they have two children. They are presently in the midst of making their move to the Bellingham area. Please keep them in your prayers in the coming days. The picture below shows the Zootown Church leaders laying hands on Joey and Angie on January 14th as they commissioned them, sending them out with their love, blessing and support to their new ministry context.