I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all, in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
- Philippians 1:3-6
This has been a season of transition for BridgePointe as we recently said goodbye to two staff members (Jacob Vangen and Michael Moran). We’ve also had to say goodbye to two families – the Vanderputtens and the Stalveys – who have served at BridgePointe in meaningful ways the last couple of years.
As Paul writes above, we’re partners in the Gospel and our time serving the Kingdom together is one of joy and purpose. When people who are such a big part of our church family move away, we naturally feel the void and grieve their loss. However, we thank God for bringing us together, we celebrate the time we shared, and we are confident that He will continue His work in all of us — both in those that stay and those that go.
We want to take this moment to celebrate the way God has woven our stories together. Read their stories Kingdom service and join us in praying for them. We also invite you to pray for God to work in you or in others to step up to serve to continue the work that these families contributed to.
The Vanderputten Family
John & Shannon Vanderputten came to us in 2018. It is hard to fully describe in just how many ways they contributed. As small group leaders the Vanderputtens generously opened up their home and lives to others. Mitchell and Maddie both were engaged in the BP Kids & Student ministries.
Shannon also served as a high school girls leader with students, forging meaningful relationships with the girls spurring them on to deeper faith in Jesus. The family greatly contributed to BP Kids and many events in more ways than we can mention. It didn’t matter if it was painting set designs, tie-dying t-shirts, organizing supplies or stuffing eggs, they were always willing to do whatever needed to be done! When John wasn’t traveling for work, (or helping to realize an ambitious creative idea of Shannon’s!), he served faithfully on the Production Team at the sound board.
John’s job and the desire to be closer to aging family members has taken the Vanderputtens back to Wisconsin. They will be deeply missed. Pray for them as they settle in, and pray for God to continue to strengthen their faith and use them in big and small ways!
The Stalvey Family
Erin’s job brought the Stalveys to Rhode Island two and a half years ago and they immediately found their place here at BridgePointe. Nick has come to be a familiar face on stage on Sunday mornings as he led worship as part of the Worship Arts team. We will miss his talent, and his heart for Jesus as he led us in worship on Sunday mornings.
Erin served in BP Kids, bringing joy and a contagious love for Jesus to the kids on Sunday mornings. She also wasn’t afraid to get behind the camera, making fun videos for kids when we were shut down during COVID or being a part of communication videos for Sundays.
Transitions with Erin’s career and education are moving them closer to family in the Chattanooga, TN area. They too will be greatly missed. Pray that their faith in Jesus would grow stronger and deeper and that they would find ways to continue to serve His Kingdom.