A dear friend

Newby, Blueberry, Phil Newberry. All names my first boss/youth pastor/good friend's dad goes by. Phil was over the whole 7-12th grades when I was in the Student Ministry at Bellevue. He was my specific student pastor during 11 & 12th grade years. I worked for Phil as a Student worker for 5 years and then was a summer intern for him the summer I finished my freshman year of college. He was the best boss a person could ask for. His heart for people and his love for the Lord shines through every single thing he does! Phil, and his wife Jeanne, taught me what ministry should look like. Phil has a saying that truly shaped me: "if you're early you're on time; if you're on time, you're late." Phil always asks me (even though I'm married now), "What's New" and my response was always "my name!" :) Even since moving away and getting married, Phil and Jeanne have continued to pray for, encourage, and support Andy and I as we have stepped out in ministry. They opened their home to me on countless occasions through the years, and always made me feel part of their family. Needless to say, the Newberry's have had a huge impact in my life!

Phil was told a little while back he has kidney cancer. He goes in tomorrow to have a kidney removed and they believe this will remove all of his cancer. Would you please join with me in praying for my dear friend Phil, his wife Jeanne, his kids Tyler (and wife and kids) and Natalie, and the rest of the family as they go through this journey? I know your prayers are greatly appreciated! Thanks!