Pirate memories . . .

This season of our lives has been very sweet. It's been a joy and honor to stand beside you and watch the Lord work in your life as he worked in those you ministered to. I've loved being your helper in this ministry to college students and I'm glad to be your helper as we move in a new direction. I love you very much and I thank God often for your labor of love to the students He placed at East Carolina University. I wanted to include just a few pictures from this last year. Our family will always love Pirate Football. Tailgating before the game with a group of college students and having fun *without alcohol* is unheard of on most campuses. I'm thankful our children have this experience to draw from when they get to college.




This is one of my favorite pictures of you with the kids!


The first CRU meeting as the freshmen were taking the "Pirate Pledge" that you wrote. It's a hit with every class!



We LOVED going to CRU with you on Thursday nights. It's one of my sweetest memories as a family being involved in this ministry. I'm thankful that C and Lydia have had the privilege of seeing their daddy preach the word boldly on the campus of East Carolina University. I'm also thankful for the countless hours of having students in our home to study the bible, pray together and enjoy true community. Our children have been exposed to what it looks like to "live a life of ministry" and I give thanks to God.

From Becca Hartman

Craig:
It's hard for me to think back to when I was a freshman and newbie to Crusade at ECU and how I hardly knew you or your family at all...now, I consider you and your sweet family very close and dear to me, and I am incredibly thankful that God placed me at ECU in Crusade! Cru was the first place that I really had ever heard someone tell me that saying a "salvation prayer" doesn't save you, and that there MUST be a significant change in your life that you can see Christ working in you as opposed to before you knew Him. It was within Cru that I started looking at my life and my past, and wondering where the change actually had occurred. It was within ECU Cru that I actually looked at my testimony and tried to define when Christ changed my heart, and how I am different now. I am so thankful for God's sovereignty with Him bringing me into Cru and having you and Brad there, teaching truth. Thank you for standing up for the Gospel and making a difference in my life, and the lives of students. Thank you for challenging me and loving me enough to ask the hard questions that no one else wants to ask. Thanks for always talking with me about photography stuff, and showing me things about your camera and in photoshop. Thank you for letting me get to know your wife and your kids on a deeper level. Thank you for allowing me join the ECU CRU team for this past year and minister to students alongside you and Brad... Though it wasn't always easy, and I didn't do everything right, I am very thankful for your help with everything and encouraging me to get things done. It has really been a pleasure and a joy to get to know you on a different level than just as a student, and it has been made even more evident to me the love and genuine care you have for students who don't know Christ. It encourages me to become more passionate, and to get to know the Lord more deeply so I can love with the love of Christ more greatly. Thanks for all you have done in this ministry; it will not be forgotten by those you have impacted. I believe you have left a legacy here at ECU that will last long, long time. I appreciate you and your family's hard work and dedication at ECU! You all will be greatly missed, but I am excited to see how God will use you guys in other people's lives. Thanks again for what you said Thursday night at CRU... I don't think I will ever be able to read Ephesians 2 the same way again without thinking of that time and message! I will be thinking of you all often and praying for this next chapter in your lives.

Love you guys!
Becca

From Jordan Parks

Craig,

When I think of you and your ministry in my life, though many Paul’s words come to mind, one of Jesus’s most popular statements takes precedence: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” A little note can’t express how much God has done in my life through you. At one of the most pivotal times in my life, you spoke words saturated in good teaching, yet given out of true biblical love. For my entire life I had followed the “still small voice” path for making decisions, but you taught me a true, biblical understanding of how to make decisions. Yes, the books and seminars helped clarify that understanding; yet the way you took time to not only teach me, but also live your life that way, honestly had one of the most important impacts on my life.

Since the almost two years that have passed, I’ve been able to take what you taught me and show that to my own dad, my mom, and several other friends. I also still find myself in Greenville (unlike what could’ve possibly been Seattle, haha), and your decision to stay here and minister has encouraged my own contentment. I know it has been difficult, but you have been a faithful disciple of Christ, and you are impacting many students at critical times in their life. I pray you continue your work, and I hope that we can continue to meet up every now and then. I am so thankful for your teaching with love and your life that mirrors Christ.

- Jordan Parks, c/o 2013

PS – I also hope we have the opportunity to work together in the future (shhh…)

From Monica Powell

Craig,

You have been such an encouragement in my life during my four years at ECU in Cru. You helped me to understand and realize the gospel, sins in my life, what a personal ministry is, and what it really means to be a follower of Christ and to have a heart change. Without you and Brad, working as team to turn lost students into Christ-centered laborers, I would have missed out on so many wonderful things that Christ wanted to show me and use me for. When I first came to Cru I fully believed that I was a Christian. But, I was lost in a sea of lies and misconceptions about the gospel. You helped me to fully understand what it means to be a Christian and you challenged me repeatedly, because I didn’t want to hear it the first time☺, to accept that I became a whole hearted, Christ-centered Christian when I was in college, not when I walked the aisle at 5. This impacted my life tremendously and completely changed how I viewed Christ, how I viewed myself, and how I witnessed to others. You constantly encouraged me to learn, know, and desire more of Christ and you spent countless hours pushing me, teaching me, and guiding me to know Christ more and to disciple others. The impact that you have made will impact not only the rest of my life, but innumerable others that I will be able to touch and teach because of my personal ministry.

I am also thankful for your discipleship and friendship to my husband. You helped to show him what it looks like to spiritually lead a family and to follow Christ’s example in loving his bride. You helped to push him toward Christ, explain scripture to him, and become a friend to him. God has used you to shape our family into one that will follow him and raise up our children to follow him, under the leadership of a Christ-focused husband, which is something I am forever thankful for.

Monica Powell

From Curt Powell

Craig,

As I think back on my time in college, I am tremendously grateful for your friendship and your leadership. Thank you for all the time and energy you invested in my life. Those years at ECU you were so formative in my spiritual growth, and example of humility, faithfulness, and commitment to increasing Christ's renown really ministered to me and taught me a lot about what it means to live as godly man. The Lord used you greatly in my life during my years as a university student, and I am so very thankful for you.

As much as I have been encouraged and instructed by your leadership, I know that this is true for generations of students like me. And so I want to thank you for your personal investment in my life, and also for your investment in the lives of so many other students. It's very important work, and I am confident that the Lord will reward you richly. Keep up the good fight, brother! I love you, and I am thankful for your partnership in the Gospel!

Grace and peace,
Marcus Glover

From Jody Jones

Dear Craig,

As you celebrate 11 years of marriage to Kim, I wanted to say thank you for your friendship and your willingness to spend some time helping me work through God's Word. Who would've thought that when our paths intially crossed 15 years ago that they would lead back to this place. I'm very grateful for the words of truth and encouragement you've imparted to me. More importantly, I appreciate the desire of your heart to help a brother in Christ work through his struggles and mature in his faith. As you've reached out to me, I've been able to learn and grow as man and been able to truly examine my the desires of my own heart. You and Kim have such a wonderful marriage and your committment to each other and to serving God is a thing of beauty. I look forward to our friendship growing and getting to know you and family even better.

Sincerely,

Jody Jones

From Ashley Wittenauer

Dear Craig,

My first thought when I think of you is wise. Of all the people I’ve met in my life, you have taught me the most about the Bible. I think that’s a pretty big deal! Because of that, you’ve changed my life in a major way. Your teaching, encouragement, and challenges have pushed me over the past four years to be a better student of the Word and to live a life that brings glory to Jesus. I can’t thank you enough for that.

Another word I think of when I think of you is brave. I admire the sacrifices you’ve made to lead the ministry on ECU’s campus, for speaking the truth of God’s word, even when it’s not what people “want” to hear, and for the way you pursue others with the Gospel, without any hesitation of what they might think. You are a great example of a disciple of Jesus, and it’s been a privilege to be your friend and walk along side of you as you strive to live out a life that is glorifying to God.
I can’t help but think, not only about the impact you’ve had on my life, but also the difference you’ve made in the life of my future husband. I’m so grateful for the example you’ve been to Nate of a godly husband and father and for the many times in discipleship where you challenged him with scripture and taught him how to lead as a man of the God. Your loving and caring influence on his life will, as a result, influence our marriage for a lifetime.

I’m so thankful for the time you’ve invested in my life and for your passion in seeing college students come to have a relationship with Christ. When I think back on college, my memories are flooded with numerous leadership meetings, Bible studies, planning events, meeting freshman, and mostly, being guided and loved on by you and your family. So, thank you for making a difference in my life and for having an eternal impact on who I am today.

Love,
Ashley Wittenauer
c/o 2011

From Ben Tugwell

Craig,
You are a true brother in Christ. It has been an overwhelming privilege to serve along side of you for the last several years. I've learned a great deal about you in our time together but there are a few things that I believe make up who you are:
You are a man who lives by conviction. I can trust your discernment and how you handle God's Word because you are thorough and you strive for clarity in all things.
You are a man who lives with courage. I am challenged by the way you fear God more than you fear man, even when the decisions that you make aren't always the most popular. You live to honor your King.
You are a man who lives with passion. I have often told you how I love your passion for others to hear the true Gospel. You desire for people to experience true joy only found in Jesus.

We need more men like you, Craig. Because God has providentially brought you into my life, I believe I am more of a man of "Integrity" by the example that you've set. I love you and will always value our friendship. Thank you for your partnership in the Gospel.

Ben Tugwell

From Marcus Glover

Craig,

As I think back on my time in college, I am tremendously grateful for your friendship and your leadership. Thank you for all the time and energy you invested in my life. Those years at ECU you were so formative in my spiritual growth, and example of humility, faithfulness, and commitment to increasing Christ's renown really ministered to me and taught me a lot about what it means to live as godly man. The Lord used you greatly in my life during my years as a university student, and I am so very thankful for you.

As much as I have been encouraged and instructed by your leadership, I know that this is true for generations of students like me. And so I want to thank you for your personal investment in my life, and also for your investment in the lives of so many other students. It's very important work, and I am confident that the Lord will reward you richly. Keep up the good fight, brother! I love you, and I am thankful for your partnership in the Gospel!

Grace and peace,
Marcus Glover

From Mark Melton

Craig,

I am so excited I get to express you just how much I appreciate you and what an amazing impact knowing you has had on me. Two things before I get started however: 1. I know I have told you this before but you have an amazing family and a wife that loves you dearly. 2. I know that you would be the first to say that what you have seen done in your life and in the lives of others through sharing the Gospel with them is all because of God and your just the vessel God is using. While I agree, I do believe it is good to hear from time to time just how great of a friend and brother in Christ you are. So with that said I would like to share some things with you.

First off, it truly is an honor to call you a friend. From the very first day I met you, in your idolatry gospel class, you have challenged the way I think about scripture. Your pursuit of God’s word and making it known to others is amazing man. It was through you that it September of 2010, God revealed His glorious gospel to me. That meeting was so overwhelming that my head was literally tingling all day. I couldn't put down Gods word because for the first time I realized that God wasn’t some weak god begging me to see Him. The same seriousness and attention to detail you shared with me that day I see in you every time we meet. Its one of the things I admire most about you. Just the other day I was talking with a member from Integrity about how you had impacted his life and he said: “I love Craig because he isn’t a man that builds fluffy relationships.” I couldn’t agree more, you really invest in people and want to see their lives changed in every avenue by the gospel. You're the type of guy that I know I could pick up the phone right now, call you, and we would meet this week. Then, when we did met you would keep it real with me and not sugar coat things because you really care about me. Just like the time I wanted to rush and get married instead of waiting to work through things with my Miranda. We already had the date and invitations in the mail but you were honest and caring enough to tell me to wait and we did. I cant thank you enough for that. Our time together has helped shape me as a man and a husband. Although I know it is always evident, I consider you and your family apart of my family. I look forward to our friendship growing even more in the years to come. I love you man and congratulations on 11 amazing years of being married to wonderful women!


Your Brother in Christ,
Mark Melton

From Aaron Glover

Craig was one of the first people I met at Integrity. I started attending campus crusade after a referral from him. Campus crusade really helped me in my walk as a new believer. I met some very solid guys through that ministry and planted some much needed roots along the way. I met with Craig a couple times in regard to a reference for a summer project. Craig was one of the biggest influences in that process in that he mentored me in raising support (something I had never done before and was very nervous about). Craig encouraged me a lot and helped me to trust the Lord by reminding me of God's sovereignty and His ability to provide for those who are living toward His will. Craig also spoke some truth into my life about pursuing a wife and important things to aim for when and if that time comes. Craig is a dear friend and fellow brother in Christ. I am so glad that he was placed on my life's path. In the far future as I look back on all those who influenced my walk early on I hope that he will come to mind. Thanks for everything Craig and Kim!

Much love,
Aaron Glover

From Amy Clark

Craig,

I remember being a little Freshman on the big ole' campus of ECU, and being completely overwhelmed. I didn't know where anything was, and I had to move in a week earlier than everyone else courtesy of marching band. My first memories of college are of me sitting in my dorm room by myself, re-organizing my textbooks while watching the Disney channel because I wanted no part of what the people in the band were doing in their spare time. I cried when my parent's left me. I had felt so strongly pulled to ECU and hadn't really known why - I prayed that the Lord would use my time in college to challenge me in my faith and grow me closer to Him, and I was desperate for a group of believers to become a part of. I was so excited the first week the college ministries were meeting on campus - I went to a different organization every day of the week to check them out. I wanted a ministry that was centered around the Gospel - that had a passion for reaching students with the truth and love of Jesus and was focused on sending students who had a relationship with Jesus out to reach other students. I wanted more than a Christian clique. And that is what I found in CRU.

I vividly remember you getting up on stage at the first meeting to speak about the mission of CRU and sharing the Gospel clearly with the students at the meeting. When you talked about going to Beach Bash that weekend, I knew I had to go. After that weekend, I quickly met upperclassmen who took me under their wing, joined the Praise Band, joined a bible study, started being discipled by Jessica Burdette, and (unknowingly at the time) met my future husband. I was growing in my knowledge of scripture and my evangelism skills were sharpening through this ministry. I had multiple spiritual conversations with my roommate and other people in my dorm, and knew that the Lord was using me on this campus. When Betsy Westbrook dragged me to a meeting with missionaries from Lebanon, I knew I had to go. My first memory of talking to you personally was going up to you after the Lebanon meeting, shaking your hand, and telling you my name was Amy Coffin and I didn't know how I would get there but I wanted to be on the team that went to Lebanon that summer. You met me a few days later to hear my testimony and walk me through the application process, and I think we were all surprised but excited when I was accepted on to the team. That trip changed my life, and I learned to trust the Lord in more intimate ways than I ever had. I came back and was able to lead multiple bible studies and loved being used to reach students on our campus. The Lord used you and CRU to forever change my outlook on my life - thank you for leading this ministry and for reaching and challenging ECU's students with the Gospel.

Amy Clark

From Lee Clark

Craig,

You have been a huge influence in my life and of who I am today. From the first time I met you at the bottom of the hill bash God used you to change my life in a big way. You were the one who challenged me to look at my faith and see what it was that I believed. If it wasn't for God putting you in my life to share the Gospel with me I would probably still be an unorganized lost sinner, who thinks that he is a believer. You have helped to shape me and show me what it means to live out my faith. Because of how you invested in my life I now see how ministry is more than just an event or a specific group, but it is my life. I can confidently meet with men who are twice my age and explain to them the gospel of Christ in a loving way. I know that I stressed you out at times, but know that your time with me was not in vain. I will never forget what you have done for me, you showed me who Christ is!

Thank you Craig, for everything.
Lee Clark

From Danny Stiling

Dear Craig,

I was looking back on my time with you at ECU, which is something I think about often. Much of the things we learned and experienced, whether on Summer Project, dining hall, in bible study, or at Boulevard Bagel stays with me to this day. Though we disagreed on some things, you were always there with good intentions and Godly advice.

Thank you for this, and so many other things.
Danny Stiling

From Sara Graves

Craig,

What a privilege and a blessing it has been to be in your life and for you to invest in mine.

I truly want to say thank you.

Thank you for caring enough to meet with me and ask all the hard questions. Thank you for challenging me to do more than I ever thought I was capable. Thank you for allowing me lead along side you in the ministry of Cru. Thank you for challenging me to lead a Bible study and invest in girls. Thank you for showing me, though your life, what a personal ministry looks like and pushing me to have one of my own. Thank you, most importantly for helping me realize I was broken, and a lost sinner that really did not have it all together.

Sometimes I still think about the time I asked you to meet with me because I could not quite get my “testimony” right. Thank you for making time for me during my college career. Hebrews 10: 24- 25 says, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works. Not neglecting to meet together, as it is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” I really like this verse. You were the first person to ever challenge me. I know I probably was not thankful then but I cannot thank you enough now. Thank you for “stirring me up” sometimes to the point of tears. Thank you for meeting with me and encouraging me to live more as Christ would.

Thank you for showing me what a godly man looks and acts like. Thank you for showing me how a godly man is to treat his wife and kids. I have really watched you and your family over years. I have been able to see a glimpse of what a Christ centered family looks like. It is really encouraging to see something beautiful like that and something I was not familiar with as a child and still learning about. It is very encouraging to me.

So, again, thank you for impacting the lives of many, many college students. Thank you for investing in my soul. You always talk about leaving a legacy and yours will be impacting ECU for years to come.

Thank you, Craig!


-Sara Graves

From Danielle Cassidy

Craig,

For the past year you have had a huge influence on my life as I have been coming closer to Christ through CRU. You have showed me Christ’s love and you have been someone I look up to whether it’s in CRU events or babysitting your wonderful kids. This past year you have helped me see God and the life of a believer more clearly. My first CRU bible study you completely intimidated me and I was a little nervous, haha. But I knew I was supposed to be in there and God put you as my leader for a reason. After the first month of studies you helped me truly see just how wonderful the Gospel is and why I actually need a Savior. You were straight forward with me and challenged me to think deeply about my life. Through your passion in what you do and the time you give us, I have grown closer to our God and truly know that I want to live my life for Him. Something you said that will always stick in my head is “God cares how we drink orange juice.” We were talking about 1 Corinthins 10:31 and how everything we do should be to give God glory. I try to remember this every day because of how passionate and serious you were about it. This statement, and many others, has had a daily impact on my walk with Christ. Thank you for all you do for me and all the other students at ECU! You are a wonderful Godly leader who has changed my heart forever. Thank you for showing me the Gospel every day and making a planted seed grow in my heart for the Lord!

Happy Anniversary!

Love, Danielle Cassidy c/o 2014

From Patrick Cunningham

Craig,

You are one of the more genuine people I've ever met. I truly believe when you say that you're praying for me, that you really are. Or that if I need any help in fund raising or questions about support raising, that you really do care for me enough to take the time to talk through and answer questions for me.

Your devotion to Scripture is a huge encouragement for me, and causes me to want to know God's Word in a deeper way. The way you love and parent your children is an awesome example of what it means to be a gospel centered dad.

Thank you so much for your obedience to Christ in your life!

Patrick and Kate Cunningham

From Jessie Ewell

Craig,

I just wanted to write you and tell you how much I appreciate you and your work with CRU. I am so thankful that God brought you and your family into my life. God has used you to open up my eyes to many truths and to be able to explain those truths to others.

College was a time of much growth for me. And CRU and your work with CRU played a huge part of that growth. When I think back on college, I don’t think about my classes, past tests, or even classmates. I remember CRU… the staff, the leadership team, the friends, and most importantly the sound theology I was taught.

It was your hard work and the sacrifices’ you have made and are making as staff, which made those memories happen. Thank you!

I am also thankful that ECU has you on campus. I know God is using you in the lives of the lost on campus and in Greenville. And this truly makes me happy!

I pray that God will continue to use you and your family in amazing ways. That He will guide your foot steps and give you wisdom and strength as you work hard to tell and show others the Gospel!

Again, thank you for your guidance in my life!

-Jessie Ewell ( class of 2008)

From Geoff Volker

Craig,

You are my dear friend and my encourager in ministry. You have faithfully encouraged me to make my life count for our King. You own life exhibited your own faithfulness to our Lord. Our Father in heaven in perfect wisdom brought us together in ministry and I have been the one who has greatly benefited from it. Thank you for being who you are. I do love you and look forward to being involved in each other's lives in the years to come.

--
Geoff Volker

From Keith Williams

Craig,

Thanks for your labor in love as the leader of our Life Group. I have been impressed with your thoughtful approach to Scripture and how you value even what some would see as a routine small group Bible study. You are a faithful servant, and I know God will do great things through your ministry now and in the future.

Keith Williams

From Brianna Black

Craig,

I have been so encouraged by your leadership since I first became involved in Cru freshman year. You have challenged me and so many others in our faith. I don't even know where to begin. You have taught me what an authentic, real Christian looks like. You have clearly presented the Gospel so many times and I know that the Lord used you to help point me to the truth. I will never forget all of your relationship talks. They have been so helpful and I feel I will be very prepared when I enter the dating world again. I will also never forget that night at Fall Conference when I told you how the Lord changed my heart that weekend. I remember you saying, "that's my story, Bri" and from then on it became so obvious why you decided to dedicate your life to ministering to the students at ECU. I have great respect for you because of this. I admire your love and dedication to Jesus and sharing His saving grace with others. You and your family will always be in my prayers and I consider it a privilege to have known y'all.

Because of and for Him,

Bri
Class of 2013
Eph. 6:19-20

From Seth Burdett

Craig,

I cannot begin to describe the impact that you, Brad, Hart, Robbie and your wives had on my life during my time with Campus Crusade. It has been exciting watching you grow in your role as a leader, speaker, and mentor. I have two favorite memories about you speaking at Cru. One was when the tech guys told you that your fly was down through the monitors, and the other was when you quoted the Louie Giglio Indescribable video word for word! It is amazing when thinking about those times, to hear Jamie Peckous, and others talk about you getting up and speaking at Integrity. They describe you as confident, and challenging. It is exciting to hear that God is continuing to mold you, and you are improving more and more!

I remember when you first came on staff with ECU. You were SO challenging! We used to joke that Brad is all grace, and you were all truth. Some conversations were so convicting that it was like you were slapping me in the face with the Bible! (In a good way) One situation in particular was at a Beach Bash. I was spending time with my friends, and you challenged me to leave my comfort zone and go talk to a freshman. My sin nature had me thinking “dude….I just want to spend time with my friends and have fun.” However, there was no argument, I was there to meet new people and make them feel comfortable, not “just chill.” I appreciate how direct you have been in calling a sin a sin, and encouraging people to seek after Christ.

I know you did not directly disciple me, however, I was friends with some of the guys that you provided discipleship and I remember them saying, “Craig is tough,” or “he told me I should ……” (all kinds of stuff) but one thing I noticed was that if they did what you asked, they were never sorry, and their faith was obviously strengthened. One thing that I love about you is that you are not only quick to challenge others, but you have actually done the things you asked people to do. (Moving on campus, Going on STINT, etc) You lead by example, and never beat around the bush, and I love that! I feel like this is very rare, but is also very effective.

As for your family, it has been an encouragement to see the type of husband and father that you are. You lead your family well, and any time that you speak of your wife or kids, it is in a positive way. I feel like you are a good role model for your kids, and a good example of a Godly man for Caleb to aspire to, and for Lydia to seek in a husband. Definitely keep up the Good Work, continue seeking Christ, and have a very Happy Anniversary!

Seth Burdette
(Class of 2008)

From Lex Turner

Craig,

I wanted to write this to you to express my joy in having you as a friend and brother in Christ. It is often difficult for me to develop deep friendships, due to my introversion and affinity for being alone. However, I have greatly enjoyed getting to know you over the last few months and I feel a real sense of camaraderie and brotherhood with you. In fact, the development of our friendship came at a time when I was feeling a little out of sorts about myself. I feel God has used our friendship to allow me to examine my soul and grow. It has been very encouraging to meet and talk with you about all kinds of subjects, including Ron Paul, politics, hunting, prepping and, most importantly, God. It is nice to have a kindred spirit to talk with. You have also helped to make my transition to Integrity so enjoyable. While you and your wonderful family may soon relocate, please know that you have a friend for life and that I will pray for you and support you in any way possible. I look forward to the growth of our friendship.

Love you, bro!

Lex

From Chris Maw

Craig, through your constant pursuit of me, the power of the Gospel has forever changed my life. You saw clearly that my life before Christ, was empty and also that I was hungry. Because of God's Spirit in you, you were able to tell the difference and you foreseen the joy and saving faith that was going to be given to me. Craig, I cannot thank the Lord enough for his work through you, and I have only described my experience. From walking with me door to door, sitting me down at Panera, working through scripture in the Webster group, to making sure the Gospel was foremost in my life and everything I did there-on was because of the Gospel. You rock, dude, and I cannot wait to see what happens after Seminary.

-Christopher Maw

From Joey Snead

Although he might not agree, I think Craig and I are more alike than we are different. I would say because of that, our relationship has evolved slowly since meeting about one year ago. As we have gotten to know each other better, through various meetings and life group at Integrity church, the more I have valued his insight into things that are going on in my family and I's life. One thing missing in people, including myself, is the ability to listen. This is not the case with Craig, and upon listening, he offers up some ideas and perspectives, biblically based, that have been very helpful. He has now become a very important person in my life, and for that, I am truly thankful to God.

From Auston Keel

Dear Craig,

You’re awesome, Craig…just to say the least. You never hold back or water down any thought you wish to share with others…you “tell it how it is.” I would like to sincerely thank you for your momentous time and support that you have given to me in this short time of knowing you. You had no prior obligation or allotment of time in which you had to give me, but you took it to your own to meet, discuss, and challenge me on a weekly basis. You have inspired me greatly with your impenetrable walk with the Lord and how it encompasses the sheer essence of the life of a true believer. You’ve both challenged and supported my own walk with Christ to help me maintain and build a maturity as a believer. The skills and knowledge you’ve given me will remain invaluable until the day that I perish. I truly believe that you and your personal ministry, as well as your family, will go in vastness and save the hearts of many who don’t know Christ.

Your skill in counseling, leading, and teaching exceeds the ability of many, and truly reflects your passion for Christ. I would, again, like to thank you dearly for being the man that you are. I feel as though I can consult you about anything at any time and still receive the unconditional support and knowledge that you always expend with others. I hope that our friendship continues to be as it is now, as well as remaining in contact regardless of life events.

It is my utmost sincerity when I say that I wish you well and much success in your ministry as you continue to build and expand to reach the lives of others. God bless!

-William Auston Keel

From Chandler Bryant

Craig,

Coming to ECU as a freshmen I thought I had it all together. I thought I knew what it meant to be a Christian. I thought it was all about rules. Not having sex, not drinking, not smoking, going to church, reading my bible some, praying every once in a while. I thought that this is what made me a Christian. As I got more involved with CRU and starting going to bible study and starting hanging out with Nate, Lee, Stephen, and Matt. I noticed something in those guys that was different than me. They weren't living out a bunch of rules to be a "christian," but they were living their lives for Jesus because they really understood what he did on the cross for them. That got me thinking my freshmen year and I realized that I wasn't a believer. I was living for myself and my desires. I don't know the exact time or day but I do know that sometime second semester of my freshmen year was when I truly had the heart change. John 3:3 says, "Jesus answered him truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." I remember reading this verse over and over and it finally clicked for me. My life changed my freshmen year because my desires were not what they used to be. God used CRU as a tool to bring me to him.

I know that me and you never got extremely close and had a lot of one on one time. But what I do know is that you met with Nate, Lee, and Stephen consistently while they were here at ECU. Those guys poured into me and taught me a lot of what you taught them. But I think the most important thing that I learned from you Craig, is how important the gospel is in our everyday lives. Constantly reminding ourselves of the gospel and living it out. To remember how much I need Jesus in my life because I'm so sinful everday and I can't do anything without him. You also taught me how important scripture is, to dig into the word and see what it says. So many people take scripture out of context and you have shown me how to look at it for what it truly says. You taught me how the word is so important and how I need to be in it everday because I need it. I need it to fight sin, I need it because I can learn to be more like Christ from reading and studying it. You taught me to ask, "what does that mean?" Especially when it comes to churchy words. You want everybody to truly understand what they are talking about and that is for sure one thing you have taught me. You also taught me it's not about numbers, yes having a lot of people is always good, but seeing people truly understand the gospel and learning the vision is more important.

Craig the more I think about it, you have taught me a lot through my four years in college. Like I said, I know we never got extremely close but I'm very privileged to have been part of this ministry and to learn from you. Thank you for putting in a lot of time to serving CRU.

Chandler Bryant,
Class of 2012

From Jerry Lowry

Craig,

If I was going to rob a casino, I would definitely have you on my team. You have such an eye and mind for detail that it would probably go off without a hitch. You would be the Brad Pitt to my George Clooney. You would be the guy that counts how many times the security guards walk past the vault, and figure out the best way in to get to the good stuff. Meanwhile, I would be distracted by sparkly things and losing my shirt playing craps (mostly because I don't have the first clue how to play craps). Thankfully enough though, I am not planning on robbing anything, and you use your powers of detailed observation for good. In other words, I think that you have the Spiritual Gift of Discernment and you have used that gift to pursue me as a friend, and to lovingly call me out when needed. You have also used that to encourage me in ways that I never have before. As a husband and a father, and to be quite frank, as a grown-up Christian man, you have led me to an understanding of what Truth is, what Love is, what Friendship is, what Openness and Honesty is. This is the part where I could/should/would thank you, but weighing that natural response against the gravity of both of our pending moves here soon- "thank you" just doesn't seem to cut it.

A simple gesture of gratitude seems feckless and I cannot underscore enough how much you being in my life has meant. Strangely enough, in this context, one would suspect that I would heap compliments upon compliments on you, in essence making you my hero: the one who rescued me from screwing up my family, neglecting my wife, and allowing myself to forever live with the silly idea that I had God figured out. But that is the beauty of you and what you have taught me about maturity and friendship.You helped me know that it isn't about you (or me, or anyone else). You cared enough to talk me down off a wall when I wanted to move shortly after I got here because pride let me grow frustrated with my job. You threatened (loudly I might add) to kick my ass in the middle of a Jersey Mike's because of the way I was withholding myself from Claire and everyone else. Hands down, though, the greatest lesson you taught me was that I should NOT want to be like you. I should live to honor and emulate Christ. In all things I should seek to honor Him. In everything I do, in every relationship I have, in every beat of my heart- you helped teach me it was Christ that makes it worth it and it is Christ that gets the glory.

The Ocean's 11 reference above seems silly, but it is more of a metaphor than it is my attempt to avoid at all costs discussing matters of emotional vulnerability. I am the casino, and yes, you are still the Brad Pitt in the story here. The fact is, you did take the time to figure me out, to confront me, and to get me to open the vault that was my heart. It is no longer the well-guarded fortress that I wanted it to be to keep people out. Now I can share it with the ones that I love and that love me. Now I can be myself and not worry about wearing masks and using misdirection to protect my prideful and sin-filled ego. I can be who God made me to be, and that is a great feeling. You have been a great example to me, Craig, and as inadequate as it is or may sound:

Thank You.

Your Friend,

Jerry

From Ben Sparrow

Dear Craig,

I hope that you and your family are doing very well.

Thank you for compassionately sharing wisdom with me while I was coming through school and a member of the body at Integrity. God used you in big ways in my life during times when we got together to work through various issues.

I appreciate not only your wise words, but also that you were so willing to spend time talking with me. Thanks for this kind of compassion.

Many times, I still remember various thoughts that you have shared with me and they make a positive difference in my everyday life One thing that has stuck with me is when you described how your roles as husband and father are rich opportunities for ministry. Another is when, seeing that I was acting a bit like Martha in the bible, you encouraged me to sit at the feet of the Lord Jesus, spending time in devotion.

Be encouraged that God has worked through you in my life, and I am sure in the lives of many others.

Happy Anniversary man!

In Christ,

Ben Sparrow

From Brittany Stiling

Craig,

It is amazing to me to see the work God has done through the hands of your family. Through my 2 years with Crusade in college you helped guide several students, including my husband, into a stronger foundation in Christ. You are and have been a vital part of the ministry on campus at East Carolina. Thank you for your encouragement and love for students, it is well known where it is stemmed from. Press on towards the goal!


In Christ,

Brittany Stiling

From Claire Lowry

Craig,

Happy Anniversary! I just wanted to write and share with you how God has used you in my life. When we came to Integrity, I had no idea how to read through Scripture and apply it to my life. I had no foundation and was a reed in the wind. You have taught me how to find and put the pieces of the puzzle together when it comes to Scripture. You have taught me so much about the holiness and Sovereignty of God. The study that you did on Idolatry a few summers back was a huge turning point in my life and God used that to dramatically change how I function in my marriage, with my children and in countless other relationships. You have always been lovingly direct and gracious toward me. I remember one time in particular where I was sitting in your garage and trying to record my testimony and I started to bawl. You knelt down in front of me and gently talked me through whatever issue was going on. I have no idea what was even said now but that gesture sticks out vividly in my mind to this day and probably always will. It meant a lot to me. I'm thankful that you have cared enough about me and my family to have hard conversations. I'm thankful for the times you stayed on the phone for hours to talk through questions I had. You are truly a gifted teacher, natural speaker, an amazing husband, father and friend. I'm thankful for you in many ways and think of you as my big brother. I'm excited to see how God will use you in this new season of life and I can't wait to hear about it all. I will miss you guys more than you know!

Sincerely,

Claire

From Lindsey Murphy

Craig,

You have been a great influence on my life and you probably don’t even realize it. Since I became a believer, you have really challenged me through all of your talks to develop my own personal ministry (which is harder than I expected) and to continually grow in my relationship with the Lord. You have allowed me to become a part of CRU’s leadership team which is a leadership position that I have never experienced. It is challenging and rewarding but I have been able to learn so much about myself through being a part of this team. The biggest thing that I have learned from you is how a “dating” relationship should look like biblically. I had never been taught that there are only two types of relationships in the bible, and a dating relationship is not one of them. Both of the “Sex, Dating, and Marriage” talks that I attended really opened my eyes as to how I should approach dating biblically and not as the world approaches it. Thanks for being such a great example for me and for continually sharing the Gospel with me. Also, thanks for having that talk with me about summer project. I can already tell that going to Chicago with the rest of ECU’s CRU has been one of the best decisions I’ve made all thanks to you.

Lindsey Murphy
Class of 2014

From Laura Sosa

Dear Craig,

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.” – 1 Peter 1:3-5

Praise God for how He has rescued us from our sins, bringing us from death to life, blind to seeing, perishing to a glorious inheritance with the Father through Jesus Christ His Son!

I give thanks to God for you, Craig, for your faithfulness over these last seven years in serving the Lord on the campus of ECU. I can’t tell you how many testimonies I have heard from believers I meet that were saved during their college years. As you know, this is such an impactful time in a person’s life and the Lord has strategically placed people like you to proclaim the good news of the gospel to a very lost, dead, confused generation on the college campus.

I was one of these lost students. But by God’s mercy and providence, He brought the Word to me through a Crusade Bible Study my freshman year… which eventually led to my salvation. Praise God for how He was able to use this ministry in which you labor to save a wretch like me, and many others at ECU.

The impact was great as you know, and I also desired to devote myself to this similar work. But as we soon found the Lord had different plans for me, but He is so good. It’s amazing to think that those Crusade days of “equipping” me to share the gospel has now led to opportunities as a married person to have international students live in our home from the Middle East, sharing the gospel with them and studying Arabic-English Bibles together. Praise God for how the seeds that were planted in me years ago are still being sown to students all over the world – without even leaving the U.S.! We have each been given unique opportunities for ministry and evangelism, and it is such a joy to labor alongside you still.

There are many things I remember about you Craig. The Lord has gifted you in so many ways. Here’s a few that came to mind:

1. Boldness. I love how you always had a boldness to declare what is true in God’s Word. You were not afraid to talk about an “unpopular message” to a tough crowd about our sin, and the judgment we deserved. You were not afraid to challenge people very directly and confront others who did not know the truth or who were in sin. I pray the Lord would continue to give you this boldness and courage as you share with others.
2. Discipleship. It doesn’t stop with sharing the gospel. Craig is about discipling! You want others to learn what it means to follow Jesus and devote yourself to helping them know Christ through studying His Word. Just reading through your recent newsletters, it is evident that you are bearing much fruit in this work. I pray the Lord would help you continue to give of yourself to show others what it really means to walk as Jesus did.
3. Evangelism. Similar to boldness, but your heart is there – to reach the lost. You have much compassion on those who do not know the truth, desperately wanting them to come to faith. I pray the Lord would refresh your own soul by causing your heart to meditate on the goodness of the gospel. I pray you would continue to proclaim the gospel clearly and that many more would be saved.
4. Friendship. Simply, you are a great friend. Your family showed so much love, generosity and commitment to me during my years at ECU. Countless times you listened, gave good counsel, showed compassion, pointed me to the truth, opened up your home and your lives to serve and care for me when I was in need. Continue to love, as Jesus loved. This brings much glory to God.

So, Craig (and Kim!), press on in the good work you are doing. The Lord is your strength and defender. Stand against the devil’s schemes. When you grow weary, remind yourself of God’s promises. Turn to His Word and prayer when it’s tempting to be discouraged.

My biggest hope and prayer for you would be that not only you would point students to the truth of the gospel, but that you would also point them to our need for the church. After our conversion, this is arguably the most important thing we need most. The Lord is so good to provide a way for us to continue growing in holiness and to keep us from wandering from the fold. The sheep need a shepherd, and the church is designed for the people of God to reflect His character. This is our calling, until the Lord calls us home. I pray that more solid churches would be raised up in Greenville, NC and that students would become life-long followers of Christ.

Now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

With all my love and prayers,

Laura (Wright) Sossa
Class of 2008

P.S. If you ever want to visit D.C. with your family, give us a call!

From Aaron Keener

Dear Craig,

I wanted to write you and thank you for how much you have had an impact on my life in the past two semesters. I am very thankful to God, that he has sovereignly placed me in your ministry at Cru. I have always admired your faithfulness to the scriptures, and your faithfulness in teaching them, for it was through this that God chose to draw me to himself, and for that I am exceedingly grateful. I thank God for giving me the privilege of being under your teaching. Thank you for consistently challenging me with scripture and with the gospel (both in your proclamation of it, and your exhortations to share it). Thank you as well for consistently challenging me to trust in Christ, to value him about all things and to fight sin. Thank you for your wisdom in helping me make those very important decisions this semester, and thank you for loving me enough to tell me what I needed to hear, even though I did not want to hear it at the time. Truly, you have been an example of someone who loves Christ and who loves people enough to preach the gospel, with boldness, no matter the offensiveness of it.
I wanted you to know that your labor has been profitable and that God has used you to impact me in numerous ways. You have been a godly example of a leader, husband, father and counselor to me. You have been a testimony of Christ’s transforming power for believers and you have been a great encouragement to me in a multitude of ways. I wanted to also encourage you to press on towards the goal (Phil. 3:12-16), your work has not gone unnoticed and it has not been in vain.
I am so very thankful for you and though you will be missed, I am very excited for you and your family. You all will remain in my prayers.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Aaron Keener

From Tiffany Wright

Dear Craig,

I first met you during the summer of 2006…almost 6 years ago! We were in Myrtle Beach, SC for Summer Project. Sadly, this was the last summer project that would be held in Myrtle Beach for ECU. That was almost 6 years ago! A lot has happened in the last 6 years, right? I am so thankful for that summer for many reasons.

One of the big reasons why I am so thankful for the summer of 2006 is because I had the opportunity to meet you and your lovely family! Since then my friendship with you, Kim, Caleb, & Lydia has grown tremendously. Over the past 6 years, we have cried, laughed, & most importantly smiled ;-). It’s like a movie! Haha. I have a lot of memories with you and your family and I want to take some time to talk about a few of them.

One of the first memories I have of you was during summer project. I remember it because I was very challenged by the topic of discussion. During our weekly meeting we all met to discuss “testimony training.” I was so challenged by this discussion and it caused me to take time to reflect on my life and how God had changed me. I had to work through my pride and it was that point when I discovered that I had truly become a believer during the fall semester that year (2005). You were discussing testimony training with the whole group, but little did you know that you challenged me personally that day!

Another memory that I have and will never forget is the day that I decided to go to Lebanon on STINT. I was in Black Mountain, NC at kick-off weekend when I made the decision to change my route from ECU to Lebanon. I know it is a sensitive topic. Haha. But, when I made my decision that day, I wanted to tell you & Kim first! I knew that y’all would be excited and encouraging, even though it was very hard for all of us. I remember feeling like you were being protective of me and asked me a lot of questions to be sure that God was in fact leading me to serve in such a hard, scary place. While I raised support, you offered wisdom, encouragement, and challenged me to be obedient in the process. Shockingly, in September 2008, I was getting on a plane heading to Lebanon. I honestly don’t know if I would have made it through the year without all the love, support, and prayers I had back in the states. I am so thankful that you & Kim made time to communicate with me during that year. And also for making sure Caleb & Lydia didn’t forget “Tiffy.”

After Lebanon, I was thankful to have a place to come back to in Greenville. You & Kim provided a place for me to stay during my transition back. I’m so thankful because if I would have had to stay at home, I would have gone insane. Haha. During that time, we had some great conversations, we watched crazy shows like “Dating in the Dark” and laughed our butts off, and we even had some struggles. I have always said that friends who have to work through difficult things end up being better friends after they worked through it.

There are so many memories that I have of you & your family. Babysitting your children, y’all coming to my graduation party, fall conferences, winter conferences, bible studies, weekly meetings, meetings with you & Brad, Caleb/Lydia’s birthday parties, leadership meetings, leadership retreats….the list goes on. Oh…..I cannot possibly forget the day me, you, & Kim jumped in the car to go see Candi Manning sing at her home church. WOW!!! What a funny adventure to see you dancing while driving down the road. That was the first time I saw that side of you! Haha. Most importantly, from all of these memories, I want you to know that your friendship means a lot to me and you have impacted my life in a big way! I have had the opportunity to learn so much from you and I’m sure I will learn a lot more.

Craig, I want to thank you for your love & commitment to the Lord. It is evident that you love God and want others to love & obey Him. You have challenged me, encouraged me, supported me, prayed for me, and have been a very special friend to me. I do not overlook the fact that you have sacrificially invested in my life. I cannot thank you enough. I have also had the opportunity to see you invest in other student’s lives. Thank you so much for your heart for ECU students. You have had a great ministry at ECU and have impacted so many lives because of your love for the Lord. Over the past 6 years, I have even had the opportunity to see you grow in your relationship with God. I am so grateful to know you and your family and to call you friends! Thank you so much for allowing me to be involved in your family’s lives--to learn & grow from how you lead your family, encourage your family, challenge your family, teach your children, and love your wife. Regardless of where life takes us, your family will be a family I will NEVER forget and will FOREVER cherish.

In Christ,
Tiffany “Tiffy” Wright
ECU May 2008

From Eddie Sanderlin

Dear Craig,

I wanted to write you this letter to thank you for all you have taught me over the years I have known you. This letter is truly too less of an expression for my gratitude for your obedience, sacrifice, and endurance in ministering to students like me at ECU. You have not only taught me by words, but also by the way you live what you teach with your family. The ripples of your ministry to me on this campus during the last few years will surely resonate throughout the rest of my life.

You have helped develop doctrine and theology with me that have transformed my life. You have shown me how to be a student of scripture and view it as all sufficient in my life. I must admit I did not view scripture as high as I should have when I first came here to Greenville. I have now learned the necessity of studying it to see sin decrease in my life and my love for Christ increase. This has permeated into how I make decisions, teach others, and develop as an active member in the Church.
I will tell you I came to college with no view of personal ministry. I thought college was a place where I would grow in Christ and where I would be fed scripture, not where I would sacrifice that others might learn and grow in Christ. Thank you for pushing and challenging me to see what Jesus says about having a personal ministry.

Thank you for always being willing to help me think through the though decisions and events in my life where I needed guidance. You are truly wonderful at taking the truth of scripture and applying it rightly to the lives of students, and more specifically, my life. I am profoundly blessed to have had you in my life and I know that I have already communicated that to you. I feel equipped by what you have taught me for the next year to come in Crusade and even on passed graduation. I look forward to reading your newsletters of all you are doing in Wake Forest and how Christ will use you in the life of others.

In Christ,
Eddie Sanderlin

From Will Calhoun

Craig,


Man, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to express how thankful I am for you. Over this past year you have challenged, inspired, and held me accountable. God has used you in my life in so many ways. One specific way being how you have been a spark of inspiration to study and ACCURATLY interpret His word. I’d like to thank you for all the prayers and guidance as well. I wish you and your family the best as you enter the next chapter of life, and I pray that you will go on to bless others lives as you have mine. I’m honored to call you my mentor and friend.

Best wishes,

Will Calhoun

From Michael Steward

Craig,

Thank you for being a good friend throughout the past few months. Thank you for loving Jesus and caring about me enough to tell me the truth, even (especially) when it’s hard to hear. Thank you for being so careful in how you handle Scripture. You have set a great example of what 2 Timothy 2:15 looks like and have challenged me to follow in your footsteps. Thank you for showing me what it looks like to be a godly man who loves his wife and leads his family and giving an example of that for young guys like me to follow. Thank you for being authentic and open in our conversations. Thank you for the time and energy that you have invested in our friendship throughout the past few months. I am so thankful to God that he placed you in my life when He did.

Michael Steward

From Grady Dwiggins

Craig,

I wanted to be a part of this book just to help everyone else in it encourage you through letting you know that your decision to give this season of your life to college ministry has had an impact on who I am today. It’s kind of funny writing this because as I was thinking about how you have encouraged me, challenged me, walked through some scripture with me, and talked about tons of different things with me over the past couple years, I realized, that after getting to know you for a couple weeks when we first met, I never thought of you as a “campus minister” or anything like that, my memories are just of a guy that loved Jesus and loved me enough to take time and be a part of my life. I will always consider you one of the best friends I have had in my time in Greenville. You have taught me a lot about the importance of Scripture, and how crucial really knowing what the Word says is to knowing who God is and what he is really like, and knowing myself and what I am really like. I really enjoyed being part of one of your bible studies, walking through Jonah with you, Nate, and Travis, and Studying the Word during our time in Life Group together. But in thinking about the ways I have been affected by having you as a friend I see the truth in that phrase “more is caught than taught.” For some reason I have always watched closely the people that I respect and look up to. I think I like to see how they live out what they say and how they react to different situations and it really helps me check myself and see sin in my life. You definitely aren’t Jesus, but I think you are a pretty good guy to look up to. I have learned more from you just by watching you live your life, and love your family, and have normal conversations, and interact with different types of people than I ever could just listening to you teach something. Ever since we thought we were going on staff, you and Kim have really been the only family we have interacted with on a consistent basis that is in the same boat we are getting into. Raising support, dealing with weird work hours, interacting with college students who have different personalities and stubborn beliefs, and raising kids at the same time! All these things are hard, and that’s the job we have chosen. I count it as a great blessing that Tiffany and I got to watch you guys do ministry on the campus while staying committed to your marriage and your kids. I am very thankful to have met you and spent the last few years as your friend.

Love you man,

Grady
Class of 2011ish

From Nate Downs

Dear Craig,

I can honestly say that you have had an astronomical influence on my life in many ways and words cannot express how much I cherish the times that we have shared together. I can say without a doubt if you hadn’t opened up to me and shared the Gospel along with many other passages I wouldn’t be the same person I am today.

I can remember back to our one-on-one meetings that we would have at local restaurants around Greenville. In all of those meetings you would challenge me to be more like Christ and to glorify Him more. I can remember specifically the meeting when you challenged me to go to summer project and then also to join the leadership team that fall. We were at Mazatlan on Greenville blvd, a Mexican restaurant, and I can remember being reluctant and a little unsure of myself as a possible leader. But all I needed was to be pushed and challenged a little bit, something that no one has really ever done until I met you. There was another time when you gave me advice on a job, my living situation and vehicle to buy. I remember very clear that I didn’t like your advice and I did what I wanted to do. Two years later I finally understood where you were coming from. God changed my heart a lot through your teaching and as you know I quit that job, sold my car and moved on campus.

I am grateful for your leadership in the ministry and your teaching of the word! Not only have you been an awesome example of a leader and teacher to me but also how to be a Man of the Bible. I have seen you interact with your family on numerous occasions both as a husband and a father and it is clear to me that I want to be just like you when I grow up! Thank you so much for being willing to give up your life and share the Gospel with so many people. I know that you have not only impacted my life but many others as well! I love you Bro!

Love, Nate Downs
C/O 2010

From Jake Sherron

Craig, you have a good wife for putting this together for you. You and Kim are great friends and have shown us both great care and direction in life.

You've had a massive impact on my life. In fact, I told Eddie Sanderlin that I'm not sure you realize the extent to which you've helped me. There are not many men I run too in my darkest hour; when I'm there, I know I can come to you for honest loving truth and encouragement in grace. In all honesty, your one of the few examples in my life of genuine courageous love for people. Your desire for people to be intimate with the one true God and to grow into Christ is evident from your life.

God has used you to point many lives to Jesus. In fact, Ben and I often tell each other that the young guys you disciple seem more solid. I think this is true because your honest and patient with them. You also put forth the effort to ground them theologically, something many don't do. For example, I had coffee with Aaron Keener the other day and was blown away at his level of wisdom, transparency and biblical knowledge. He's light years ahead of me when I was his age. I think a lot of that has to do with your influence. He shared with me that your influence has been tremendous. Aaron is just one example, there are many more.

Along time ago, I told you one thing that inspires me are men who stick to their convictions even when the consequences are not favorable for them. That type of courage is a trait that God gives to men, a trait I want in my own life. Your that guy Craig. I look up to you like a father in the faith. When the walls close in on you and the temptation to compromise is there, you don't, you stand firm. That's admirable.

So thank you Craig, thank you for being an example of realness. Thank you for teaching me what it means to be theologically precise. Thank you for being there when I've confessed dark sins. Thank you for encouraging me to pursue real intimacy with Mitzi. Thank you for the friendship. And most of all, thank you for pointing me to the grace and love that Jesus provides.

In Christ,
Jake Sherron

My love . . .

I can still remember the summer and fall of 2005 with vivid detail. It was a very exciting time for us as we were expecting our first child and could not wait to meet Caleb. It was also very sad as we had to say goodbye to our short lived dream of living in Saratov, Russia. As I look back at the timing of everything I am in awe of God's love and care for us each step of the way. We were filled with such mixed emotions as we battled fearing what the future held for us. I remember you asking the region if we could be placed at ECU due to the fact that we had our first baby on the way and family was nearby, because we knew the staff team AND they could help us transition into college ministry on a campus we already loved.

The region agreed and we were excited to be ministering to college students in pirate country. Caleb was born July 25, 2005 and you started working on campus in August. We spent the first night in our house on September 11. You were busy learning the ropes here and meeting with students & staff, preparing bible studies and talks. I was busy getting our home settled and enjoying the baby stage with Caleb.

Year after year passed by and our staff team got smaller and smaller. You and Brad have been carrying it the last 3 years and by God's grace it has thrived. Students are coming to know Christ, growing in their faith and making disciples on our campus. I have seen you grow so much over the last seven years. You have not only grown in your own intimacy with Christ but you have grown in the areas of teaching, true discipleship, counseling and leading people in our church.

I love how you lead our family and take the role of discipling me seriously. I have been challenged, stretched, encouraged and loved by you more than any other person in my life. Thank you for not neglecting us, your family, as you pour into so many other people in our church and on campus. I love you dearly and thank God often for giving you to me. Aside from salvation, you are the gift that I treasure most.

I hope that this book is an encouragement to your heart as you prepare to step into the next season of life. May you rejoice as you see God's glory displayed in the ministry you've had here in Greenville. I hope this serves as a reminder that ministry is hard at times but worth it in the end when you see God glorified. May you enjoy reading notes from your friends on the pages that follow . . . I love you.