Branches Family,

I’m so excited to share an important and meaningful update in the life of our church.

After much prayer, intentional planning, and a meaningful season of vision, we are thrilled to announce the hiring of our new full-time Children’s Director, Kendall Saplis! This decision comes after an extensive and thoughtful search process led by an incredible search committee made up of staff, dedicated children’s ministry volunteers, and two of our elders. We conducted a national search, receiving resumes from several states, followed by phone screenings, church visits, and multiple interviews. Throughout every step, we sought the Lord’s guidance, and we are confident that Kendall is the right leader to step into this role in this season.

This is a big moment for all of us as the Branches community. It reflects what we believe deeply, that children are not just the future of God’s Kingdom, but a vital part of what God is doing right now in and through the local church.

Making the move to a full-time leader in our children’s ministry is a strategic and prayerful step forward as we continue to build strong, Christ-centered families and reach the next generation.

Kendall comes to us from already serving in a larger church ministry, where she is faithfully leading and managing teams of volunteers each week. She brings experience, energy, and a heart to see kids and families grow in their faith, and we’re so excited for you to meet her.

Kendall is also stepping into a ministry that already has a strong and beautiful foundation. And that foundation has been faithfully built by Amy Keeton and her incredible team of volunteers.

Amy has served for over 6 years as our part-time Children’s Director, pouring out her love, leadership, and care into our kids and families. While she was not able to step into a full-time role due to her other work responsibilities, her impact on Branches have been lasting and deeply meaningful. We thank Amy for her faithfulness that has shaped who we are. You have loved our children well, led with humility, and helped build something that will continue to grow for years to come. We are also so grateful for the way you’ve helped create such a smooth and healthy transition into this next season.

As we step forward, this is a church-wide movement, and there are many ways for you to be part of it.

We will be hosting focus groups with children and families in the coming weeks as a way to connect personally with Kendall, share ideas, and help shape the future of this ministry together. There will also be many opportunities to serve and volunteer alongside Kendall as she steps into this new role of leadership. This is a moment for all of us to step in, step up, and be part of what God is building.

Our heart is simple: to help hundreds of children know and love Jesus more.

We would love for you to be part of celebrating both Amy and Kendall with us.

On Sunday, June 7th, we will:

● Introduce Kendall Saplis to our church family

● Publicly honor and thank Amy for her years of faithful ministry

● Host a reception after both services in the welcome area

Come ready to celebrate, write a card or note of thanks to Amy, and take time to personally welcome Kendall as she begins this new chapter.

God is building His church, and this is one of those moments where we can clearly see His hand at work. This transition is not just about a new hire; it’s about continuing to build and invest in the next level of ministry to children and families, standing on the strong foundation that is in place.

I can’t wait to celebrate together.

With gratitude and expectation,

Pastor Shane