Annual Meeting Recap 5.19.26

We recently gathered for our annual business meeting, where we reflected on the 2025–2026 ministry year, approved the 2026–2027 budget, and re-elected Harrison Daniels as an elder. Thank you for taking the time to participate—we are grateful foryour engagement and support.

During the meeting, Pastor Clark shared that he plans to retire as our Lead Pastor in the summer of 2027. He and Cynthia have been prayerfully considering this decision for some time and believe the timing is right. Over the past several years, Pastor Clark has also been in ongoing conversation with the elder board regarding his eventual retirement. In response, the elders have been praying, fasting, and seeking God’s direction for the next season of leadership at Valley Brook.

This process led us to begin a thoughtful and intentional succession journey. We have consulted with pastors who have walked through similar transitions, studied pastoral succession, and partnered with the consulting firm N.L. Moore. Throughout this process, we have sought to remain open to the Lord’s leading, and together we believe He has clearly guided us.

At the meeting, we shared our conviction that God has provided our next Lead Pastor in Pastor Brian. Over the past year, the elders have prayerfully considered him for this role. In addition to benefiting from his leadership over the past two years, we have observed his character, his love for Christ, and his commitment to the church. During this time, we also carefully examined his theology and recommended him for ordination, which he completed following a rigorous evaluation by a council of pastors. As part of our succession planning, N.L. Moore conducted an independent assessment
of both Pastor Clark and Pastor Brian. After a thorough review, they affirmed that Pastor Brian would be a strong and fitting successor.

While the elders wholeheartedly support Pastor Brian as the next Lead Pastor, we also recognize the importance of congregational affirmation. In accordance with our church constitution, the selection of a Lead Pastor requires a 75% affirmative vote of the members present at a specially announced meeting.

We are therefore announcing a congregational meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM to vote on Pastor Brian as the next Lead Pastor of Valley Brook.

The June 16 congregational meeting will be available both in person and virtually. Please note that while all are welcome to attend these gatherings, only members ofValley Brook are eligible to vote. If you are unsure of your membership status, please contact the church office at [email protected].

Over the next year, Pastor Clark will continue as our Lead Pastor until he retires and he will work with Pastor Brian on the transition of leadership for him to become our Lead Pastor.

Thank you for your continued involvement in the life and ministry of Valley Brook. We are grateful to walk through this important season together.

 
Due to some technical difficulties, we were unable to recover the recording from our first Q&A. We do have the transcript and have made it available for you to read through, if you'd like. Click here to access.
 
 
 
 
 

Annual Meeting

Meeting Details:
Date: Tuesday, May 19
Time: 6:30-9:00pm 
Location: Valley Brook Community Church
*Please note, this meeting took place both in-person and online. 
 


Our Annual Meeting is a time to remember God’s faithfulness over the past year and prayerfully plan for the upcoming year. From 6:30-7:00pm we will enjoy light refreshments together, worship at 6:45, followed by the meeting promptly beginning at 7:00pm.

Whether you're a Valley Brook member or an attender you're invited to attend and participate in the meeting, with one exception, only members may make motions and cast votes. If you are not certain if you are a member send us an email at [email protected].

During this meeting we'll:

  • Review and celebrate how we have fulfilled God’s vision for Valley Brook
  • The re-election of Harrison Daniels to the Elder Board.
  • The proposed operating budget for the 6/1/26-5/31/27 fiscal year.
  • Amend our constitution with doctrinal distinctive statements on marriage and humanity. 

Harrison Daniels

 

Click here to read Harrison's bio.

 

Meeting Materials