I first met Susan Reed 10 years ago when a group of us from Broadway went to Virginia to surprise her at her ordination at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Richmond. She had just graduated from Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond and had recently been called to serve as our Minister to Youth at Broadway.

Susan and I hit it off right away, as did everyone at Broadway. The youth and the youth parents fell in love with her. I enjoyed working with Susan on the Youth Committee, spending weekends at Ichthus, helping with Disciple Now weekends, the Valentine Banquet, ski trips and many other activities.

I especially enjoyed watching Susan interact with my daughters, Brittany and Blair, as they became young adults. She mentored Brittany, as she became a minister herself, and did a beautiful job performing Blair’s wedding ceremony.

When Susan moved into the role of Associate Pastor of Spiritual Formation, I began working more closely with her on the Spiritual Formation Committee and now as Sunday School director. It has been amazing watching her grow as a minister and a person, as she takes on more responsibilities and helps our church grow spiritually.

Susan is wise beyond her years. Her caring spirit and the loving way she reaches out to others is an inspiration to all. I have often sought her counsel when going through tough times, and celebrated with her during the good times. She is my friend as well as my pastor.

We are so blessed as a church to have Susan Reed with us these past ten years. Let us all celebrate Susan and celebrate with Susan on this special occasion.