I know what you’re thinking. You see “big announcement” and you think I’m pregnant. Sorry to burst your bubble but that’s not the announcement.
I’ll get down to it for those of you that just want the scoop.
We’re moving.
It was more than two years ago that God began working in our hearts regarding our next assignment. To be perfectly honest, I wasn’t very open to God’s stirring in our hearts. I didn’t want a new assignment. I love my current assignment. So, it was with heels in the ground that I began having discussions with Jared and God about what might be ahead.
A Transition Was Happening
A transition was happening in both of our hearts toward the pastorate. I’ve said to Jared several times, “Could you have ever imagined all those years ago when we committed our lives to God that He would eventually lead us here?” I couldn’t. For the longest, the stirring seemed to be in Jared’s heart alone. It was small at first and then it became a burning passion in him–the call on his life to lead a church. As his wife, I knew I was called to serve alongside him. And for many months, I went along with the idea. And then something happened–a burning passion in me as well. I knew that we were called to lead a church. It was no longer something I was just following Jared to do. God had called me as well.
I’m not suggesting I’m called to sit behind the desk of the senior pastor but I am called to be Jared’s biggest cheerleader. I will be his sounding board, his prayer warrior and his help-mate. I’m pretty much that now but I want you to know, I’m 100% on board. We are called to the pastorate.
The Calls Started Coming
It wasn’t long after the burning passion happened in my heart that we began to receive phone calls from churches. I won’t go into all the details here but we have journeyed with several churches seeking God’s direction and leadership. There have been tears, frustration and an all-out begging for God to make His will clear.
It was on March 23, 2015, that God spoke almost audibly to us. We had unexplainable peace–a peace that has continued even to the point that I’m typing this post.
God was leading us to First Baptist Church, Round Rock, Texas.
Then on April 19, 2015, First Baptist, Round Rock voted Jared Allen as their next senior pastor.
There was a flood of emotions mixed with physical exhaustion and the Holy Spirit’s hand firmly on us.
Why It’s Bittersweet
It is always exciting to be square in the middle of God’s undeniable movement in your life. We are confident we are walking through the door God opened for us. However, our hearts ache for our family in Huntsville, Alabama. We moved to Huntsville when I was seven months pregnant with our first born. Willowbrook has become our family. They have rejoiced with us, hurt when we hurt and helped us raise our children. Jared and I have grown and matured more than we could have ever dreamed here. During our time in Huntsville, we have solidified the autonomy of our marriage and family. We have found our identity as ministers, leaders and people.
So, how do you leave a place with people so dear?
You leave when you get a new assignment.
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So, what will I do?
A few people have asked, “So, what will you do, Bobi Ann?” I currently serve on staff as the Women’s Minister at Willowbrook. I’ve never loved a position like I love this one. However, over the course of the past couple of years, God has opened up doors for me with speaking and writing that I never would have imagined. God birthed in me some new passions within women’s ministry that I plan on pursuing. Once I get everyone settled in Round Rock and through the summer, I have some big plans for this blog and future ministry opportunities. Simply put, I’m trusting God to open the doors He has for me.
I should also mention that I have two children and a husband who is a pastor!! What do you think I’m going to do?
Stay Tuned
Over the next few months, I will keep you posted on our journey. I’ll share with you our moving adventures and some of what God is doing in our lives. It is truly an honor to walk alongside you, to grow with you and to see God’s hand at work.
26 comments on “Our Big Announcement”
Round Rock is getting a Blessing!!!! Y’all truly will be missed! Grateful to know that Allow to minister through You! Thank you for obedience to follow His command!
Noooooooooooooo!!!!! But Congratulations! We are very sad about our loss but happy for you and the lives you will touch.
Mike, it is a crazy adventure but you certainly know about crazy adventures! We’ll miss you guys so much! Excited that Jared gets to come see y’all in Houston!
Thanks Toni. I will so miss serving alongside you. You are one precious woman of God!
Excited for your sweet family to start on this new adventure! You are much loved here in Huntsville and will be missed.
Thanks, Lena! I will definitely miss Willowbrook and the amazing women I do ministry with.
Looking forward to seeing how God allows you and your sweet family to minister in Texas! Your life continues to be an example of following God’s call. I’m so thankful to know you and learn from you!
Elise, definitely keep in touch! I want to hear about what’s going on with you. You never know when our paths will cross again.
Love y’all so much, but I am very excited to see God move in your life! You will be missed and your impact at Willowbrook will remain.
Love you, BED! I, too, will miss our sweet family at Willowbrook.
Wow! Directly hearing from God is a game changer!And im so excited for all the lives your going to help change! You both have been chosen for this journey and I cant wait to hear how God blesses you as you bless all who are so lucky to have you join their church.Looking forward to the Blogs!
You’re exactly right–hearing from God is a game-changer! We are excited but will so miss our friends in Huntsville!
I understand all too well! God called me to move to Bradenton, FL to disciple women! I had no job, knew one person here & never been here before. It has been a joy…I love it very much here! Enjoy your journey!!
You totally understand, Andrea! God’s journey is so fun and so scary all at the same time!
You are a precious couple and family….thanks to Jarod and you, Bobi Ann , for all you both have done in the lives of my children that are not children anymore and almost all grown up! I know you touched their lives in ways you may never know…. One way I will never forget is your kindness and understanding Bobi Ann, when my son had a problem being away from home during camp week …. You allowed me to come and join y’all and made me feel so welcome and gave my son that peace that he needed so he could stay and be with his friends and grow in Christ! Thanks again !!
I wish God’s richest blessings on your lives and thankful God placed you in our lives for a season!
Karla,
I sure love your kiddos and enjoyed those years of camping and TNT so much. I loved getting to hang out with you too. You’re one amazing lady! We’ll certainly miss you guys.
You and Jared have journeyed with our family through many trials and triumphs. You have been God’s instruments and examples of His love at work at Willowbrook. The tears are flowing with sadness of missing you already and the joy for your new assignment. I can only imagine how happy you must be going home to Texas. Your whole family will be missed by our whole family.
Dee, it has been quite a road we’ve traveled together. We love your kids and have been honored to walk beside your whole family.
Bobbi Ann you are going to be so missed — but I am so glad that you and Jared will have the opportunity to follow God’s leading thru-out your lives and touch the lives of so many more people. Both of you will be in my prayers as you move and settle in.
God Bless you
Sandy, it has been such a treat to do ministry alongside you. You are a gifted teacher of the Word. We cherish each prayer. Miss you.
Dorinda and I are so happy for you and your family. It’s going to be an amazing time in your lives. It won’t be easy, but it will be rewarding.
You have a gift in writing. I strongly encourage you to pursue that area.
We’re praying for your transition to be led by God and filled with Holy Spirit tingling moments! We love ya’ll.
Perry, thanks for the encouragement. We definitely know that we are not being called to the easy thing but it is certainly easier than disobedience!
I am so happy and excited for you and your family Barbi Ann!! Love you!!
Necole, I love watching your kids getting so big. I remember when your girl was younger than mine! I miss you girl. Love you.
Congratulations! This is so exciting for y’all. Praying God’s greatest blessings for y’all as you step out in faith and obedience!
Denise, thanks for the encouragement. This is quite the adventure we’re on!!