I had known about Butch for about a decade prior to interviewing him five years ago. Up to that point, we were acquaintances attending and serving in the same church. But that all changed in the winter of 2004 when I asked Butch to step in and help me lead through one of the most difficult staff challenges we had ever faced. What Butch brought was stability. Healing. Comfort. His leadership gift and relational style was exactly what we needed at Granger these past five years.

A few months ago, Butch began to talk to me about a dis-ease. No, not a disease like cancer...but a dis-ease, an unsettled feeling and wondering if God might have something else on the path for Butch. He has always had a heart for the business community (from which he came)--and he ultimately made the decision to re-enter the marketplace where he can have an impact at a closer level. But don't take my word for it--read what Butch said about this transition.

I'm happy and I'm sad. I truly like Butch, and I'll miss the daily interaction with him, working through the highs and lows of ministry. He is fun--and he is funny. He is incredibly smart, and always has great insight on just about every challenge. But Butch isn't going far. He's going to continue to serve in the church, and even lead on the church Board. And for that, I am grateful.