HOUSTON — The senior pastor of Houston's Second Baptist Church, Dr. Ed Young, has announced his retirement.
In a letter, Young said his son, Dr. Ben Young, will take over as senior pastor. He will continue to be a part of the church.
"Lisa and I are stepping up, not down. While I am moving from the pulpit to the pew, we are committed to our Second Family," Ed Young said in the letter.
Dr. Ed Young was a pastor in South Carolina before moving to Houston, where he was a pastor at Second Baptist Church for over 40 years.
"Though I am the chief of sinners, God has graciously allowed me to live out that calling with you. Serving you has been the great privilege of my life. You are family to Lisa and me," he said.
Read the full letter below:
Dear Second Family,
Memorial Day is when our nation and church family honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Memorial Day often coincides with the last day of school and unofficially signifies the start of summer. In our culture, the holiday weekend can eclipse the significance of the occasion. Yet, for those who have lost loved ones in the line of duty, the impact of their tremendous sacrifice resonates throughout generations. Join me in praying for and remembering all who have died protecting our great country.
This is a significant moment in the life of our church as we transition leadership. I am thrilled with whom God has called to be our new senior pastor, Dr. Ben Young. I am confident you will be, too. I pray we will experience this moment as a refreshing and exciting time. Our church is in a solid position for the Lord on all fronts and set up for a bright future of fellowship and excitement.
Lisa and I are stepping up, not down. While I am moving from the pulpit to the pew, we are committed to our Second Family. In our new capacity, we are eager to use our primary spiritual gifts of evangelism and encouragement within this family of faith. Evangelism has always been my heart's desire, and Lisa may do it better than anyone I know. I am committed to following Andrew's example in the New Testament. Lisa is a natural Barnabas with the gift of encouragement and is also teaching me to expand that cheerleading spirit in my ministry. We will stay in the battle.
Please know I love you collectively, and I love the individuals in this Body of Christ with all my heart. Long ago, I pledged to God that I would give Him all that I am and all that I will ever be. Though I am the chief of sinners, God has graciously allowed me to live out that calling with you. Serving you has been the great privilege of my life. You are family to Lisa and me.
May God continue to keep His hand on His Second Family.
We have only just begun.
His and yours,
H. Edwin Young