In his letter of June 1, board chair Rob Powell writes, “On behalf of the Oakton Board, and with sadness and regret, I accepted the resignation of Pastor Chris Bowman, effective September 1, 2014.”
In the accompanying letter Pastor Bowman shared that he and Sherry believe the new call to be “real and right.” He also shared his belief that Oakton Church’s renewed sense of vitality and purpose will continue forward in spite of the transition. Pastor Chris writes, “The Spirit is stirring [at Oakton Church] and the future looks bright. I am sad not to be entering it with you.”
Pastor Chris has mentioned that one of the great joys of serving our church is the chance to know and love each person. “Oakton is a wonderful congregation. We got to know each other, both the good and the difficult parts of our personalities, and we love each other as brothers and sisters. While we are excited about God’s call in this new ministry as Pastor of the Manassas Church of the Brethren, we are sad to be leaving such good friends and such a wonderful family of faith.”
The board has appointed Vice-Chair Brian Bachman to lead a transition team to help us work through the coming months and begin the search for a new pastor. The District has been notified and the work to find an interim has begun.
Chris, Sherry, Jacob, Melissa, and Chewbacca Bowman
September, 2004
Chris and Sherry, along with their children Melissa and Jacob, came to Oakton Church in September 2004. Sherry plans to continue to work as a supervisor for Fairfax County Community Services Board after the move. Jacob graduated from the University of Mary Washington in 2012. He is engaged to be married and currently lives in Woodbridge VA. Melissa lives in Baltimore where she is pursuing her PhD.
Questions? Check out the FAQ or contact Pastor Chris or a member of the deacons or church board.