Covenant News

Walter, Hill Renominated for Continued Terms

CHICAGO, IL (February 3, 2003) - Gary Walter and Ruth Hill will be the nominees for executive minister positions in Church Growth and Evangelism and Covenant Women Ministries when delegates gather in June for the 118th Annual Meeting of the Evangelical Covenant Church.

Both individuals currently serve in their respective positions, which stand for election every four years.

"Gary Walter is an exceptionally gifted person," said Bill Clark of Walter's renomination. Clark chairs the Church Growth and Evangelism Committee of the Executive Board, of which Clark is a member. Clark praised Walter's ability to take complex matters and make them simple and understandable. "Gary is humble," Clark observed, adding that "with his gifts, he wouldn't have to be. One never gets the feeling around Gary that he is anything other than an earnest, faithful follower of Christ. He listens well, serves well and thinks well. Gary is a vital leader for the Covenant Church."

Walter has a rich history, moving from his journalism training into pastoral and ministry leadership roles, including churches in California and Washington. Hill and her husband, Brad, years ago served as missionaries in Zaire under the Department of World Mission.

Hill's renomination is described by the Covenant Women Ministries board chair as a divine appointment. "Ruth has been able to inspire, challenge and move women with clear purpose and vision toward vibrant, meaningful ministry," said Betty Howard. "It is a privilege to be a part of Covenant Women Ministries under her leadership."

President Glenn Palmberg echoed the sentiments of others in expressing his support for both nominations.

"Gary has taken a department that was already successful in planting churches and, building on that foundation, has made it one of the premier church planting organizations in the country," Palmberg said. "He is respected and valued by all who know and work with him. He is a person of broad vision who cares not just about his particular area of ministry, but about every phase of the work of the kingdom."

"Ruth is a gifted speaker, a person of mature and sincere faith who is deeply appreciated by all who work with her or hear her speak," the president continued. "The Covenant's holistic emphasis on evangelism and compassion together as essential to the Christian life is epitomized in Ruth. Her leadership in ministries of compassion and in striving for ethnic diversity has contributed to strengthening the whole church.

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