Articles
Tribute to Martin and Joanie Adams
I knew both Martin and Joanie many years ago at Florida College. But that is not where the really important story and relationship begins. That would be here at Centreville. Martin is largely responsible for my move here, having been the contact point in late 2006. He remembered me from college days and reached out to me about my interest in moving to northern Virginia. For various reasons I balked at first, but rather than being put off Martin and Rick continued the conversation. This led to a visit, then another, and more discussion until finally we all reached agreement to move forward with my work here as an evangelist.
I wouldn’t exactly be spilling a secret if I noted Martin has a … well … a rather strong personality. I didn’t know how that would impact the dynamics of an elder/preacher relationship. But after 8½ years of working together, I can honestly say that our working relationship has meshed very smoothly and Martin (and Rick as well) has been very supportive, encouraging and respectful of my efforts. I’m sure that coming from a preaching family has honed his sensitivity for both the work and the challenges of evangelism. There has been no micromanagement, no sense of looking over my shoulder, no doubts about whether the elders had my back. That kind of support will exponentially enhance a preacher’s work; the lack of it will destroy it. I have felt affirmed and appreciated by Martin’s advocacy.
Martin and Rick have each brought unique talents and gifts to bear in shepherding this congregation. Martin has capably handled matters that called for clear thinking, immediate action and a strong hand. There is no way to measure how many problems have been avoided, souls counseled, disagreements resolved, false ideas squelched and weak disciples strengthened through Martin’s efforts.
Also difficult to quantify is the leadership atmosphere that Martin has, along with Rick, helped create and maintain. The hours of thought and implementation of that which provides direction and structure to a congregation in worship, classes, teachers, supported preachers, the weak who need encouragement, etc. is a huge and often intangible benefit.
Joanie’s involvement has likewise been a tremendous blessing to Centreville. It didn’t take long to see that Joanie is proactive, a self-starter. No one has to suggest something for Joanie to do; she is already ahead of most of us. From teaching children’s classes to painting to decorating bulletin boards to organizing card drops to noticing who needs a special woman’s touch … these and more describe Joanie’s legacy in this congregation.
Of course, a vital element of an elder’s work is the support of his wife. When done well, it almost goes unnoticed. Some elders’ wives try to take the reins from their husband; others shrink from the demands and undermine his potential. Joanie, I think all agree, is a wonderful complement to Martin and has made him a more effective elder.
Additionally, we all have come to love and appreciate Amber, Aurie and Adele as they have largely grown up among us. They have made their own mark and the Centreville church is richer for their presence among us. Sadly, when parents move, part of the fallout is the kids tend to migrate as well, and we see less of them. We have also vicariously enjoyed the Adams’ extended family and friends who have come to visit. That, too, will fade away. Thus are the joys and the heartaches of deep and meaningful relationships in this life. We wish Martin, Joanie and the girls well as they follow God’s providential path for them, and we thank them for their service to us all. But we are confident that they will all remain what we know them to be: genuine, involved, fruitful servants of God.
