What a great day for the church on Sunday July 16^th! The youth lead a great service for a packed house.  Thank you to our youth for your work and for a wonderful service. During service Rev. Ralph Botte introduced himself and spoke for a few minutes. After the service a large group stayed with over 90 members and youth moved downstairs for food and a meet and greet with Rev. Ralph. After the meet and greet, Rev. Ralph did a fantastic job speaking to the group and answering several questions offered up by the group. Rev. Ralph left the building where we conducted a congregational meeting. After explaining the voting process to the group and giving a chance for any questions, Melissa Gerline-Clagg made motion to approve Rev. Ralph Botte as the next Senior Minister of First Christian Church Shelbyville which was seconded by Glen Hardesty. The group unanimously voted to approve the motion. Upon his return to the building, Rev. Ralph was introduced by Melissa to the group as the new Senior Minister of FCC which brought on a standing ovation by the group gather for the vote.  On behalf of the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors, and the Congregation of First Christian Church we thank the Pastoral Search Committee which consisted of  Melissa Gerline-Clagg, Emmie Higgins, Donna Beaty, Marsha Glasco, Joel Kenemore, Phil Haehl, & Brian Gould for all their hard work over the last 14 plus months getting us to this point.  Rev. Ralph and his family will join us in Shelbyville in early August. We look forward to their arrival here in Shelbyville. I would also like to thank the Worship Committee and all the ladies and gentlemen involved in providing and serving Sunday’s lunch.  It indeed was a great day for the life and future of our church.