NHP Baptist Pastor Gary Scott's Goodbye: "It's Not Like a Job; It's a Family."

After spending almost 15 wonderful years at , Senior Pastor Gary Scott will be moving on to the next chapter in his life. He will become the pastor at a church in Tennessee. Although many parishioners are happy for him, they can’t help but be saddened because they know they are loosing a loving pastor and friend.

A farewell dinner, with over 150 people in attendance, was held on Sunday to honor Scott and his family. Postcards were laid on the table for guests to write final thoughts. There was an open mic where many were eager to share memories, give blessings and say thank you.

One parishioner, Kevin, recalled what the pastor’s wife Ann once said and it was, “This man practices what he preaches.” Everyone listening nodded their heads, smiling.

Many described Scott as a man who was never too busy for anyone and someone who always had a smile on his face. One woman said, “He is everything to me.”

Another parishioner, Sarah, praised Scott for being her and he husband’s number one supporter when deciding to go into mission work.

“He was right there by our side; he did everything that he could to make sure we were fulfilling what God was calling us to do," she said.

She also noted that he was willing to serve his people in any way, no matter what the job or time of day.

Associate Pastor Dan Olson summarized Scott as a teacher. He explained, “Gary encourages others to read the bible and live out their faith.”

Working with Scott for many years he has seen him as a life long learner.

For Scott, one of his best experiences has been the connection he has created with the wonderful people and families.

He stated, “It’s not like a job; it’s a family. I do something I absolutely love. I love speaking to the people, opening up God’s word. In one sense its like a child having candy for every meal. I just love teaching and preaching and administering to the people.”

A closeness was felt between him and his parishioners and Scott stated that it’s one of the main reasons leaving is difficult.

“It’s more than superficial," Scott said. "When people come and share struggles or sickness they went through, it builds a relationship and it just continues to grow.”

At the morning service, his sermon was about hope. He stressed that true hope is “confidence that what God promised will come true.” This is one of the most important messages he hopes to get out to the community. “There is a hope and a future for those who know Christ.”

His final sermon will be said Feb. 27 at 8:30 a.m. and 11am.