A new congregation, recently affiliated with the Anglican Mission, has called its first ordained leader. The Rev. David Linka, Operations and Development Officer for the Anglican Mission since 2003, has accepted the call to serve as Priest and Rector at the First Anglican Church of Petoskey, Michigan. First Anglican joined the AMiA in the last several weeks following over a year of worshiping and growing as a lay-led congregation. Begun in February of last year, the core of the church emerged from historic Emmanuel Episcopal Church, deeply troubled by ECUSA's General Convention of 2003 and associated developments. Their focus has since been on evangelism and outreach.

"They are a great group of people," expressed the Rev. Linka, "and they have so many strengths already in place. They really want to be evangelists and there is excellent lay leadership. After all, they've kept a group of 100 worshipers together and moving forward for over a year."

Linka, who will be ordained to the Priesthood April 17th on his 43rd birthday, said he knew that God was calling him that direction soon after meeting the leaders of the Petoskey church. "I was intrigued by what was happening there last summer, and met with them to discuss the affiliation process with the Anglican Mission. I was asked 'how will we find a priest?' I answered that God knew exactly who their priest would be—and in that moment something deep in me responded." The following months were a time of prayerful discernment for the whole family, and each member had a say in the decision. It was unanimous.

Dave has taken some good natured ribbing about the upcoming move to northern Michigan, away from the warm environs of the Southeast where he and his family have spent most of their lives. "I did watch the Weather Channel all winter to try and prepare—but I really can't know what I'm in for," smiled Linka. "But it's not about that. Once God calls—and to a specific place—the only important thing is to respond and go, just like Abraham."

For the last two years Dave Linka has worked with churches seeking affiliation with the Anglican Mission as well as the Partners in Mission donors and general leadership at the office. "Dave has brought a zestful faith and strong leadership giftings to help the Mission in vital areas. All of these have borne good fruit and I am convinced that God's hand is in this call—a wonderful opportunity," offered the Rev. Tim Smith, Executive Officer of the Anglican Mission in The Americas.

First Anglican Petoskey is worshiping in the former Youth for Christ building and is eagerly awaiting the arrival of their new pastor and family sometime this summer. The church can be reached at 231-347-3448.

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