Hi, I’m Jim Smith, president of Pacific Church Network. We’re a proud member of Venture Church Network. You might be wondering what’s around my face. This is an oxygen tube, and I’m 24/7 attached to this. I’m recovering from Covid. Thank the Lord I’m recovering!

Just before Christmas, I found out I had Covid. Even with two weeks self-quarantining in my bedroom and missing Christmas and New Year, I did not improve. I ended up in the hospital. It was touch and go for a while. People were praying for me all over. That’s what I like about being a part of the family of God and being part of Venture Church Network. I had every regional director contact me and say, “We’re praying for you.” Then they got together and had a prayer for me, then others mentioned this to other pastors, and they were praying and told their congregations about me. I had so many people praying for me. It was just amazing. It was great to feel the powerful force of the family of God.

Paul in 2 Corinthians 1:11 says, “Pray for us and then as God answers our prayer, more people can give glory to God!” (paraphrased).  I hope more people can give glory to God as I have recovered from my Covid experience. That’s what I like about Venture Church Network. They are relationally committed to one another. That’s one of their values, saying were here to help other churches do better and to encourage them to be with them. My wife came into the hospital every day and just sat with me and talked with me. I was so encouraged. The nurses noticed my numbers improved whenever my wife was there. That just encouraged me to say that we as people are meant to interact with others, to be socially interactive, to be relationally committed, and so as churches, we need to work together. I’m glad that Venture Church Network has that as one of their values, and I’m proud to be part of their network. I encourage you to work together with those churches that are a part of Venture Church Network. Together we’re better. We can work together for the glory of God. Thanks, Venture Church Network.

Jim Smith,

Pacific Church Network, President