Something More Real

“We were looking for something deeper than we had previously…something more real.”These are the words of Randy & Stephanie Murray explaining what drew them to Pathway Church back in 2011. Both grew up in families who attended church and were leaders in youth group while in high school. They met in a campus ministry while attending Kansas State University, and Randy talks about “living and breathing” that ministry—something that he missed and was seeking again.

Shifting from the youth group, to college, to the young adult scene was a big change, and finding community again was difficult. After the Murrays moved to Wichita they began seeking that community and happened upon Pathway, while looking for a new church home. The worship atmosphere instantly grabbed them to connect in a deeper way. Every week, they felt challenged from the teaching, many times feeling like the words of a message were written just for them.

After completing her professional training, Randy and Stephanie wrestled with two strong job opportunities for Stephanie, one which would keep them in Wichita and one which would move them away. They continued attending weekend services and their Home Team, and after much prayer and wise counsel, they felt God leading them to stay in Wichita and to continue to serve Him here.

For Stephanie, the recent study on Exodus revealed a critical life lesson in the story of Moses—not feeling qualified for the job you are called to do. Two years ago, they repeatedly saw the need for Tech volunteers in the weekend bulletin. A friend from their Home Team already volunteered in the Tech Ministry. Through him they learned more about the team and eventually felt God leading them to that ministry together, even though Stephanie had no previous experience. Since then, they have worked in roles such as video switching, video directing, graphics, and technical directing. God has shown that He works through the “unqualified” to build His kingdom in His way.

One of the lessons they are learning as a couple is to protect and balance their time commitment to their serving ministry. With two busy work schedules, they continue to seek to prioritize their valuable family time and serving time to move forward the Tech Ministry as God has called them.

By Lori Devaney | Photo by Dan Robertson