Thirteen years ago, a couple from the South moved to Hartford, Connecticut. The church had been planted only a couple of months prior. They joined a small band of disciples who wanted to make a difference in the Greater Hartford area. From day one of their arrival, Gary and Gail Sciascia were more than leaders in our congregation. They were lovers and servants of others and captured all of our hearts. After six years in Hartford, the Sciascias were placed into the ministry to train for only about six months. Then they were "sent by the Spirit" to Groton/New London, Connecticut , to be the evangelist and women's ministry leader. They have laid down their lives there admirably for the past seven years.

Now, the winds of change are blowing again. The Sciascias have recently accepted an offer by the Phoenix, Arizona, congregation to serve there as evangelist and women's ministry leader. It was with sadness for their departure from Connecticut, but also gladness for their daring hearts to take risks for the furtherance of the gospel, that the Hartford church hosted one last hurrah for their family in New Britain on November 11. The Sciascias came to Connecticut with one, two-month old son and will leave (probably in December) with three children in tow (Garrett: 13; Brennan: 9; and Nicole: 2). In January, they will celebrate their 18th wedding anniversary. Gary preached his "Last Will and Testament Sermon" on the topic of Happiness. Gail also shared of her love and appreciation for the church here. Parting is sorrowful, but will only make heaven that much more sweet. We will always remember the sacrifice of a young family for God and Connecticut. What they have given to us in so many ways will never be forgotten.