A Tribute to a Dear Friend

Mark MacAllister was the very first staff member I put on staff back in 1982. Born in California, and relocating to Denver, Mark joined me when we first began our Bible Study at "The Lakes" Apartments in Albuquerque. As the little group of people emerged into a worship community and later into fellowship known as Calvary of Albuquerque, Mark was there at my side. Like Jonathan was to David in the Old Testament, Mark became the closest of friends and co-laborers. One of the fondest memories I cherish is that He and I had our own unique way of joking and seeing life in a humorous light that helped to mitigate the harder aspects of ministry and church planting. But Mark also struggled. Pain in his back and a subsequent surgery made daily life a sheer torment for him. Mark also struggled with depression and because of that he became the most sensitive and caring shepherd for God's sheep who struggled with deep issues. He knew the "frequency" that sufferers and pain-bearers tuned into and he could dial right into their thoughts and provide comfort and assurance. Sadly Mark left this world on January 7th, 2011. Though safe in his Father's house and without the constraints of the physical world, I sorely will miss him and am thankful for his immense contribution to my life as friend, counselor and fellow worshiper. Please pray for Marks wife Jody, and his children Levi and Bree.

The Memorial Service for Mark MacAllister will be held at Calvary of Albuquerque on Monday, January 31, 2011 at 2:00 pm in the main sanctuary. For those of you that cannot make it, the service will stream live online at http://www.calvaryabq.tv/live/ starting at 1:45 pm.