Following Jerry Rushford
2011 October 11
People have been wondering who’d be crazy enough to try to follow Jerry Rushford? They should have thought back: who was crazy enough to follow Jim Woodroof and Lynn Anderson?
Here’s the article and interview from the Christian Chronicle. (Thanks so much, Bobby!) Let me just say: it is a joy and pleasure to work with President Andy Benton, Rick Gibson, Joella Michael, Tami Williamson, and all the people at Pepperdine.
http://www.christianchronicle.org/blog/2011/10/the-new-jerry-rushford-mike-cope-to-direct-pepperdine-bible-lectures/
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This is fantastic news Mike. Our staff considers the Pepperdine Lectures one of the premier gatherings of the year. You’re just the man for this! We’re totally on your side in this and look forward to continued connection with you! – Craig
They couldn’t have made a BETTER choice!!!
Congrats!!!
Congratulations. And you are choosing to stay in Abilene? Did I read that correctly? Has the director of the ACU lectureship asked if it’s ok if he lives in Malibu?
Wow! I didn’t see that coming! Congratulations to you and Pepperdine! You will be in my prayers as you make this transition.
(By the way, folks, if there’s any way to buy stock in John’s Garden restaurant in Malibu, NOW is the time to get in, if Mike is going to be there more often!)
Well, Mike, it’s taken 11 years to figure this one out, but we’re back on the same team again. Welcome to the Pepperdine community, my friend. I can say this with certainty: “You are in for an adventure!” And so are we all! Welcome! Darryl
Mike,
Congratulations! It was exciting to hear this news and I believe the Churches of Christ will continue to be blessed by having you direct the Bible Lectures at Pepperdine University.
Grace and Peace,
Rex
Thanks to all of you.
Darryl, this is my open, public invitation for you and Anne to change the locks on your doors. Otherwise, you’re liable to see a LOT of me.
Tim, that there’s just funny. But really true. Invest in John’s Garden, and tell John to increase the number of fresh avocados he keeps in the kitchen.
Are you continuing your work with Landon?
qb
Mike, we are excited about this next stage in the history of these Bible Lectures. I look forward to imagining what’s next!
Darryl has it right. An adventure awaits.
Congratulations! This is very cool.
Of course, I totally get it, but can you imagine what the folks in Malibu think of you opting to stay put in Abilene (of ALL places) instead of finding a nice little spot out there…
I’m so excited for you. And Pepperdine. What a great thing.
Blessings on this transition. I know God will use you amazingly.
Thank you all. QB, my work with Heartbeat was ending December 31, anyway. I’m launching a new nonprofit called “What Really Matters” that will continue the joyful work of the last couple years—of focusing on faith and culture discussions with young adults. I’ll be full-time with this nonprofit until May 15, when the Pepperdine gig begins; then I’ll be nonprofit. One nice thing, among many others, is that I won’t need to raise $ for salary for the nonprofit. Landon and I are looking forward to continue overlapping in our work.
Congratulations, Mike! Pepperdine is one Lectureship John & I have not attended, and we always say we need to go. This may give us the extra motivation we need. You will do a great job! I am thankful your influence in our churches is continuing to grow.
Hi Mike,
I’ve helped Jerry out (as we all have) for many years and I’m excited to get to assist you on the lectures. I think you’re a great choice to lead this program. I look forward to getting to know you and sharing my love of the java with you. I roast my own, and I’d love to share a cup.
Doug Hurley
We’re excited to see you in this new role. Congratulations!
I will duplicate my best wishes and congratulations to you here! I’m so thrilled for you and know you will find your own shoe size in the Lectureship, as you do wherever you set yourself to work in His Kingdom. It’s thrilling and frustrating. When will I ever be able to get to Malibu again? Maybe you’ll institute a live stream for we frustrated ones out here on the Texas Prairie!
Seriously, so pleased for you and your new venture. May our LORD guide your steps bringing you to expand glory and honor to Him in all you do! In Him, Kathy
ETA: You will be a neighbor to my friend Gregg and his coffee business. I really hope you two are able to get in tough. His business background is fascinating as is he. Still miss you, dear friend/preacher/pastor-teacher!!
OOPS – guess I should modify my usual salutation adding, Blessed Lectureship Director. YEAH!!!
Congratulations, my friend. Jerry is a treasure and there are few I would think could actually come up behind him. You’re on the top of that list. What a blessing!
Congrats! Proud of you!
Jerry has been awesome and this is the perfect selection. I did receive one award from Jerry….and I would like to keep the string going!
Go Cards and Rangers!
Oh, nearly forgot until Dusty reminded me.
Would you check on exactly where my Honorary Doctorate is in the mix of things. I know Jerry Rushford assured me he was working on it. Darryl Tippens told me in front of the Pepperdine crowd one morning that if I want an Honorary Doctorate, Rushford isn’t the guy; Darryl is.
Well, you can see the confusion here. And then I fear with you transitioning in that Jerry or Darryl may forget to bring this up.
Would you check on this?
Thanks!
I bet you’ve been wanting to be a lectureship director since you were a little boy. Congratulations!
Congrats Mike! And, you can run the beach, bike the hills of Malibu and get some pointers from the swim coach.
Like – Jeff’s comment!
Seasons of life, don’t they change. God in his Holy Spirit turns and twists us in many different directions. I can’t wait to see the season of the Pepperdine one! Maybe, Africa — after all!?!
My new blog is http://www.missionalchurchplanting.org. Would love for you to read behind us.
Blessings at Pepperdine!
Gailyn
I was thrilled to hear about your new “job.” God continues to open doors for you. I will look forward to seeing you in the future. It has been great for me to watch God use you in various ways. Stay on your knees!