Hello, my name is Doug Gidding. I was raised in Sutter Creek, a small town in the Sierra foothills. I grew up accustomed to knowing many people, and many people in town knowing me. I believe that this lifestyle has carried over into my adult life…I love a small-church atmosphere where just about everyone knows everyone else. To me, this encourages close bonds and care for one another. I came to Stockton 24 years ago after starting my career as a mechanical designer with Lawrence Livermore Lab. Sandy and I started attending SCC in 1989 after an invitation from the Associate Pastor, and quickly found the people warm and welcoming. I grew up in the Sutter Creek Methodist Church, but as a teenager, fell away from attending each week. But, God still had a hold on my life. By the time that we started our own family, I think God was speaking to me, telling me to come back. During the 1990’s, I served as the mid-week AWANA Commander for seven years. I had a volunteer staff of 20-25 adults and high school students, leading 80-100 first through sixth graders each week. Those were extremely busy days in my life, but very rewarding. This is my second time serving with the governing body of SCC. The first time, in the 90’s, I served on the Executive Board as a Member-at-Large. Then in 2008, I was elected to the Council as the Communication Coordinator. The Communication position was a draw for me in that I started to see my strengths in the areas of enabling and promoting significant ministry. As I have been selected as Chair of the Council in 2009, I have been especially able to use my skills to promote leadership and ministry in the church. My current passions include leader development, and giving opportunities for others to serve as they are able. I see the future of SCC built on the foundation of God-inspired ministry in outreach, youth and children, and encouraging service within the body. I believe real growth happens when people “plug-in”, and that Jesus had it right when he demonstrated sacrificial service. There is something very powerful when we humble ourselves and look to others’ needs first. This is where God has led me, and I take very seriously the duties that God has set before me. I encourage everyone to come forward with their hopes and dreams for Stockton Covenant. I know that all of us, working in unity, will build a wonderful future for this body of believers. Together, we have great hope!
Together, we have great hope!
