Dr. King Counts, Minister of Pastoral Care and Counseling
If you’ve been around Stephens Valley Church for any length of time, you know that change tends to come in two varieties: the kind we resist and the kind God graciously nudges us into. I’m grateful to report that this transition feels very much like the latter. You may have heard that my role at SVC is changing. Angela and I will be moving back to Clarksville during the month of February. As I prepare to lighten my weekly responsibilities, serving as your Minister of Pastoral Care and Counseling has been a great joy and privilege. Truly—this congregation has been a gift, wrapped in kindness, tied with encouragement, and sometimes decorated with amazing opportunities to serve.
As Angela and I have begun packing and beginning the transition back to Clarksville, I’ve been reflecting on just how blessed I have been. We have, without exaggeration, the finest pastors, elders, and deacons I’ve ever been privileged to serve alongside during my 43 years in ministry. These men aren’t just leaders—they’re family, fellow pilgrims, and faithful friends. And while some pastors dread council meetings, I have found them encouraging and edifying. We have been spoiled by the sweet kindness and thoughtfulness of many individuals in our congregation and count many as dear friends.
Now, I’m turning 70 in a couple of months—yes, I know, I barely look a day over 65—and it seems the right time to slow my pace just a bit. There are personal reasons for this transition (a little more rest, more time with our growing family), practical reasons (Clarksville’s cost of living is friendlier than Nashville’s), and spiritual reasons, as well. I believe God is calling me to come alongside Pathway Presbyterian Church as they seek to become organized and align themselves with likeminded congregations. It’s a privilege to support a young church as they grow into what God is shaping them to be.
But let me assure you! Angela and I aren’t disappearing. Stephens Valley Church is our spiritual home from its beginning, and we intend to stay connected, engaged in serving, continue worshiping with you, and remain involved in the life of this remarkable congregation. You don’t get rid of us that easily—consider this more of a “repositioning” than a farewell. My deepest hope is to keep serving the Lord in these senior years, just with a slightly lighter load and a little more margin to savor the blessings He has given.
As we step into this next chapter, I humbly ask for your prayers—for wisdom, for your patience, for strength, for joy, and for God’s clear leading in this new season. And please know, we remain lovingly committed to the people, mission, and life of Stephens Valley Church!
Psalm 92:12–14
“The righteous flourish like the palm tree… They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green.”
