Shepherds’ Support Endorsements

Comments from Pastors and Evangelists
Greg Waybright, President of Trinity International University
Rob Harrell, Senior Pastor of First Evangelical Free Church in Austin, Texas
Rander Draper, Senior Pastor of Maranatha Bible Church, San Antonio, Texas
Max Lucado, Author and Senior Pastor of Oakhills Church in San Antonio, Texas
David Walker, Senior Pastor at Alamo City Fellowship in San Antonio, Texas
Sammy Tippit, International Evangelist
Luis Palau, International Evangelist
Bob Rowley, District Superintendent, EFCA Texas, Oklahoma
Grant Kaul, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Bible Church, Waco, Texas
Marvin Smith (deceased), former missionary and Missions Pastor at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas
Pastor Joseph Stefanuti, Senior Pastor of Holy Trinity Baptist Church in Braila, Romania
Pastor Daniel Mrsic, Evangelical Church “Good News” in Split, Croatia
Steven M. Moutoux, Senior Pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Bristol, Pennsylvania
Bill Cose (deceased), Pastor of Visitation/Seniors at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas
Igor M. Yaremchuk, Pastor, Evangelist and Executive Vice-President of Irpen Biblical Seminary in Kiev, Ukraine
Peter Kasirivu, Gaba Community Church, Uganda
Rev. Edward & Barbra Mwansa, General Overseer, Church On The Rock, Zambia, Africa
Pastor Joe Tschirhart, First EFC, Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Comments from Friends and Christian Leaders
James F. Jennings, M.D., Psychiatrist, Adult Bible Teacher and Former Chairman of Wayside Chapel Elder Board
Malcolm Lancaster, M.D., Cardiologist and Adult Bible Teacher at Wayside Chapel for the Past 30 Years
Keith Eyre, M.D., Radiation Oncologist, and Elizabeth A. Eyre, M.D., Anesthesiologist
Harvey Pendleton, Co-Chaplain of the San Antonio Spurs and Current Member of Wayside Chapel Elder Board
Red McCombs, Businessman and Former Owner of the Minnesota Vikings, Denver Nuggets, and San Antonio Spurs
Brian Anderson, TV Play-by-play Announcer for the Milwaukee Brewers
Burt Hooton, Former Major League Baseball Pitcher and Currently a Pitching Coach
Richard “Tex” Brown, Lieutenant General (Ret), USAF
Martha Kelfer, Wife of the late Russell Kelfer, who was a Teacher and Elder at Wayside Chapel and Head of Discipleship Tape Ministries, Inc.
Roger Matkin, DMin, Director of San Antonio Area Christian Medical & Dental Associations

Greg Waybright, President of Trinity International University
“One of the most thrilling, though oft unheard, pieces of news in the world is the exponential growth of the church of Jesus Christ outside the U.S.. That wonderful news brings with it many challenges, however, i.e., the nurturing of the leadership for the global church. Many, many pastors are laboring in their growing churches with limited resources and little help. This reality is what makes Steve's ministry (Shepherds' Support, Inc.) so strategically important. And I know of no one better equipped to lead the vital ministry of strengthening global church leaders than Steve Troxel. He has years of effective pastoral experience in a church with an international impact and has personally served pastors in countless cross-cultural contexts. I therefore recommend the work of Shepherds' Support Inc. without reservation and with great enthusiasm.”
Rob Harrell, Senior Pastor of First Evangelical Free Church in Austin, Texas
“Steve is a true pioneer, passionate visionary, and pastor to pastors for so many. Only eternity will reveal how far reaching, how life transforming, how world impacting Steve's leadership has been at the helm of Wayside. Now as he devotes his efforts to be a full-time encouragement to those engaged in ministry around the world, God will be glorified even more through this man after His own heart. I consider it a privilege to know Steve and to commend him to you.”

Rander Draper, Senior Pastor of Maranatha Bible Church in San Antonio, Texas
“Steve is a dynamic shepherd with a tender-heart for pastors, third world ministries, and a sincere love that exceeds racial boundaries. My ministry has been richly blessed because of our intimate personal and spiritual relationship, global travel experiences, and pulpit exchanges. His ministry epitomizes the great commission.”


Max Lucado, Author and Senior Pastor of Oakhills Church in San Antonio, Texas
“Steve is top of the line. He has a heart for the church and a passion for Christ. Heed his heart!”

David Walker, Senior Pastor at Alamo City Fellowship in San Antonio, Texas
“As a pastor when I need a pastor, Steve is the pastor I look for. Without reservation or hesitation I commend him and his ministry to everyone fortunate enough to be touched by his life.”

Sammy Tippit, International Evangelist “Steve is a proven pastor, a great Bible teacher, and a man of integrity. He has been a blessing to my life personally, and I believe that God is going to use him in the years to come to encourage and strengthen pastors around the world with his solid Biblical teaching. Pastor Troxel is a pastor's pastor. His 34 years of shepherding Wayside Chapel in San Antonio has made him a man who knows the victories and struggles that the pastor faces. God has used him greatly and will continue to do so as he expands his outreach to minister to Christian leaders around the world.”
(top)

Luis Palau, International Evangelist
“Steve and I have worked together in a number of evangelistic campaigns and missions events these past two decades. He is a good friend and brother. He has a tremendous passion for missions, evangelism and the local church. Steve is a man of God, faithful servant leader, and champion for the great commission. He is one of the most qualified people I know to minister to pastors, mission leaders, and their families. I enthusiastically recommend the work of Shepherds’ Support Inc.”

Bob Rowley, District Superintendent of EFCA Texas-Oklahoma
“Steve is a great teacher and encourager. His wisdom from four decades in pastoral ministry will be a wonderful benefit to those serving Christ on the front lines. I recommend him highly!”

Grant Kaul, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Bible Church, Waco, Texas
“If you are looking for insights into the nature of pastoral ministry in a growing church and inspiration for what God can accomplish through long-term faithfulness to Him, then let me recommend that you strongly consider inviting Steve and Connie to your church. In the course of 48 hours we shared an encouraging dinner with the two of them at our home, an engaging open forum meeting with our elders and their wives, and a Sunday morning in which our entire church was significantly blessed by Connie’s special music and Steve’s challenging and personal message. Perhaps what you need and what your church would love is only one contact away.”

Marvin Smith (deceased), former missionary and Missions Pastor at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas
“During my 38 years as a missionary and missions leader, I have not met anyone as effective in building up and encouaging national pastors as Steve. His ability to speak to the life and ministry issues faced by pastors grows out of his own years of experience as a senior pastor coupled with an unpretentious transparency of life. Having served closely with him for over a decade on his pastoral staff, I was able to observe that his life backs up what he preaches.”

Pastor Joseph Stefanuti, Senior Pastor of Holy Trinity Baptist Church in Braila, Romania
“I have known Pastor Steve for 14 years. During this time, our congregation, Holy Trinity Baptist Church from Braila, Romania, has been in a strategic partnership with Wayside Chapel from San Antonio, Texas, led by Pastor Steve. Pastor Steve understood the vision God gave us here in Romania and was used mightily by the Lord in the fulfillment of this vision. During my 32 years of pastoral ministry, God used Pastor Steve to encourage, help and support our congregation in various ways, contributing greatly to the enlargement of God’s kingdom in Romania. I invited Pastor Steve to serve as the main guest speaker at the Romanian Baptist Union’s Annual Conference in 1997. He also taught pastors and missionaries from our Baptist Association and the students from our church based Bible Training Center. I really believe the greatest ministry opportunities are ahead of him. We are looking forward to continued working together with him to the glory of God.”

Daniel Mrsic, Senior Pastor of Evangelical Church "Good News" in Split, Croatia
“We, the Evangelical Church 'Good News' in Split, Croatia, have organized in partnership with Wayside Chapel (San Antonio, Texas) two conferences for pastors and their families from the Balkan region with Steve and Connie. I can, without a doubt, say that these conferences have been of a great blessing and benefit for the pastors, their wives and children, and we are really sorry not to have been able to host them more often. Pastor Steve and Sister Connie have succeeded to be what many try to be: 'the same among equals', which is just words for many leaders. Steve and Connie, with their great pastoral experience, ministering the Word in their family, in their local church and throughout the world, have greatly enriched our lives and opened for us new perspectives of what means life in ministry. Their lives are a great example of what it means to be servants of God and of others. Their faithfulness to the Word of God is inspiring to us. We are continually blessed, challenged and uplifted as we listen to Pastor Steve’s preachings through tapes, which is so encouraging and needy for us, leaders in the mission field. We, as the church's and God’s people in the Balkan, strongly recommend them and ask you to help them come to us as soon as possible, to share all the rich experiences they have from their persistent walk with Christ.”
(top)

Steven M. Moutoux, Senior Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Bristol, Pennsylvania
“I have known Pastor Steve for nearly forty years, both as a mentor/friend and as a guest speaker. Steve is a godly man of integrity and has a gift for communicating the Word of God. He will speak the truth in love without compromise. Our people enjoyed him and would like to have him back again. I highly recommend him!”

Bill Cose (deceased), Pastor of Visitation and Seniors at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas
“Wayside has grown to be a great congregation because of the following reasons: Pastor Steve’s faithfulness to the Biblical text, consistent expository preaching of God’s Word, a no debt policy and Steve’s love and heart for missions locally, and around the world. Under his leadership, Wayside has consistently given over 1 million dollars a year to support and send out missionaries. I highly recommend Steve for Bible and Missions Conferences, ministry to pastors and wives, and missionary families, both locally and around the world.”

Igor M. Yaremchuk, Pastor, Evangelist and Executive Vice-President of Irpen Biblical Seminary in Kiev, Ukraine
“I have known Steve for ten years and would like to testify that his personality is as great as his preaching ability. He has a gift of encouragement and discipleship. He has been in Ukraine twice and has helped greatly with family conferences and evangelistic events. It is an honor for me to have Steve as a friend and ministry partner.”
Peter Kasirivu, Gaba Community Church, Uganda
“What a blessing we had to have you here in Uganda. We were so much inspired and encouraged by your messages both in the church and during the conference. I personally loved your openness in sharing the challenges and the victories that you have gone through as you have served as a pastor for the last 40 years. The Supremacy of Christ theme was greatly expounded, to us and I love the way you introduced the theme by showing Christ through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. The ministry you have embarked on is greatly needed here in Africa, because as you may have realized most of the leaders in the conference were below the age of 40 and the majority of them have never had a spiritual father in their lives. We need a pastor to Pastors, and you really showed this to us especially through the heart to heart talks you gave in the question and answer sessions. Irene shared with me also how Connie's sharing of the challenges she has gone through as you two have been serving, and this made it so real to the women that they were able to identify with her which led them to to open up for help.”

Rev. Edward & Barbra Mwansa, General Overseer, Church On The Rock, Zambia, Africa
“ Pastor Stephen and Connie Troxel have a mandate to minister to Pastors and their wives, and have a mandate to the continent of Africa. Their message is full of rich, well balanced expository, simple to understand, encouraging church leaders to live a life of Faith and Holiness. My wife and I have no doubt that through their ministry many ministers of the Gospel will finish well in the callings.”

Pastor Joe Tschirhart, First EFC, Tahlequah, Oklahoma
“ We invited Steve and Connie to come to our church at the urging of our district superintendent. And when they came, they came to serve! They truly gave of themselves as they spent time with my wife and me, our church leadership and our congregation. With Steve’s vast experience in ministry, I somewhat expected him to come as the one to tell us “how it should be done”. But instead, he came as one who has suffered the same disappointments, heartaches and mistakes that we experience. His message on who we are in Christ was a strong motivator to the church to share the message of Christ’s love and forgiveness with those outside the church. Our congregation has made some new friends and we strongly recommend their ministry of encouragement.”

James F. Jennings, M.D., Psychiatrist, Adult Bible Teacher and Former Chairman of Wayside Chapel Elder Board
“Steve is one of the finest pastors I have ever worked with. God has used this outstanding Bible teacher to build one of the most balanced churches we have ever served in.”
(top)

Malcolm Lancaster, M.D. Cardiologist and Adult Bible Teacher at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas for the Past 30 Years
“I have had the opportunity to travel with Steve and Connie, most recently for two pastors-wives conferences in the Ukraine. One conference had predominantly younger couples and the other were generally much older. The needs of the two groups were markedly different as evidenced in the question and answer sessions. It was clear that Steve was able to effectively meet the needs of each group and to bring them solid encouragement. His command of scripture coupled with his personal openness and heart for them won the day. Connie, likewise, was especially effective in meeting the needs of the ladies. I believe God has uniquely equipped them as a couple to have an effective ministry of encouragement to pastors, missionaries, Christian workers and their families throughout the world.”


Keith Eyre, M.D., Radiation Oncologist, and Elizabeth A. Eyre, M.D., Anesthesiologist
“Steve and Connie aren't just a charming and youthful couple, but people of impressive wisdom and depth. As our pastor since 1992, we have thanked God for Steve's deep love for the Word of God (much of it 'hidden in his heart'), outstanding teaching and spiritual leadership. He is a man without guile--transparent and honest; who faithfully lives what he preaches. It was our joy to co-labor with the Troxels at two Pastors'-Wives Conferences in Ukraine, where we witnessed firsthand, desperate spiritual needs being met through their teaching and openly sharing all aspects of their over 40 years in the senior pastorate. The impact we had medically pales in comparison to the impact they had spiritually. Truly, Steve and Connie have been uniquely prepared by God for their new ministry of encouraging His servants worldwide.”

Harvey Pendleton, Co-Chaplain of the San Antonio Spurs and Current Member of Wayside Chapel Elder Board
“Steve has been a shining example to me in how to be a Christian husband, father, friend and pastor. However, the primary asset he has been for me is that in the past 24 years I have learned from him how to be transparent and to let others see how God has really made me.”

Red McCombs, Businessman and Former Owner of Minnesota Vikings, Denver Nuggets, and San Antonio Spurs
“My family has been privileged to know Steve and Connie for more than 32 years. During that time, Steve has demonstrated a constant love for the Lord, a shepherd’s heart for his church family, and the perseverance and hard work we all want to see in our leaders.”
(top)

Brian Anderson, TV Play-by-play Announcer for the Milwaukee Brewers
“Great communicators can inspire change. Those with a Godly heart and a Godly purpose can inspire salvation. Steve has inpired salvation for many, including me.” (Brian and Michelle attended Wayside Chapel regularly when they lived in San Antonio.)

Burt Hooton, Former Major League Baseball Pitcher and Currently a Pitching Coach
“I have known Steve for 25 years. He has been a great inspiration to me and my family as a man who earnestly seeks God's will. The same is true of his wife Connie. Her love for God and support for Steve are an inspiration to him, as well as those of us who know them. As a teacher, Steve is true to God's word. From the pulpit, he has been a model of truth, consistency, and integrity. As a friend, he models that same truth, consistency, and integrity. God's word is written, and is still being written on Steve's heart, and he has a heart that wants to share it with all.”

Richard “Tex” Brown, Lieutenant General (Ret), USAF
“Steve Troxel is the BEST!!! I have grown up in the church, lived all over the world, attended/joined numerous churches of many denominations from small to mega-church and I can attest he is the best preacher and pastor I have ever known. His understanding of the Bible and God’s teachings is second to none. He always preaches the Gospel message and touches the hearts of all his listeners. Just as importantly, he lives what he preaches and his life and Connie’s reflect their love for the Lord and each other. As they expand their ministry to the rest of the world, they are truly taking on the Great Commission. The world will be a better place because the Troxels are making this move and taking God’s love to the far reaches of our planet.”


Martha Kelfer, Wife of the late Russell Kelfer, who was a Teacher and Elder at Wayside Chapel and Head of Discipleship Tape Ministries, Inc.
“My late husband, Russell Kelfer, co-labored with Steve for more than 25 years, teaching adults while Steve preached. I know he would be rejoicing that as Steve steps out into his new role as shepherd to other shepherds. Many leaders around the world will benefit from his pastoral experience. Learning from Steve's and Connie's personal experiences about the incredible ways God meets our every need in the midst of overwhelmingly difficult life-circumstances, will bless and encourage other strugglers and bring glory to Him.”
(top)
Roger Matkin, DMin, San Antonio Area Christian Medical & Dental Associations, Director
“I have a longstanding friendship with Steve. He has been a regular speaker over the years at our weekly, on-campus meeting for medical and dental students at the UT Health Science Center. Steve is always well spoken of and relevant to our students' life circumstance. His ability to recall Scripture verbatim is nothing short of amazing. Over the years he has demonstrated a clear call to overseas missions, especially as related to supporting local pastors. This is really not a "new" ministry for Steve. It is simply a continuation of what he has been doing for years with the intensity and complexity turned up a notch. My hope is that many healthcare professionals will join him in this vital ministry to folks around the world who need this kind of wholistic care.”



	Comments from Pastors and Evangelists Greg Waybright, President of Trinity International University Rob Harrell, Senior Pastor of First Evangelical Free Church in Austin, Texas Rander Draper, Senior Pastor of Maranatha Bible Church, San Antonio, Texas Max Lucado, Author and Senior Pastor of Oakhills Church in San Antonio, Texas David Walker, Senior Pastor at Alamo City Fellowship in San Antonio, Texas Sammy Tippit, International Evangelist Luis Palau, International Evangelist Bob Rowley, District Superintendent, EFCA Texas, Oklahoma Grant Kaul, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Bible Church, Waco, Texas Marvin Smith (deceased), former missionary and Missions Pastor at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas Pastor Joseph Stefanuti, Senior Pastor of Holy Trinity Baptist Church in Braila, Romania Pastor Daniel Mrsic, Evangelical Church “Good News” in Split, Croatia Steven M. Moutoux, Senior Pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Bristol, Pennsylvania Bill Cose (deceased), Pastor of Visitation/Seniors at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas Igor M. Yaremchuk, Pastor, Evangelist and Executive Vice-President of Irpen Biblical Seminary in Kiev, Ukraine Peter Kasirivu, Gaba Community Church, Uganda Rev. Edward & Barbra Mwansa, General Overseer, Church On The Rock, Zambia, Africa Pastor Joe Tschirhart, First EFC, Tahlequah, Oklahoma Comments from Friends and Christian Leaders James F. Jennings, M.D., Psychiatrist, Adult Bible Teacher and Former Chairman of Wayside Chapel Elder Board Malcolm Lancaster, M.D., Cardiologist and Adult Bible Teacher at Wayside Chapel for the Past 30 Years Keith Eyre, M.D., Radiation Oncologist, and Elizabeth A. Eyre, M.D., Anesthesiologist Harvey Pendleton, Co-Chaplain of the San Antonio Spurs and Current Member of Wayside Chapel Elder Board Red McCombs, Businessman and Former Owner of the Minnesota Vikings, Denver Nuggets, and San Antonio Spurs Brian Anderson, TV Play-by-play Announcer for the Milwaukee Brewers Burt Hooton, Former Major League Baseball Pitcher and Currently a Pitching Coach Richard “Tex” Brown, Lieutenant General (Ret), USAF Martha Kelfer, Wife of the late Russell Kelfer, who was a Teacher and Elder at Wayside Chapel and Head of Discipleship Tape Ministries, Inc. Roger Matkin, DMin, Director of San Antonio Area Christian Medical & Dental Associations *Greg Waybright, President of Trinity International University* “One of the most thrilling, though oft unheard, pieces of news in the world is the exponential growth of the church of Jesus Christ outside the U.S.. That wonderful news brings with it many challenges, however, i.e., the nurturing of the leadership for the global church. Many, many pastors are laboring in their growing churches with limited resources and little help. This reality is what makes Steve's ministry (Shepherds' Support, Inc.) so strategically important. And I know of no one better equipped to lead the vital ministry of strengthening global church leaders than Steve Troxel. He has years of effective pastoral experience in a church with an international impact and has personally served pastors in countless cross-cultural contexts. I therefore recommend the work of Shepherds' Support Inc. without reservation and with great enthusiasm.” *Rob Harrell, Senior Pastor of First Evangelical Free Church in Austin, Texas* “Steve is a true pioneer, passionate visionary, and pastor to pastors for so many. Only eternity will reveal how far reaching, how life transforming, how world impacting Steve's leadership has been at the helm of Wayside. Now as he devotes his efforts to be a full-time encouragement to those engaged in ministry around the world, God will be glorified even more through this man after His own heart. I consider it a privilege to know Steve and to commend him to you.” Rander Draper, Senior Pastor of Maranatha Bible Church in San Antonio, Texas “Steve is a dynamic shepherd with a tender-heart for pastors, third world ministries, and a sincere love that exceeds racial boundaries. My ministry has been richly blessed because of our intimate personal and spiritual relationship, global travel experiences, and pulpit exchanges. His ministry epitomizes the great commission.” *Max Lucado, Author and Senior Pastor of Oakhills Church in San Antonio, Texas* “Steve is top of the line. He has a heart for the church and a passion for Christ. Heed his heart!” David Walker, Senior Pastor at Alamo City Fellowship in San Antonio, Texas “As a pastor when I need a pastor, Steve is the pastor I look for. Without reservation or hesitation I commend him and his ministry to everyone fortunate enough to be touched by his life.” Sammy Tippit, International Evangelist “Steve is a proven pastor, a great Bible teacher, and a man of integrity. He has been a blessing to my life personally, and I believe that God is going to use him in the years to come to encourage and strengthen pastors around the world with his solid Biblical teaching. Pastor Troxel is a pastor's pastor. His 34 years of shepherding Wayside Chapel in San Antonio has made him a man who knows the victories and struggles that the pastor faces. God has used him greatly and will continue to do so as he expands his outreach to minister to Christian leaders around the world.” (top) *Luis Palau, International Evangelist* “Steve and I have worked together in a number of evangelistic campaigns and missions events these past two decades. He is a good friend and brother. He has a tremendous passion for missions, evangelism and the local church. Steve is a man of God, faithful servant leader, and champion for the great commission. He is one of the most qualified people I know to minister to pastors, mission leaders, and their families. I enthusiastically recommend the work of Shepherds’ Support Inc.” *Bob Rowley, District Superintendent of EFCA Texas-Oklahoma* “Steve is a great teacher and encourager. His wisdom from four decades in pastoral ministry will be a wonderful benefit to those serving Christ on the front lines. I recommend him highly!” *Grant Kaul, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Bible Church, Waco, Texas* “If you are looking for insights into the nature of pastoral ministry in a growing church and inspiration for what God can accomplish through long-term faithfulness to Him, then let me recommend that you strongly consider inviting Steve and Connie to your church. In the course of 48 hours we shared an encouraging dinner with the two of them at our home, an engaging open forum meeting with our elders and their wives, and a Sunday morning in which our entire church was significantly blessed by Connie’s special music and Steve’s challenging and personal message. Perhaps what you need and what your church would love is only one contact away.” *Marvin Smith (deceased), former missionary and Missions Pastor at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas* “During my 38 years as a missionary and missions leader, I have not met anyone as effective in building up and encouaging national pastors as Steve. His ability to speak to the life and ministry issues faced by pastors grows out of his own years of experience as a senior pastor coupled with an unpretentious transparency of life. Having served closely with him for over a decade on his pastoral staff, I was able to observe that his life backs up what he preaches.” *Pastor Joseph Stefanuti, Senior Pastor of Holy Trinity Baptist Church in Braila, Romania* “I have known Pastor Steve for 14 years. During this time, our congregation, Holy Trinity Baptist Church from Braila, Romania, has been in a strategic partnership with Wayside Chapel from San Antonio, Texas, led by Pastor Steve. Pastor Steve understood the vision God gave us here in Romania and was used mightily by the Lord in the fulfillment of this vision. During my 32 years of pastoral ministry, God used Pastor Steve to encourage, help and support our congregation in various ways, contributing greatly to the enlargement of God’s kingdom in Romania. I invited Pastor Steve to serve as the main guest speaker at the Romanian Baptist Union’s Annual Conference in 1997. He also taught pastors and missionaries from our Baptist Association and the students from our church based Bible Training Center. I really believe the greatest ministry opportunities are ahead of him. We are looking forward to continued working together with him to the glory of God.” *Daniel Mrsic, Senior Pastor of Evangelical Church "Good News" in Split, Croatia* “We, the Evangelical Church 'Good News' in Split, Croatia, have organized in partnership with Wayside Chapel (San Antonio, Texas) two conferences for pastors and their families from the Balkan region with Steve and Connie. I can, without a doubt, say that these conferences have been of a great blessing and benefit for the pastors, their wives and children, and we are really sorry not to have been able to host them more often. Pastor Steve and Sister Connie have succeeded to be what many try to be: 'the same among equals', which is just words for many leaders. Steve and Connie, with their great pastoral experience, ministering the Word in their family, in their local church and throughout the world, have greatly enriched our lives and opened for us new perspectives of what means life in ministry. Their lives are a great example of what it means to be servants of God and of others. Their faithfulness to the Word of God is inspiring to us. We are continually blessed, challenged and uplifted as we listen to Pastor Steve’s preachings through tapes, which is so encouraging and needy for us, leaders in the mission field. We, as the church's and God’s people in the Balkan, strongly recommend them and ask you to help them come to us as soon as possible, to share all the rich experiences they have from their persistent walk with Christ.” (top) *Steven M. Moutoux, Senior Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Bristol, Pennsylvania* “I have known Pastor Steve for nearly forty years, both as a mentor/friend and as a guest speaker. Steve is a godly man of integrity and has a gift for communicating the Word of God. He will speak the truth in love without compromise. Our people enjoyed him and would like to have him back again. I highly recommend him!” *Bill Cose (deceased), Pastor of Visitation and Seniors at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas* “Wayside has grown to be a great congregation because of the following reasons: Pastor Steve’s faithfulness to the Biblical text, consistent expository preaching of God’s Word, a no debt policy and Steve’s love and heart for missions locally, and around the world. Under his leadership, Wayside has consistently given over 1 million dollars a year to support and send out missionaries. I highly recommend Steve for Bible and Missions Conferences, ministry to pastors and wives, and missionary families, both locally and around the world.” *Igor M. Yaremchuk, Pastor, Evangelist and Executive Vice-President of Irpen Biblical Seminary in Kiev, Ukraine* “I have known Steve for ten years and would like to testify that his personality is as great as his preaching ability. He has a gift of encouragement and discipleship. He has been in Ukraine twice and has helped greatly with family conferences and evangelistic events. It is an honor for me to have Steve as a friend and ministry partner.” *Peter Kasirivu, Gaba Community Church, Uganda* “What a blessing we had to have you here in Uganda. We were so much inspired and encouraged by your messages both in the church and during the conference. I personally loved your openness in sharing the challenges and the victories that you have gone through as you have served as a pastor for the last 40 years. The Supremacy of Christ theme was greatly expounded, to us and I love the way you introduced the theme by showing Christ through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. The ministry you have embarked on is greatly needed here in Africa, because as you may have realized most of the leaders in the conference were below the age of 40 and the majority of them have never had a spiritual father in their lives. We need a pastor to Pastors, and you really showed this to us especially through the heart to heart talks you gave in the question and answer sessions. Irene shared with me also how Connie's sharing of the challenges she has gone through as you two have been serving, and this made it so real to the women that they were able to identify with her which led them to to open up for help.” *Rev. Edward & Barbra Mwansa, General Overseer, Church On The Rock, Zambia, Africa “ Pastor Stephen and Connie Troxel have a mandate to minister to Pastors and their wives, and have a mandate to the continent of Africa. Their message is full of rich, well balanced expository, simple to understand, encouraging church leaders to live a life of Faith and Holiness. My wife and I have no doubt that through their ministry many ministers of the Gospel will finish well in the callings.” Pastor Joe Tschirhart, First EFC, Tahlequah, Oklahoma “ We invited Steve and Connie to come to our church at the urging of our district superintendent. And when they came, they came to serve! They truly gave of themselves as they spent time with my wife and me, our church leadership and our congregation. With Steve’s vast experience in ministry, I somewhat expected him to come as the one to tell us “how it should be done”. But instead, he came as one who has suffered the same disappointments, heartaches and mistakes that we experience. His message on who we are in Christ was a strong motivator to the church to share the message of Christ’s love and forgiveness with those outside the church. Our congregation has made some new friends and we strongly recommend their ministry of encouragement.” James F. Jennings, M.D., Psychiatrist, Adult Bible Teacher and Former Chairman of Wayside Chapel Elder Board* “Steve is one of the finest pastors I have ever worked with. God has used this outstanding Bible teacher to build one of the most balanced churches we have ever served in.” (top) *Malcolm Lancaster, M.D. Cardiologist and Adult Bible Teacher at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas for the Past 30 Years* “I have had the opportunity to travel with Steve and Connie, most recently for two pastors-wives conferences in the Ukraine. One conference had predominantly younger couples and the other were generally much older. The needs of the two groups were markedly different as evidenced in the question and answer sessions. It was clear that Steve was able to effectively meet the needs of each group and to bring them solid encouragement. His command of scripture coupled with his personal openness and heart for them won the day. Connie, likewise, was especially effective in meeting the needs of the ladies. I believe God has uniquely equipped them as a couple to have an effective ministry of encouragement to pastors, missionaries, Christian workers and their families throughout the world.” *Keith Eyre, M.D., Radiation Oncologist, and Elizabeth A. Eyre, M.D., Anesthesiologist* “Steve and Connie aren't just a charming and youthful couple, but people of impressive wisdom and depth. As our pastor since 1992, we have thanked God for Steve's deep love for the Word of God (much of it 'hidden in his heart'), outstanding teaching and spiritual leadership. He is a man without guile--transparent and honest; who faithfully lives what he preaches. It was our joy to co-labor with the Troxels at two Pastors'-Wives Conferences in Ukraine, where we witnessed firsthand, desperate spiritual needs being met through their teaching and openly sharing all aspects of their over 40 years in the senior pastorate. The impact we had medically pales in comparison to the impact they had spiritually. Truly, Steve and Connie have been uniquely prepared by God for their new ministry of encouraging His servants worldwide.” *Harvey Pendleton, Co-Chaplain of the San Antonio Spurs and Current Member of Wayside Chapel Elder Board* “Steve has been a shining example to me in how to be a Christian husband, father, friend and pastor. However, the primary asset he has been for me is that in the past 24 years I have learned from him how to be transparent and to let others see how God has really made me.” *Red McCombs, Businessman and Former Owner of Minnesota Vikings, Denver Nuggets, and San Antonio Spurs* “My family has been privileged to know Steve and Connie for more than 32 years. During that time, Steve has demonstrated a constant love for the Lord, a shepherd’s heart for his church family, and the perseverance and hard work we all want to see in our leaders.” (top) *Brian Anderson, TV Play-by-play Announcer for the Milwaukee Brewers* “Great communicators can inspire change. Those with a Godly heart and a Godly purpose can inspire salvation. Steve has inpired salvation for many, including me.” (Brian and Michelle attended Wayside Chapel regularly when they lived in San Antonio.) *Burt Hooton, Former Major League Baseball Pitcher and Currently a Pitching Coach* “I have known Steve for 25 years. He has been a great inspiration to me and my family as a man who earnestly seeks God's will. The same is true of his wife Connie. Her love for God and support for Steve are an inspiration to him, as well as those of us who know them. As a teacher, Steve is true to God's word. From the pulpit, he has been a model of truth, consistency, and integrity. As a friend, he models that same truth, consistency, and integrity. God's word is written, and is still being written on Steve's heart, and he has a heart that wants to share it with all.” *Richard “Tex” Brown, Lieutenant General (Ret), USAF* “Steve Troxel is the BEST!!! I have grown up in the church, lived all over the world, attended/joined numerous churches of many denominations from small to mega-church and I can attest he is the best preacher and pastor I have ever known. His understanding of the Bible and God’s teachings is second to none. He always preaches the Gospel message and touches the hearts of all his listeners. Just as importantly, he lives what he preaches and his life and Connie’s reflect their love for the Lord and each other. As they expand their ministry to the rest of the world, they are truly taking on the Great Commission. The world will be a better place because the Troxels are making this move and taking God’s love to the far reaches of our planet.” *Martha Kelfer, Wife of the late Russell Kelfer, who was a Teacher and Elder at Wayside Chapel and Head of Discipleship Tape Ministries, Inc.* “My late husband, Russell Kelfer, co-labored with Steve for more than 25 years, teaching adults while Steve preached. I know he would be rejoicing that as Steve steps out into his new role as shepherd to other shepherds. Many leaders around the world will benefit from his pastoral experience. Learning from Steve's and Connie's personal experiences about the incredible ways God meets our every need in the midst of overwhelmingly difficult life-circumstances, will bless and encourage other strugglers and bring glory to Him.” (top) *Roger Matkin, DMin, San Antonio Area Christian Medical & Dental Associations, Director* “I have a longstanding friendship with Steve. He has been a regular speaker over the years at our weekly, on-campus meeting for medical and dental students at the UT Health Science Center. Steve is always well spoken of and relevant to our students' life circumstance. His ability to recall Scripture verbatim is nothing short of amazing. Over the years he has demonstrated a clear call to overseas missions, especially as related to supporting local pastors. This is really not a "new" ministry for Steve. It is simply a continuation of what he has been doing for years with the intensity and complexity turned up a notch. My hope is that many healthcare professionals will join him in this vital ministry to folks around the world who need this kind of wholistic care.”
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