Pastor's Perspective — A blog by Pastor Wendell Smith

Watch the recorded memorial service

Pastor Wendell Smith

December 20 ()

“All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth.” (Hebrews 11:13 NLT)

On Sunday, December 19, 2010, our father, hero, pastor, and role model, Wendell Smith, left this life and met Jesus face to face. Words cannot express the gratitude of our family for your prayers of faith, kindness, and support.

In lieu of flowers we are asking that donations in Pastor Wendell’s name be made to either Rose Hill Cottages foster care housing (in Seattle) or the Wendell Smith Auditorium (in Las Vegas).

— Judah & Chelsea Smith; Wendy & Benny Perez

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Comments

I need your help.

— CHRISTINE ELAINE from CHARLOTTE NORTH CAROLINA (posted August 28, 2011 at 12:36pm)

I am grieved beyond measure- I just learned Pastor Wendell went home to the Lord. Cynthia and I were there at the strip mall upstairs and at the tent years ago; then the move to Kirkland. We love Wendell and Gini-always will. You both taught me about love; I will never forget it. We owe you so much. I’ve passed this info along to our children:Olivia, Matthew and Julia. God bless you all.

— Jim Anderson from Birch Bay Washington (posted August 8, 2011 at 6:44pm)

I was honored to be invited to and attend this service. Pastor Smith will forever hold a place of honor in my house and family as one of the most influential of God’s chosen ministers of our time. This great man of God was paid due respect with this wonderful service. Count him amoung the saints.

— Aaron Mostofi from Snoqualmie, WA (posted July 11, 2011 at 5:39pm)

Since two weeks God used Judah Smith to touch my heart for Jesus. I’m finding out about his dad now. Must have been a blessed person. I wish all the Smith-family also today Gods powerful comfort and blessing. My life changed and opened up to Jesus recently through you guys, thank you for being ‘available’ for God, make Jesus famous through His spirit! Paul Wolters Amsterdam NL

— paul wolters from The Netherlands (posted June 24, 2011 at 1:38am)

6 years ago today I first attended (Father’s Day 2005). Pastor Wendell’s profound apostolic grace as a father in the faith influenced my Christian walk greatly. I came discouraged and depleted. Every Sunday a home run - the anointing & sensitivity to the Spirit’s moving. Communicating creatively, his sense of humor, refreshing, faith renewed & family blessed. So grateful to sit under his ministry. I only regret that I didn’t have that opportunity much earlier in life.

— Lyle King from Everett, Washington (posted June 19, 2011 at 5:39pm)

Gini I think of you, often you inspire me. I remember our time as neighbors, you taught me about prayer you and Wendel prayed over our little boy Nyland, I remember praying for healing for Nyland with you I wanted it all.I remember you telling me to pray specific, so that night I prayed God would heal Nylands stomach and he did.I listen to your teachings online at times thank you, I hope you keep it up, your a true blessing. I hope you are finding strength at this time. God Bless Lori Espedal

— Lori Espedal from Portland (posted June 1, 2011 at 9:24pm)

My prayers go out to Pastor Wendell’s family. I just read the news (after being absent for awhile from my own father’s passing from lung cancer) and couldn’t help but shed some tears. I’m so sorry for your loss. Pastor Wendell was a great man of God, and he will be severely missed. I used his story to urge my own father on during his fight with cancer as well. It seems it was both their time to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. God Bless. <3

— Carrie Christensen from Redmond (posted May 15, 2011 at 9:22am)

Thanks for saying yes with your whole life! Thanks for making space for the Presence of God. My life was often impacted by the preaching/teaching of Pastor and the funny way he spoke the truth mixed with great joy and laughter. Miss you Pastor Wendell!

— Charity from United States (posted May 9, 2011 at 6:22pm)

What is sown in tears will be reaped in joy! Multiplication means: temporary death of a good seed… only to see its reappearance again in hundreds of thousands of new seeds (season after season), exactly like the original one, as the tree is fully grown.

— Tony WILKINS from West Palm Beach, FL, United States (posted May 9, 2011 at 6:11am)

Dear Pastor Wendell, This morning while drinking my morning coffee outside, the birds sang their melodious symphony-chasing one another through the trees, landing in the bird bath and then the bird feeder. The excitement and thrill only a fellow bird lover could know. I thought of you my pastor and missed you for just a moment. The red cardinals were just to showy to shed more than a tear. I can only imagine what it the songs you are all singing there. Shalom

— tamera cowles from Michigan (posted May 5, 2011 at 3:11pm)

My heart goes out to you and your family. Some of my fond memories of Pastor Wendell include our first visit to City Church. Pastor Wendell spoke about fasting. My husband decided to take a fast from drinking soda and he rarely drinks soda to this day.

Probably my favorite Pastor Wendell moment was when a young gentelman at the Belltown campus held up a sign that said “Pastor Wendell rocks the pulpit.”

That he did.

Love in Christ, Your Sister Kim Anh

— Kim Anh Cannon from Mars Hill Church, West Seattle Campus (posted April 23, 2011 at 3:45am)

Dear beloved Pastor, Can you please suggest me a way through which i can start working in the ministry of lord Jesus Christ. Me and my Wife really want to give our entire life in working in the name of god. Can you help us please.

— Michael MESSAY from Presently in Colombia (Pereira) (posted April 18, 2011 at 7:00pm)

I was recently involved in a City Group where we learned to play the guitar. Some of the songs we’ve played I could hear Pastor Wendell singing. I’ll never forget his sermon on Worship…it literally changed the way I think, worship and teach my kids about worship. We are praying fervently for your family. Love you!

— Theresa Reiff from North Bend, WA (posted April 16, 2011 at 10:11am)

I love Pastor Wendell Smith!

I was a member of the City Church for over 13 years, and can testify that his ministry changed me.

His words were words of faith. His gift was to encourage, and to love people. His, was a unique and well-lived life.

I know his home-coming is sad for some… but for me, it encourages me to live such just such a life.

— Randall Tom from Boise, ID (posted April 12, 2011 at 11:56am)

While living in Kirkland the City Church was my church home. Pastor Wendell didnt bring me TO the Lord but he kept me with him as he brought me back into that beautiful sanctuary week after week. I have never heard another pastor preach the word like him…although it goes without saying Judah is a close second…fruit from the tree. The Holy Spirit was ever present in that place.

— Erin Hina from Wasilla, Alaska (posted April 8, 2011 at 3:14am)

Pastor Wendell had such a profound impact on my life. No one ever encouraged me to love God and love others with such joy and faith like he did. I cherish my days with Pastor Wendell at The City Church.

Pastor Wendell, thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed.

I miss you Pastor.

— Casey Corrigan from Portland, OR (posted April 5, 2011 at 7:16am)

I’ve been listening to Pastor Wendell’s message “wasting time with God” from a prosperity conference 3+ years ago! So good to remember his voice and how funny he is! It is one of my favorite messages of his! There is no one that can ever replace our Pastor Wendell!

— Holly Hastings from Bothell, WA (posted April 4, 2011 at 9:03pm)

I knew it was a divine appointment when I went to church and heard “we can do this”.My boyfriends Dad had passed away from cancer just a few days before and this message could not have been more appropriate. When pastor Wendell started talking about heaven at the end of the message, it brought tears to both of our eyes, knowing that there was no greater comfort after such a loss. I will always remember that message because God reminded us of his promises and that “no matter what God wins”.

— Natalie from Kirkland (posted March 28, 2011 at 1:14am)

Greets from ministry of great commission Lahore Pakistan.

Dear Pastor Dr.Wendell Smith

I hope this email finds you in the best of good and sound health.

I am pleased to welcome you being minister of God throughout this realm of life. We wanted to keep relationship for the Glory to God as He Wanted from us.

have a good time and wonderful blessing through your service and family.

Bond in love of Jesus Christ. Pastor Shakil Mehmood

— Pastor,Shakil Mehmood from Lahor Pakistan (posted March 16, 2011 at 3:12am)

I was blessed enough to be able to sit with my husband in kirkland when Pastor Wendell gave his sermon “We Can Do This.” Being in church on that day was a divine appointment for me. My sister was murdered in 2005 and for the first time since her death I felt like I really could “do this.” That my parents could “do this.” It was through Pastor Wendell’s insightful delivery of the promises of God I already knew that I finally understood. All would be well, my fight was already won.

— Maria Bennyhoff from Orting, WA (posted March 14, 2011 at 11:59am)

Pastor Wendell was a huge inspiration to me in his fight of faith. When I was six, I was diagnosed with a type of autism called Asperger’s Syndrome. It is incurable but I still believe in God’s healing.I had a friend who had to have brain surgery and another ended up in the hospital while he preached the first message. By the following week my friend emerged from brain surgery completely healed and my friend with bipolar recovered within five days!I believe it was due to Pastor’s faith.

— Heidi Wangelin from Redmond, WA (posted March 13, 2011 at 3:25am)

I have been away for about 1 year and had no idea that Pastor passed away until yesterday at church in Belltown. I know he is in a much better place and I will miss him. My heart goes out to the family and church. Judah, you have my full support and prayers. Prior to my leaving I saw how God was blessing you to take over. Go with God my brother in Christ.

— Joe Corsi Jr from Belltown (posted March 7, 2011 at 1:23pm)

I always hear his voice in my head saying BE STRONG and YOU CAN DO IT…the closest I have ever felt to Jesus was the Holy Spirit in Pastor Wendell and have never personally experienced more compassion for the lost and those back sliding…His books help me in my daily walk of faith and I pray that in some way I will be anointed to serve his legacy in some way, God working through him changed my life forever.

— Dana Hand from Sultan WA (posted March 5, 2011 at 8:52pm)

Pastor Wendell really touched my heart. I pray for those who were close to him, that they would be comforted. I also rejoice that he finally got to be with the One whom he loves.

— Evodia Ulici from Kirkland (posted February 28, 2011 at 5:56pm)

I am saddened to hear about the passing of Pastor Wendell. Such a unique, fun-loving, strong, compassionate man of God. In 2006-2009, I would travel to the Seattle area often and would always treasure the visit to City Church-a true oasis of a church in the midst of desert times. Pastor Wendell’s teaching on the Lord’s Prayer still speaks to me today. Blessings to the family. Pastor Wendell has left an enduring legacy that I’m sure you will faithfully carry on. Stay strong in the Lord!

— Ferdinanda Taylor from Oxford, Georgia (posted February 24, 2011 at 8:35am)

I am so privileged too be a part of Generation Interns. To be a part of one of the greatest legacy’s Pastor Wendell left for us. I know that it’s going to reach all the nations. I’m blessed to have been in the church as long as I have been and to have heard God speak through Pastor Wendell the way that He has. God’s hand truly is on this church, it’s pastors and it’s members.

— Beatrice Sabou from Issaquah, Washington (posted February 24, 2011 at 12:09am)

Shortly after we joined City Church I was diagnosed Parkinsons’, an incurable disease that threatens to progressively steal my capacities and enjoyment of life. In God’s grace however, Pastor Wendell began his series on healing. Without this anointed teaching I don’t know that my hope in God would have survived. Pastor Wendell’s outward focus and his faith filled joy and optimism in the midst of his own suffering, continues to inspire me as I run my race to my finish line.

— Chris Knickerbocker from Everett, WA (posted February 20, 2011 at 9:46pm)

I was saved at 13, the year my parents divorced, and my life started over at the City Church. I saw God the Father through Pastor Wendell and I felt covered by his authority. I looked up so much to my Pastor Wendell, and I felt so safe when I heard his voice. I knew everything was going to be okay, because he said God was good and the devil was little. I am so grateful that I was adopted into this house, and covered by this family. Pastor Wendell was the Dad of this house, and I really miss him.

— Wendy Zeis from Kirkland, WA (posted February 19, 2011 at 12:58am)

I heard a bird singing this morning … and thought of Pastor Wendell and that he likely could have identified that happy little avian vocalist. (Might one of his unfinished manuscripts detail some of the ornithological love he occasionally, seasonally shared with us?)

— Geoff M. Pope from Renton, WA (posted February 17, 2011 at 10:07am)

Your committment to follow the Lord & challenge us as a congregation to line up your teaching with the word of God. Your transparency of marriage & its challenges & rewards. Your walk and demonstration of a loving husband, father, & grandfather. You have left a wonderful legacy. Jewels in your Crown which will be handed down for generations. Instilling GREAT FAITH, our family, restored and following the high call of that which is in Christ Jesus. Thank you. We are forever changed.

— Gina Schober from Issaquah, Wa (posted February 16, 2011 at 12:58am)

I thought Leviticus 14 was a very interesting passage as I was meditating on this and missing pastor Wendell. Jesus as taken the place of the old law and it’s ceremonial rituals. Our beloved pastor has been healed and purified by the blood of Jesus and now has been released to fly away in the great open field. wow! one day we will all understand it. John 3:16 Whoever believes…

— Carl Garrett from Bentonville Ar. (posted February 12, 2011 at 11:49pm)

Thank You for being a great friend,classmate,and teammate!

— craig gavin from portland oregon (posted February 11, 2011 at 2:44pm)

Dear Pastor Gini, Benny and Wendy, Judah and Chelsea,

Praying for each of you and your family, When I think of you I rejoice and thank God your example of His love. May your gentleness continue and your requests before God be with thanksgiving. His peace be with and may God supply your every need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. I thank God for Pastor Wendells message on We Can Do This.

— Dawn Pakkala from Portland OR (posted February 10, 2011 at 8:13pm)

Pastor Wendell, I never had the privilege of knowing you personally, but like many I have the honour to learn from you even after you have passed on to be with the Lord. Thank you for your life and your gift to the Church. You will continue to change the world for generations.

— Matthew Butler from Cochrane, Alberta, Canada (posted February 9, 2011 at 12:28pm)

I never heard Pastor Wendell preach. I only heard Judah Smith and Elijah Waters. While their messages penetrate my heart through podcasts, Pastor’s Wendell’s vision to see this happen is still going on! Without this awesome man of the Most High God, many life changing messages would not have reached my ears or the ears of those who tune in to these various podcasts.

— Rob Hash from Natchez, MS (posted February 9, 2011 at 11:12am)

I was remembering Pastor Wendell yesterday. I loved how he allowed the Holy Spirit to move in services. God’s plan was always more important than his. I remember one service he was so moved to pray that he stopped service and asked the entire congregation to kneel (at the altar, in the aisles, or at our seats), and we prayed for our country and for the nations. It was one of the most memorable services I have ever been to.

— Jessica Solberg from Kirkland (posted February 5, 2011 at 4:26pm)

Dearest Pastor Wendell, In 06 you taught that satan brings up old sins when God has an open door for me – now I look for the door rather than accept condemnation! I’ve learnt that God is not angry with me, He wants to do me good! He smiles at me! I’ve learnt that “I can do this” - I have the courage and faith to fight through pain because I know now God IS good. I’m learning now to “let tomorrow worry for me”. I miss you. With love, gratitude and deep admiration, Laurette

— Laurette Smith from Kirkland (posted February 5, 2011 at 9:45am)

what joy! he is with our Lord Savior and friend. you came to Elevation w/ sermon on Manesseh /Esua.Story changed my life and showed me what Jesus has done. Went home, wrote jesus is my Manessseh /read it every day for weeks. You are a great instrument of the Lord used in His hands to help others see the truth and grow in the Lord. Our growth comes from the foundation your dad laid into your life. I bless you,your mom ,dad and thank God for your family.Will continue to pray for you.

— kim spencer from charlotte/elevation (posted February 4, 2011 at 7:37pm)

Dear Pastor Wendell, I want to thank you for believing God at all times. I considered it a privelage to call you Pastor. Your consist messages about God’s goodness and faithfulness changed my life. My favorite memory of you was when I was studying in Oaxaca Mexico and you were preaching in Puebla, Mexico at Phil & Judy Jacquith’s church (Fuente para El Mundo). You treated me with such kindness and invited me along to your lunch. Thank you for looking after your sheep faithfully.

— Kiera Ojo from Redmond (posted February 3, 2011 at 7:40pm)

I am so sorry for your loss,for all our loss this is heartbreaking news.I will never get to tell him what he did for me.I read his book and I sent out 120 Christmas cards using his advice and it generated so many responses to our Prison Ministry. I wanted to Thank him because I was able to reach so many prisoners in just sixty seconds.God bless you DR.Wendell!To your loving family; my heart and prayers are with you all. Xochitl Lopez

— xochitl lopez from san diego (posted February 3, 2011 at 3:16pm)

Of all the Pastors we served under Pastor Wendell was the one that had the most impact on our life in our personal life, our married life and our ministry. We are in our walk and faith because of his and Gini’s ministry. He will be missed here on this earth. We will see you again one day again in His Kingdom. Pastor Gini, Judah and Wendy we love and your families.

— Dennis & Lorna Raffeo from Jacksonville, Florida (posted February 2, 2011 at 8:48pm)

1997 will always be “my year from heaven” because God led our family to The City Church. Hearing Pastor Wendell teach of God’s goodness and soaking in an atmosphere of faith transformed my life. Every sermon convinced me again that he was a Pastor without peer. He was completely trustworthy as he modeled how to pray, worship, live the Word, and obey God’s voice. His graciousness and generosity were extravagant, and I will always love the word “Pastor” because of him.

— Patti Heindel from Redmond, WA (posted February 2, 2011 at 7:05pm)

I was stunned to learn the first week of January that Brother Wendell had gone to be with Jesus, and to learn that he had cancer since 2004. I heard of it first in June,2010. In October I felt impulsed by the Holy Spirit to get in contact with him. I did a little searching around and found out how I could email him. I had a lot to share with him. I sent two emails, then waited to see what to do next. Then I heard he was gone. “Too little, too late.”

— Ted Goss from Lakewood, California (posted January 31, 2011 at 10:57pm)

Pastor Wendell was a mentor and a beacon for my father, Dan Fleming. The teachings and wisdom that Wendell imparted to my dad have been a blessing to our family and his ministry as a pastor. Even though it may have been from a distance, my dad was Wendell’s disciple. Now, I have made the choice to follow in my dad’s footsteps.

I consider Wendell one of my pastors. Even in death, his legacy is growing His church.

— Benjamin Fleming from United States (posted January 31, 2011 at 9:24pm)

What a great encouragement Pastor Wendell has been for this man from afar. Love, comfort and blessing from our family! Now, full revival through City Church, Seattle.

— Joseph from I have so appreciated Pastor Wendell from a far. (posted January 29, 2011 at 8:40am)

Pastor Wendell’s presence is seen in the Holy foundations of this Church, as was shown on one particular Sunday. We had asked an unsaved friend & his nine year old daughter to Church. She felt called to go up front after his sermon, but no one could see her among the adults, except for the very sensitive eyes and heart of Pastor Wendell, who came over to her and placed his hands on her head and gave her a blessing, which has changed her life, and her father was saved that Christmas eve.

— David & Serene Denton from Kirkland Campus (posted January 28, 2011 at 12:18am)

Thoughts of Pastor Wendell are synonymous with being strong and courageous. I recall several years ago when he was “stuck” Sunday after Sunday in Joshua chapter 1. He not only taught us the Word on how to be strong and courageous, we saw him live it day after day the past 6 years. He was an awesome, generous man. I’m thankful that I was able to sit and be blessed under his ministry. My thoughts and prayers are with your family…you are all so special and dear to me. With love, Rhoda

— Rhoda from City Church (Kirkland Campus) (posted January 26, 2011 at 6:21pm)

I am so thankful for Pastor Wendell, never having lived in the Seattle area I was not a member but my parents were and in my work with FamilyLife I had the chance to visit. I still miss him although I did not know him well on a personal level. May God continue to bless his family and church family.

— Tom Clifton, FamilyLife from Wenatchee (posted January 26, 2011 at 4:20pm)

Pastor Wendell’s Roots of Character & teaching on the Lord’s Prayer are 2 things that were influential in my spiritual growth. As an Intern in Boise, I was blessed with the opportunity to learn the Smiths were genuine in their character & passion for Jesus. I have appreciated the prayer updates for him over the years. But, more than anything, I am greatful that the Great Physician has set Wendell free; he’s finally healed! Praying the Holy Spirit brings comfort to the rest of the family.

— Sarah Curtright from Meridian, ID (posted January 25, 2011 at 7:13pm)

The first time I heard Wendell minister publicly was at a conference at Bible Temple in Portland in 1985. As he led worship I was immediately struck by his strong, confident leadership balanced with a tender David-like heart for God. Pastor Wendell maintained this wonderful balance through his years as pastor of The City Church. He will always remain in my mind and heart as a true example of a mighty warrior with a unique sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. I am grateful for his impact on my life.

— Marty Nystrom from Kirkland (posted January 25, 2011 at 2:55pm)

I thank God for allowing me to sit under Pastor Wendell’s teaching (and now Pastor Judah’s). He always made me laugh and gave a profound message with such simplicity that everyone could understand!

— Janice Schultz from Kirkland (posted January 25, 2011 at 1:25pm)

When Pastor Judah preaches, I remember what Pastor Wendell taught at Men’s Prayer Breakfast 10 years ago. He said, “Whatever you do, your sons will take it further. If you live a life serving God, your sons will go further serving God - if you live a life of sin, your sons will go further in sin. Whatever you do - your sons will take it further.” We are witnessing Pastor Wendell’s words being manifested in Pastor Judah - he is taking Pastor Wendell’s gifted preaching even further.

— Jim Grace from Kirkland Campus (posted January 23, 2011 at 2:01pm)

My life changed for ever the day I walked into the city church. Pastor Wendell you will forever be my Pastor. I left Seattle almost 2 years ago, and to this day the City church will be my beloved church. I love you pastor, you taught me how to pray, to worship and most of all to love Jesus with my heart, my soul and my every being. You will be missed, but only for a while and then we will meet again. I love you my pastor.

— Maryna Frederiksen from Sarasota, Florida (posted January 23, 2011 at 7:56am)

After trying to put into words many times and then deleting because the words seemed so inadequate, I will try to sum up my feelings. Pastor Wendell taught me how to live out my faith. He taught me that God is a good heavenly Father who has good for me, that I am blessed to be a blessing, and that I can trust in the Name of the Lord! I will miss him, but I will continue to learn from all he has taught me. His fruit remains!

— Cindy Dahl from Sammamish, Wa. (posted January 22, 2011 at 5:21pm)

Pastor Wendell shook my hand and thanked me after I was baptized at City Church in Kirkland in the spring of 2007. His sweet sincerity in the Lord blessed me that day and I am so thankful for his service to God at The City Church.

— Mike Stacy from US (posted January 21, 2011 at 12:52pm)

Although I live in Canada, I have been ministered to by Pastor Wendell through his messages online for the past 7 years. One of the things that has always stood out to me the most was his profound respect for women in ministry. He was such an encouragement in this area - not only in his words, but also it the testimonies of the amazing women in his life: Pastor Gini, Pastor Chelsea, and Pastor Wendy. He gave me a hope and a faith that God calls and graces women in the church. I am so grateful.

— Jeanine from Victoria, B.C. (posted January 20, 2011 at 8:56pm)

I have been listening to your podcasts and I bought Pastor Wendell’s Dragon Slayer DVD. I followed along about his health and heard his faith-filled messages on healing, which honestly challenged by beliefs on the issue. Yet he never wavered, in the midst of his own personal illness. I want to be like Pastor Wendell, to follow in his example as he followed Christ’s example. What a wonderful man, even though I only knew him from a distance… he touched my life. Thank you.

— Scott Neufeld from Vancouver, Canada (posted January 20, 2011 at 2:30pm)

I learned of the City Church in college a few years ago when a friend of mine shared a video of Pastor Judah Smith’s message “Dating Delilah” that he gave to Power 220 in Baton Rouge.

Ever since I’ve listened to messages from both Pastor Judah and Wendell. Their messages inspired me. I feel a loss as if I had known Pastor Wendell personally.

After watching the memorial celebration, I felt motivated to be the caliber of teacher, father, husband, and man of God as Wendell Smith. God Bless.

— André Thompson from Cary, North Carolina (posted January 20, 2011 at 1:22pm)

“My heart is sad, my heart is glad, what a strong fighter we had. A true man of Grace in the right place. Oh, let us all rejoice and be glad… ” Thank you Pastor Wendell, I look forward to seeing you again in God’s place of Grace…My heart is forever grateful to you, Alicia Palma

— Alicia Palma from City Church, D.C. (posted January 20, 2011 at 7:55am)

Pastor Wendell you will be missed! I was proud to call you my pastor. You fulfilled that role with grace, dignity, professionalism, and Godliness. You were truly God’s ambassador and represented the king and His kingdom well. I always felt like you listened to what I had to say and really cared. I loved your laugh and your easy going attitude. People come and go in life but you have made a real impact on me and you won’t be soon forgotten. I will miss you Wendell, my hero and my friend.

— Randy Breiwick (posted January 19, 2011 at 1:02pm)

We have been and will continue to be blessed by Pastor Wendell’s ministry. We trust that the lord will fill you with His peace and strength as you walk forward in the will of God.

— Pastor Doug Glada from West Kelowna BC Canada (posted January 19, 2011 at 1:00pm)

Pastor Wendell taught me how to believe in a good God, good Heavenly Father, good plan for my life, good about others and good about myself. He taught me how to live on purpose, forgive on purpose, love on purpose and believe on purpose. I am forever grateful for his life and his legacy.

— Victoria Flores from Sammamish, WA (posted January 19, 2011 at 11:55am)

May God bless Pastor Wendell Smith and his great family! He has been an inspiration to so many…

— Daniel Klammer from Vienna, Austria (posted January 19, 2011 at 12:13am)

I first heard Pastor Wendell in 1999 when I moved to Seattle for college. My faith was nearly dead. His passion & genuine devotion to Christ inspired a reignition of my faith.

Thank you to the Smith & Perez family for not just preaching the Word of God, but more importantly living it every day! You have profoundly touched me, even in hearing your testimonies of grief after Pastor Wendell’s passing.

— Jeremy F from Seattle, WA (posted January 18, 2011 at 11:44pm)

Because of Pastor Wendell, I was given a second chance at love. Although too long a story for this memorial, suffice it to say that through his encouraging sermons my City Church member wife believed she could still find a man who loved God and she found me on E-Harmony. After listening to one sermon I knew we were meant to always be together. I will always be indebted to his clear and loving teachings.

— Steve Hurst from Sun City West, AZ 85375 (posted January 18, 2011 at 10:20pm)

God bless him. May he rest in gentle piece.

— Shuttle Service Rider from http://www.american-shuttle.com (posted January 18, 2011 at 12:55pm)

i was reading Faith for Healing, pg 169 Wendell’s descent into the valley of the shadow of death. I know this place as the Lake of Despair. it has no shore, no life guard and no bottom. I kept downing and never dying. i fell into the Lake of Despair after my appendix ruptured when i was a boy. Pastor Wendell is the first person i know who knows what the Lake of Despair feels like.

— Rick Spear from Covington, Washington (posted January 18, 2011 at 7:14am)

I am so encourage and challenged by the legacy pastor Wendell left behind.Though he is not physically with us, He is still Preaching and Touching Lives.His Life and Love is a True Testimony of a true Follower of Christ

— Caroline from tacoma (posted January 18, 2011 at 3:31am)

Pastor Wendell is on my mind every day. Every time I hear a sermon, I think of his loving voice. Thank you Jesus for bringing such a phenomenal man to this earth, to show us your way. Wendell was an inspiration and a true follower of the Lord. I aspire to be like him.

— Josephine Baldwin from kirkland,wa (posted January 18, 2011 at 1:24am)

Seeing Pastor Wendell preach with such joy and love every sunday really brought me to reevaluate my life and commitment to God. His humor helped me to know that life with Jesus is fun!!!Thank you Pastor Wendell for being a light in my life.

— Julia D from seattle,wa (posted January 18, 2011 at 1:20am)

Thank you Pastor Wendell Smith. Your podcasts have seen me through some pretty dark times over the past year. I love that you did an entire series on healing even while you were believing for your own. Shortly after moving to Australia, Jadon, my 7 year old son began listening to your podcasts too, which has seen him through some hard times as well! God’s Word through you has reached across the earth, as well as across the generations! Thank you!!

— Heather Berg from Brisbane, Australia (posted January 17, 2011 at 9:56pm)

It is difficult to capsulize what this man, my pastor for seventeen years, meant to me; however, after reading a great number of comments from fellow believers here, it is clear that we knew what we had.

— Sally Grommon from Issaquah, Washington (posted January 17, 2011 at 9:13pm)

We have been truly blessed by Pastor Wendell’s life. He has taught us to love more,believe more, give more and laugh more. He has inspired and pushed us to higher levels in Christ. He has been the encouragement we needed time after time. We are truly greatful for his life and legacy.

— Stephen and April Macdonald from Bellevue,Wa (posted January 17, 2011 at 4:19pm)

Greetings from across the sea ,from the uttermost parts of the earth we express our sympathy to you Gini and your family .I well remember your visit to NZ and your ministry in Palmerston North with John Walton and the New Life Church leaders! Wendell always inspired us with his life and ministry .Our love to all Max and Sandra Palmer

— Max Palmer from New Zealand (posted January 17, 2011 at 11:55am)

When I think of Pastor Wendell, the word “integrity” comes to mind. In our culture, it is refreshing & encouraging to have an example of a life lived with faith & righteousness. I will always remember Wendell’s laugh as he got a download from the Holy Spirit during his messages. And his “clapclap* Listen to your pastor” before he exhorted us. I praise God that He led us to The City Church and allowed me to be in the flock of such a great leader.

— Beth Napoli from Woodinville, WA (posted January 16, 2011 at 12:11pm)

I loved it the way Pastor Wendell always said in every sermon how good God is and he had a great sense of humor.

He wasn’t around the office much since I came on staff, but I remember two times distinctly. We were coming out of staff prayer and he was hugging everyone. I told him I had a cold the week before, and he said “give me a hug anyway”. And another time I was walking in the hall past his office door and he came out and gave hugs to everyone. He loved people.

— Jan Slansky from Kirkland, WA (posted January 16, 2011 at 9:52am)

Although I am only a young teenager in Australia it seems that Pastor Wendell has impacted my life incredibly. The ministry and church that he established through faith has seen me listen to hundreds of podcasts and has helped me grow my faith into a personal and life long relationship with Jesus. Although I am thousands of miles away, because of one mans work I feel as though I am part of church that is on the other side of the world. I can not wait to meet him in heaven!

— Nicholas Page from Sydney, Australia (posted January 16, 2011 at 12:16am)

We first heard Pastor Wendell speak when we visited Bible Temple in the early 80’s. He has impacted our lives ever since. At MFI we always looked forward to him preaching. The scriptures from memory would just keep rolling off his tongue. The reason we gave the Alderwood campus and Church to Pastor Wendell and City Church (besides God told us to) was because we knew it would be used to build the Kingdom of God. That is what Pastor Wendell has always done.

— John & Rhonda Small from Bothell (posted January 15, 2011 at 2:32am)

Ps. Wendell and the City Church helped IFGF GISI Church (Indonesian students mostly) when we just started back in 1993. The City Church generously let us use the facility @ Crossroad and @ Kirkland till we got our own place in 1998. In the midst of his busy schedule Ps. Wendell preached or sent his leaders to preach and share in our church from time to time. Me and family moved back to Indonesia in 2001 and one of our favorite books is still, GREAT FAITH. Thank you Pastor, thank you City Church.

— Sammy Hartanto from Bandung, Indonesia (posted January 14, 2011 at 10:39pm)

In 1996, as a new believer, I joined City Church-the best decision I have ever made. Thank you P Wendell & Gini for providing me with the foundation for my entire Christian life. P Wendell was a spiritual father figure to me, he taught me to believe in a GOOD heavenly father! Thank you both for your example of love, humor, wisdom, faith & grace no matter the cost or the circumstance. P Gini-your leadership, spirit of excellence & courage inspire me to become the woman God has called me to be.

— Christine Morgan from Bellevue, WA & Belltown Campus (posted January 14, 2011 at 4:05pm)

Watching “The how to’s of church ministry” while looking in “sacred events” by P.Wendell… I will always be gleaning from my hero. Much of what I do in ministry is because of him mentoring me from afar - thank you Pastor Wendell

— Matthew Schlesinger from Roseburg OR (posted January 14, 2011 at 3:41pm)

Pastor Wendell imparted so much blessing: Father of the faith-lead me to rededication of Jesus as my LORD. Created my (our) home away form heaven with Pastor Gini: surrounded with the family of annointed leadership who never cease to inspire and change me. Sheperd-impartation of faith (Rom 10:17,Jas 2:17 and Jhn 10:11). I am forever mindful of Pastor Wendells’ Legacy. I am Blessed by the Lord and I live to be a Blessing …

— Marcia Neumeyer Seaman from Bellevue,Wa (posted January 14, 2011 at 12:57pm)

I came across this passage in Proverbs this morning “A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability and goodness] to his children’s children…” It made me think of Pastor Wendell. That’s exactly what he did!

— Kee Smith from Renton, WA (posted January 14, 2011 at 5:26am)

Finally, for my third comment: after 61+ yrs of life, I finally have my one true hero on earth. If this Shining Light of Grace can touch 10s of thousands with The Word and Faith and Love, I should surely be able to touch 3 or 4 with some semblance of Pastor’s Wendell’s shimmering grace. Thank you, Pastor Wendell, for showing us the reason we are on this earth.

— Randy Milne from Kirkland (posted January 14, 2011 at 4:56am)

Exactly five years ago tonight, my beautiful bride and I had the honor of Pastor Wendell marrying us! We’ll always cherish that night. Thank you Pastor Wendell!

— Beau & Enessa Olivas from Issaquah (posted January 13, 2011 at 8:16pm)

Hi! Pastor Wendell inspired me to look at life through Jesus’s eyes, no matter WHAT situation I was in! I have struggled with a chronic health issue since I was young and most often, I was not able to go to church. I purchased his CD series and listened to them OVER & OVERI Not only to hear his encouragement for faith to persevere, but also just to hear his incredible humor and laugh! I know he is in heaven right now making the angels laugh!! What a gift he was and will continue to be!

— Sue Fowler from Sammamish WA (posted January 13, 2011 at 6:36pm)

Dear Gini and family, Blessings of peace and comfort to you all at this most difficult time. I have never met you, nor did I have the privilege of knowing Pastor Wendell.I live in a small town in the middle of Montana—I am a widow with 2 teenagers and I was sent Gini’s cd and book”Jesus Wept”. Gini, your word’s have spoken to my spirit and resonated with my heart.In the midst of your very fresh-raw grief, you are blessing others and encouraging others faith with your testimony–Thank You!

— Celeste Marie Kennedy from US (posted January 13, 2011 at 6:07pm)

This past Saturday night my youngest son Isaac came out of City Kids excited to read his Bible. We were in the book store and he asked to get a new Bible. Later that evening he had his Bible open and he wanted to mark his favorite stories. I showed him the pictures of Pastor Wendell’s prayer cards. He started drawing pictures and writing prayers on his own cards. Each night this week he gets his Bible out and reads them. Another generation following Pastor Wendell’s lead.

— Lara Germino from Bellevue (posted January 13, 2011 at 3:47pm)

Our prayers are with Pastor Gini and the entire Smith clan as they grieve the loss of their husband, father, brother, son, grandpa etc. and also with the congregation of people that have walked under Pastor Wendell and Gini’s loving care.

Pastor Wendell touched so many lives, and his influence can and will still be felt for generations to come.It’s time for the next generation to run with the same passion and fervor he had.Guess we all better put our running shoes on!

— Sarah Mitchell from Cochrane, AB (posted January 13, 2011 at 1:04pm)

We truly appreciate Pastor Wendell, his family, and his ministry. Thru his teaching I’ve embraced NOW truths such as Prosperity with a Purpose and Presbitery… big steps away from a traditional background. We’ll remember him fondly, looking forward to seeing him again… soon after we see Jesus face to face. God Bless, Rob and Molly Martin

— Rob and Molly Martin from Grimshaw, AB (posted January 13, 2011 at 12:38pm)

Continuing 2 Pet 1:15 “So I will work hard to make these things clear to you. I want you to remember then long after I am gone.” (NLT)

You taught us clearly, Pastor Wendell. We will not forget!

— Jill Pope from Seattle, Wa. (posted January 13, 2011 at 11:34am)

Wendell was a man’s man. He was noble, admirable and trustworthy and a role model of impeccable character. Wendell was gracious, optimistic, calm and at peace within himself and those around him. Despite his high rank, he was always nonthreatening and comfortable to be with. It was a true privilege to know him and spend time with him. Wendell was the type of man you wanted to see more of, get to know better and to have as your lifelong companion and friend. To know him was to love him.

— David Buscher from Redmond, WA (posted January 13, 2011 at 11:34am)

Pastor Wendell was amazing at applying his teaching in practical ways. In his prayer class “On Earth As It Is In Heaven” he began praying for the nations at the end of the session. I carry that CD in my car. When I am burdened for what is going on in the world, I put the CD on and Pastor and I “pray together for the nations.” His fervency and faith lift my spirits as I hear him pray.

— Jan Yokers from Normandy Park, WA (posted January 13, 2011 at 11:33am)

Today, 2 Pet 1:13 reminds me of Pastor Wendell. “I believe I should keep on reminding you of these things as long as I live.” (NLT) Pastor Wendell’s faith and life are still speaking.

— Jill Pope from Seattle, Wa. (posted January 13, 2011 at 11:26am)

I really loved and still love pastor Wendell Smith. I was always encouraged by his messages. I am very thankful for everything he has done. Pastor, Arugatou.

— Aiko from Japan (posted January 13, 2011 at 5:50am)

Pastor Wendell was a gracious man in every way and I am very grateful for having known him. We parted ways on good terms and I have always carried him in my heart and prayers ever since. I came to The City a completely broken man in every way and left changed forever and with an overflowing abundance of blessings. Although inadequate in every way, all I can say to the Smith family during this time is thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am forever grateful for the kindness you showed me.

— Patrick Sheard from U.S. Embassy Seoul Korea (posted January 13, 2011 at 2:54am)

Thank you Pastor Wendell for teaching me how to pray, be a good father and husband! I’m so blessed to have been able to call you my Pastor!

— Beau Olivas from Kirkland (posted January 13, 2011 at 1:29am)

Willyhe memorial service be shown again,or available o. Dvd

— Rowena Blumenschein from Coeur de Alene, Idaho/praire Ave.christian center, (posted January 12, 2011 at 11:01pm)

Wendell and Gini, were both part of my journey to intercessory prayer. We met though New Hope church here in Pendleton 15 or more years ago(Pastor Larry Booth) and City Bible in Portland. My “Blessings” to Gini and thier children and may the trail blazer Wendell was always make your “Way” easier. I know he made my way easier and showed the way. Celebrate the great man he is in the Lord. Know he touched lives everywhere he went! God Bless You, My love to Gini, Cheryl

— Cheryl Stewart from Pendleton, OR (posted January 12, 2011 at 1:15pm)

It was our privilege to have pastor Wendell in our home in June 2007. His powerful prayer reached into the NICU of UCLA Medical Center and a preemie(20oz)baby born into our family was healed of two stage 3 brain bleeds! We thought the very walls of our home would shake as he prayed that evening, and the spirit of God was truly present. He was a beautiful, elegent, man of God!

— Peter and Jan Houck from Avila Beach, California (posted January 12, 2011 at 11:28am)

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