“I feel excited and I’m so thankful for the Lord,” Keptot said.
Members of the church community were present to witness the event, which was celebrated with Christmas carols and dinner.
The church service began at 3 p.m. at the church on Navy Hill with David Leskosek, church board member, as master of ceremonies.
“Joy to the Word” was the opening song, which was followed by the opening prayer led by Deacon Cornelius Taro. Leskosek delivered the opening remarks.
Part of the program was a presentation titled “Testify to Love” by the Saipan-Palau Evangelical Church youth.
The Maranatha Fellowship, the Chuukese Choir and the church youth also performed song numbers.
It was the first time that a pastor was ordained at the church, which was dedicated in 1987.
“Today we rejoice as we see the first pastor ordained here,” said Leskosek.
Rev. Hubert E. Charles from the church headquarters in Palau was also present.
He noted that Keptot had faced many challenges and that he was happy to see him called to the Lord’s service and ordained.
Keptot was teary-eyed, saying he wished his mother and father were there to witness his ordination.
He thanked his wife Lily and the rest of his family for their love and support.
“Without Christ I cannot do anything,” he said. “In order for me to accomplish what God has planned for me I have to depend on Him through prayers and reading His words and trusting in Him. I think that’s the most important thing that I need to know. I have to trust the Lord for whatever God is calling me to do in the future.”
