His first weekend on the job, the new Lead Pastor of First Alliance Church, Scott Weatherford, exudes the warmth of Florida sunshine.  His towering frame surfs across the spacious lobby, catches the next surge of people.  He shakes hands, hugs willing recipients and exchanges introductions.

"Canadians are very friendly and warm," said Weatherford. "I found it delightful.  Everybody we’ve dealt with has been gracious and accommodating." The arrival of 51-year-old Weatherford signals a shift in church leadership initiated by existing Senior Pastor Terry Young and endorsed by the Elders’ Board. Young will remain on staff as Teaching Pastor. Weatherford will provide vision for First Alliance, lead the staff, engage the congregation to reach out into the Calgary community and continue strong support of missions work throughout the world. Weatherford looks forward to leading change. "This is a great church," he said. "It’s been well led for many years. I’m honored to be a part of that process."

A graduate of New Orleans Theological Seminary, Weatherford planted churches and pastored for 28 years in Texas and Florida.  Weatherford also founded a leadership training company to equip corporate and church leaders.  He is a gifted musician and speaker. He will preach occasionally at First Alliance.

While his humorous quips and southern charm endear him immediately to people, Weatherford also knows how to set boundaries.

"If you have a suggestion for solving a problem," he coached his congregants, "I’d love to hear from you.  But if you don’t have a solution to offer, then hush. That’s just whining."

Pastor Weatherford and his wife, Tara, leave behind two university-age children in Florida.  The call of God to move to Calgary makes them first-time empty nesters, but they have no regrets.

"Sure we miss our kids, but we feel this is where we’re supposed to be," Weatherford remarked.  "When we said ‘Lord, I’m yours’, it didn’t come with a geographical limit."

"I love this church," he said as he closed his first service on May 24, "and I love this city.  Let’s ask God what He wants to do in and for and through us.  Are you in?  Be fully committed.  Together, we can love this city and make a difference."