CHICAGO, IL (February 17, 2011) – Kidney transplant surgery began at 8:30 this morning for Jerome Nelson, superintendent of the Central Conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church.

Until a week ago, doctors were not certain whether or not he would qualify for the surgery, a family spokesperson explained. However, he was cleared for surgery and a donor became available.

Those interested in sending emails of encouragement and prayer may do so using the Central Conference office email address – all expressions will be forwarded to Nelson.

The family requests that everyone be in prayer not only for Nelson, but also for the donor.

Covenant News Service will publish more information as it becomes available.