Letter from your Pastor;

When I reflect on where life has led me, I can only conclude that God has been at work every step of the way. In just our first few weeks here in Camden, our family has already experienced the energy, compassion, and servant-hearted spirit that defines this congregation. The hymn, "Surely the Presence of the Lord Is in This Place," truly captures what we have felt since arriving. As we continue getting to know new faces and becoming familiar with our new community, we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and kindness shown to us. While I could list countless acts of generosity, I would inevitably leave someone out. Please know that every expression of encouragement, hospitality, and support has been deeply appreciated and has made this transition much easier for our family.

 

One of the things that has impressed me most is the many ways our church serves the Camden community. If you stopped by the Great Hall on Tuesday, you likely noticed the bloodmobile parked outside and the steady stream of cars throughout the day. C.A.D.C. and Entergy hosted their utility assistance program in our facility, alongside several community organizations offering additional resources to those in need. Our food pantry also served 163 families this week—a remarkable number, as Tate shared with me. We are grateful for the dedicated volunteers whose faithful service allows this ministry to run so smoothly each week. Speaking of the food pantry, we also received our first new glass-front freezer this past week. If you have not visited the Wesley Building recently, I encourage you to stop by and see all that is happening. If you run into Tate, I am certain he would be happy to share his excitement about the bright future of this ministry and the opportunities it creates to better serve our neighbors.

 

I have also come to appreciate the Round Robin services that bring our area churches together. Last Sunday evening, I had the privilege of speaking at the service in Smackover, where Reverend Robin Roark shared that more than 100 people were in attendance. Thank you to everyone who came—I enjoyed seeing so many familiar faces and felt greatly encouraged by your support. The Round Robin services continue this Sunday in Norphlet, where Reverend Ron Grigsby will be speaking.

 

Last week's sermon focused on becoming good soil for God's work, and I can honestly say there is an abundance of good soil here at Camden First United Methodist Church. The opportunities for growth and ministry are tremendous. This Sunday, we will continue that conversation as we explore what it means to be the wheat. I hope you will join us. We will also recognize and pray over our teachers during our Blessing of the Teachers as they prepare for the new school year.

A few updates from the parsonage: the kitchen remodel continues to make great progress. Our goal is to have the flooring completed and the new stove installed this week. Thank you to everyone who has participated in the meal train. Your generosity has kept us well-fed while we wait for the opportunity to cook in our new kitchen, and we are truly grateful.

 

As we prepare for the start of a new school year, there are many opportunities to serve and connect. The Blessing of the Backpacks is one of my favorite traditions and is only a week away. Be sure to mark your calendars for the Senior Breakfast, and don't forget about the upcoming Round Robin service as well.

 

My prayers remain with each of you. Thank you for welcoming our family so warmly and for being the hands and feet of Christ in this community.



Have a blessed week,

Ryan