Over the next several weeks, I will write about some of my most cherished moments as a pastor in the churches where I served. I first served the First United Methodist Church of Truth or Consequences. I told my colleagues that everyone beginning their ministry needed an experience like I did in T or C (an abbreviated version of Truth or Consequences). The town was named Hot Springs, but that is another story.

     When I started serving FUMC Truth or Consequences as their pastor in 2009, the church worshipped approximately 40 people on an average Sunday. The former pastor, David Humphrey, rescued the struggling church from the brink of closing its doors. He did a fantastic job while he served as pastor, preparing the congregation for a hopeful future. I emulate his care for the souls of the parish members to this day in my ministry.

     When my family arrived to begin our ministry, we were embraced by the congregation, an open and affirming community. I recall my first Sunday at the church, leading worship and sharing a potluck luncheon immediately after the service. Their warm welcome filled me with a sense of belonging and acceptance. It was a moment of overwhelming love and self-doubt as I questioned if I had what it took to be the pastor the parish needed to move forward.

     In my second year, the church started growing. I conducted a community choir, and several of those who participated in the music began to ask about my faith and where I stood on specific issues. My statement always included, “We accept everybody. Who am I to turn anyone away from worshiping God? To deny anyone entry into the kingdom goes against what I believe to be one of the deepest core values of the Christian faith.” My reply opened the door to a new generation of active church members.

     When I added music to the church’s life, we found many souls who felt abandoned now working in ministry together. We had a handbell choir, chancel choir, and many other opportunities to hear solo voices. The ministry thrilled my soul as I witnessed a vital church in the community worship in a way that proved liberating and free. I looked at the faces of the congregation, many of whom had opposing religious and political ideologies but came together to worship our Amazing God.

     Arguably, the most significant gift the church bestowed upon me was the confidence that I had indeed answered my call to Ordained Ministry. The members continued to affirm my ministry and offer unwavering support as I continued my appointment to FUMC T or C. I witnessed a remarkable transformation over the three years I served the church. Now brimming with wisdom and the knowledge of God’s love, the parish eagerly shared the message with the city, offering hospitality to all who crossed the threshold. It was a testament to the power of faith and community and filled me with immense pride and inspiration.

     On the wall in my church office hangs a wonderful picture the congregation gave me as I ended my time at FUMC T or C. The drawing is of two churches sitting side by side. One church has a sign reading “We Care About You.” The church to the right is FUMC T or C, and the sign outside reads. “Yeah, but we’ve got better music.” Members of the Bell and Chancel Choirs framed the cartoon with gratitude signatures along the border of the marvelous picture. I responded, “I cannot ever thank the incredible people who loved me well in this, my very first appointment.” May God’s richest blessings be with this incredible church’s mighty men and women!”