Published: July 03, 2008 04:36 pm            

Out 49 & Beyond - July 2, 2008

“It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists and some to be pastors and teachers. To prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” (Ephesians 4:11 -12 NIV)



The Empire Circuit, which consists of Piney Ridge, Pleasant Hill and Stout Chapel United Methodist Churches, held a recent Pastor Appreciation Service for the Rev. James Curry.

After 46 years in the ministry, the Rev. Curry retired in 2004. However, the retirement only lasted a year. God had other plans for him. The Empire Circuit was a flock in need of a shepherd. The Rev. Curry answered the call and came out of retirement to pastor the three churches.

During the service, and in talking with members since the appreciation service, there were so many accolades I couldn’t write fast enough to get them all.

One person compared him to the 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians: “He has shown love since he has been here, he is patient and kind.”

“I admire his ability to preach out of the Bible and stay in the Bible and apply it to everyday life,” another member said.

Several mentioned the fact that he came out of retirement to take on not one but three churches.

“He’s very devoted to building up the church, especially the youth, he is concerned with all aspects of their lives, spiritual and educational.”

One of the men said, “He’s been an inspiration to me. I can see how much he loves preaching, and I can see the love of God in him.”

“He’s been an inspiration to me too,” another member joined in. “He believes in having everything in order. He believes in stretching yourself to the limit in order for growth.”

One of the members reminded his brothers and sisters in Christ to “encourage the pastor, express appreciation in writing, don’t criticize him, pray for him and don’t compare him with other pastors.”

“Being a leader is not easy,” another said, “You can’t please everybody, just preach the word, do what’s right and move on.”

I asked the Rev. Curry how it felt to come out of retirement.

“Overall I’m enjoying it, he said, I have some health issues but I’m keeping them under control. It really was a blessing to be called back.”

At the close of the Appreciation Service I remember the Rev. Curry saying, “There is only one life, it will soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.”

We would all do well to remember that.



Pattye Harris of Ramseur shares news of interest from N.C. 49, the Empire Charge area and beyond. She can be reached at (336) 824-8198 and invites readers to call her with information they would like to share.

        

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