|
BUTLER — He’s heard all the references before.
He doesn’t drive a gold Pontiac, he isn’t a private investigator, and he doesn’t wear a cowboy hat.
James “Jamie” Garner shares a name with the popular television and film actor, but that’s where the similarities end.
A Huntington native, Garner became pastor at Christian Assembly of God Church east of Butler in December.
Garner has served in various facets at the church, from being part of the congregation to board member, treasurer, Sunday school teacher and worship team leader.
When his father-in-law, Matthew Snodderly, retired, Garner stepped in to lead the congregation.
“It’s been as smooth a transition as it could have been,” Garner said. “It’s been very seamless.”
While membership stands at 25, average attendance is between 50-60 each week.
“One thing we’re really excited about is our outreach ministry,” Garner said.
“Saturday Night Alive” began June 6 with services in South Side Park, which are open to the public.
“The church is the body of Christ,” Garner explained. “It’s a moving, flowing thing.
“We want to get out and show them what church is supposed to be. The congregation feels like I do, that we have to take the message to the people instead of waiting for them to come to you.”
Sunday school begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by worship at 10:30 a.m. and evening service at 6 p.m. Bible study takes place Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., for adults and children.
The church’s youth group, “Static,” which stands for Serving Together As Teenagers In Christ, meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
Saturday Night Alive takes place at 7 p.m. through August.
Garner graduated from Huntington College in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in business management. He received his pastoral credentials from the Indiana District of Assemblies of God in 2008.
Garner and his wife, Teresa, have one son, Dominic.
|
