I believe that one of the greatest privileges that God gave to mankind is the privilege of choice. A person does not get to choose their mom, dad, brothers or sisters, the color of their hair, the size of their nose, or their body type. They do however get to chose whether or not they want to embrace a relationship with Christ. There were two thieves that were crucified with Christ. One of them made a choice to curse Jesus, to take His name in vain, and he ultimately lost the opportunity to make the right choice. Instead he chose to turn his back on Him. The story for the other thief was very vastly different. Instead, he was repentant, sorrowful and begged for Christ’s mercy. He made the right choice that day and as a result, Jesus said today you’ll be with Me in paradise.

    I believe that we’re living in the end time and that Jesus’ return is very soon. It is crucial for all of us to make the right choice, to make Christ our Savior, to embrace what Joshua said in Joshua 24:15, “…But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”

God bless you in your decision.

Pastor Glenn Murphy
Grace UPC

Fellowship Baptist Church, located at 14512 Greenwell Springs Road, is pleased to announce they have called Bro. Paul Pearson as their pastor.  Bro. Paul and his wife Joyce are both Louisiana natives and, for 37 years, have been partners in the ministry.  After one year at LA Tech, he enlisted in the marines, and, after four years of service, he returned to complete his degree at Louisiana College.  He then obtained his Master of Divinity at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.  Bro. Paul has a great love of people and a vision for outreach, missions and growth.  He is very excited about the potential the fast-growing City of Central offers.  Please join us on July 10th for Bro. Paul's first Sunday as our new pastor.

Bro. Paul & wife Joyce Pearson

By DeeDee Dupree

    Equally talented as well as endearing, Jeremy Dailey shines and radiates on stage each Sunday at GSBC. He leads the praise and worship, always with a smile and sometimes with a very red face as he belts out songs of praise alongside the GSBC Choir and Orchestra.   
    He was born (as a twin) in Indianapolis, Indiana in the year 1975. Growing up surrounded by music, he learned to play the drums at the age of nine and knew almost immediately God had a specific plan for his life.
    He attended a small Christian college in Texas before coming to Louisiana where he began teaching at a small Christian school. He eventually became Principal and led worship and organized a contemporary Christian band at the parent-church.
    The band “Rezzonate”, filled with talented musicians, followed God’s plan and ministered at many youth events. “It was a special time,” Jeremy stated, reflecting on his four years with the band. 
    After leaving the small church and band, Jeremy found himself selling cars and becoming more and more disenchanted with his current situation.  He was visiting different churches, but hadn’t found that one he embraced whole-heartedly. These were tumultuous times, but through circumstance and personal hardship, God led him to GSBC. At first, he was reluctant to commit to anything on a permanent basis.  He knew the time and commitment that went into that. However, after spending time with the members of GSBC, he could tell this was a group of people he wanted to be associated with.  “They were so genuine.  Honestly, these people are the real deal.”  As he spoke of his journey to GSBC, his eyes teared up, but the beaming smile never faltered. “I knew this is where God wanted me to be.”
    Shortly after hurricane Katrina, Jeremy began playing drums on Sunday mornings. It wasn’t long until his heart grew heavier, wanting more and more to be a part of that ministry. He had not realized the enormity and powerful impact the music ministry of GSBC was having on the community.  Not long after, he was informed of an opening in the student ministry. He became the student pastor at GSBC and worked in that capacity for two years.  God eventually opened the door for him to begin leading worship, where he is now the Worship Pastor.
    He states that each day spending time with the staff and members of the church, he is in awe.  “I see Jesus through these people in a way that I have never experienced before.”

    Q & A:  What do you want the residents of the Central community to know about you or GSBC?
I would love the community to realize first of all that we were created to worship God and bring him pleasure. Secondly, worship is something you do daily, not just on Sundays. Let God reveal Himself to you. Worship is the one thing that will bring true fulfillment in one’s life. I am by no means perfect; I’ve had my share of personal struggles and adversity. And like everyone, I’ve made poor decisions that have led to things in my past I’m not proud of, but God sees beyond that. We serve and worship a loving, forgiving God. He is worthy of our praise.

    Describe the pastor of GSBC, Dr. Dennis Terry.
He is an awesome, awesome man.  He is a great Pastor.  I truly enjoy hearing him minister.

    You were married in 2008 to Debra, can you tell me a little about her?
(Before answering, a huge smile covered his face.  He looked over his shoulder at a picture of his wife on the shelf behind him.) 
She defines Beauty, both inside and out.  She is best described by Proverbs 31, a virtuous woman. I’ve been blessed having her in my life.

    There is a new addition to your family, isn’t there?
My beautiful daughter, Zoe, was born on April 7th.  My son, Mason, loves having a baby sister. We are blessed.

    Wrapping up the interview, I asked Jeremy if there was anything else he wanted to share with central residents about GSBC, “fellowship of excitement” and he humbly answered, “As a church, as a leader in the church, I encourage everyone to stay focused on what we are here for.  Don’t look to your neighbor or the faults of others, Look to God, that’s what matters.  We see things everyday, but sometimes overlook the beauty that is right in front of us.  Although singing and attending church is part of worship, it’s not the beginning or end of it. Worship is a lifestyle of constantly responding to God’s revelation. Be open and receive what God has for you. I love GSBC and I love the Central Community.  We are growing and rapidly expanding, but somehow, Central has retained its small town values and community feeling. I just love it.”

    GSBC has an open door policy. If you, or anyone you know, needs to talk or be ministered too, just call or stop by. 

    Please join Jeremy and GSBC Sunday, July 3rd for the Worship Service.  “Freedom Sunday” will feature:
9:15 am Morning Fellowship (serving donuts and coffee)
10 am Worship Service
12 pm Afternoon Picnic (hamburgers and hotdogs served in the gym)
For more information call: 225-261-2246 or visit: www.gsbc.com

    Dads we have a job to do. It’s the most important job that we will ever do. It’s not a job that pays money, offers opportunity for advancement, or provides a tangible retirement but it is the most important any way – it’s the job of being a father.

    What do we do as a father?

   First, we love our children’s mother. Our children will be no more secure than what they experience by seeing us care for their mother, acting gently toward her, and being close at home not away all the time. They will honor her to the degree that they see us honor her.

   Second, we laugh with our family. We don’t have to be a clown or comedian but we are to be joyful. Our family’s emotional equilibrium will come mostly from us as Dads. So part of our job is to have fun with our wife and kids.

   Third, we lead our family. That’s not dictating but leading – using our influence and authority to guide our family in the right direction. There is no more true direction to guide one’s family than toward Jesus Christ. So our job includes praying with them, reading the Bible with them, and worshipping with them.

    Not much pay for doing the job, but incredible rewards. No real advancement, but great fulfillment. And we never get to retire from the job; but why would we want to?

Jeff Stanfill
Covenant Community Church

Submitted by Theda Guarino

Magnolia United Methodist Church Vacation Bible School Presents:  Hometown Nazareth:  Where Jesus Was a Kid  Monday, June 27- Wednesday, June 29
                     Time:  9:00 AM-12:00 PM
                     Location:  16024 Greenwell Springs Road, Greenwell Springs, LA
                     Preregistration can be done by calling the church office weekdays from 9 AM-12 PM @ 261-2789.

Submitted by Lynette Shaffett

The St. Alphonsus youth group will be hosting a garage sale in the Family Center on Friday July 8th and Saturday July 9th from 7:00am-2:00pm.  Donations are being accepted. Items can be dropped off at the youth office during office hours or at the Family Center until 7:00pm on Thursday, July 7th. (No clothing please.)

Grace United Pentecostal Church Sunday School Ministry invites everyone to come receive a car wash on Saturday, June 18th from 10 AM – 2 PM. The car wash is no charge but donations are appreciated and will benefit the Sunday School Ministry.

1 Tim 6:6, "Now godliness with contentment is great gain."  (NKJ)

    In The Book of Esther there is a story about a man named Haman who had been promoted to the highest position in the kingdom, second in command only to the King!  Every one paid him homage except for one man, Mordecai, the queen’s uncle. 

    Haman had everything a man could possibly want but one man wouldn't bow down to him and his quest to get rid of this one man was his final undoing!  So many times we allow a single offense or something someone has said or done overshadow all the good that is happening in our lives.  We become obsessed by the one thing, the one person, the one offense!  We should learn to be content with all the good things and quit focusing on the one bad thing or in the end it will be our own undoing!!

Donnie Shaffer
Pastor – Central Church

By Vicki Whittington

    Where does one begin to reflect on the memories, challenges and blessings accumulated over a forty-year period?  And, where did the 40 years go so quickly?

    For Fr. Mike Moroney of St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church, he can summarize his pastoral journey quite quickly.  The blessings he gained from his spiritual travels encompassed working with all types of people, young, old, men, women, friends, family, and parishioners.  Upon revisiting and reconnecting with many of these folks, he is quick to say how very special it is to hear some of them credit a particular success story to some words of wisdom he shared with them or how a counseling session or prayerful discernment with them made a positive impact on their lives.  Fr. Mike truly believes the greatest gift he received over this period of time is the unending generosity of people willing to share their time, talent and financial resources in their church life.

    When Fr. Mike was only 21 years of age, he entered seminary knowing he probably would not serve in his beloved Ireland.  A group of bishops from the United States, including Fr. Stanley Ott who was then the chancellor of the Diocese, traveled there to recruit young men to relocate to the United States, where the shortage of priests was already anticipated. Bishop Tracy, the first for the Diocese of Baton Rouge, impressed Fr. Mike with his excitement and enthusiasm relative to the Vatican Council.  It was his contagious spirit of excitement that hooked Fr. Mike and played a deciding factor in his coming to Louisiana.  The fact that Louisiana was a constant reminder of home in that the folks were friendly, enjoyed eating, and rivaled all when it came to celebrations was also a big help in his adjustment to his new home. Being so far away from his immediate family and not having the opportunity to spend special occasions and holidays with them has not dampened his spirits because he has been blessed with many friends who are like family to him, so he has never felt that he was missing that special family bond.

    Being ordained in the early life of Vatican II, Fr. Mike has seen many lay ministries developed that touched many lives in all walks of life.  It’s no secret, for example, that Fr. Mike is very comfortable around our young folks. While at St. Charles during the late 1970’s, he was also very much involved at Redemptorist High School.  He was campus co-chaplain for 12 years, guidance counselor, and was part of the team that implemented the retreat program for students that is still a viable part of the school today.  Students and faculty return from this event with a new fervor for God, family, and life. When asked what was so unique about working with these impressionable young men and women his response was:  “Young persons, when only five miles from home experience differences in various aspects of their lives.  Things change.  It is renewing and refreshing for kids to have positive experiences.  The rewards are the potential to make a difference in their lives.”

    Fr. Mike did not personally think he’d made differences in the lives of young folks, until years after sharing insight, wisdom and every day conversations with them, they returned to tell him of the positive impact he’d had on them.  He truly believes that small things can make a big difference in their lives, and we should never underestimate the time spent with them nor the effect and power our presence has on them.  With new and unique challenges in our world today, one small comment, a private conversation, or just a gentle gesture may make a positive difference in the life of someone who otherwise would stray from the straight and narrow path.

Working with those of other faith traditions is nothing new for Fr. Mike.  For over 30 years, he has been the Ecumenical Office for the Diocese of Baton Rouge.   He serves on the Louisiana Interchurch Conference which is a statewide group of persons from many faith traditions comprised of bishops or their respective delegates. Fr. Mike has also been privileged to lead and participate in the prayer service for the invocation of Louisiana governors, representatives, and senators at St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

Fr. Mike is particularly proud of the efforts surrounding our local Central City Thanksgiving Service.  Implemented three years ago, the first service was held here at St. Alphonsus.  Not only is it one of the most well attended services Fr. Mike has witnessed, but the music, scripture, and message delivered provide a “united effort” on the part of 16 local churches involved.  Family life, values that are important to all of us no matter what faith we practice, and respect for life are common ideals we all treasure.  When we embrace these things cherished by many, faith tradition divisions vanish and we all become one body in Christ.

    Another aspect of the ecumenical efforts here in Central is the Central Pastor’s Association.  This group of clergymen meets on a monthly basis.  The meetings are open to all churches in Central and surrounding areas.  There are several faith traditions represented and the bottom line is friendships are formed, differences are understood, and similarities are appreciated.  The annual Ecumenical Prayer Service is another example of building the community on multi-faceted levels.  Attendance at this event ties our entire Central community together, all religions, all socio-economic groups, all God’s people. While these rewards are wonderful, Fr. Mike believes the best is realizing the true richness in all faith traditions, no matter how similar or different from one’s own.  His sincere prayer is that all would be one at the table of the Lord.

    Fr. Mike’s journey has taken him to various settings in South Louisiana.  He began his spiritual journey in New Roads at St. Mary’s Parish.  At St. Isidore, which was Fr. Mike’s first pastoral assignment, he spent 9 ½ wonderful years in a parish which was a delight with its “hands on” way of doing so many things.  From here, he moved to Our Lady of Mercy Parish where he had many great memories and worked with many great people.  His next trek took him to St. Charles here in Baton Rouge where he served as Assistant Pastor.    Following his service there, he moved to St. Thomas More.  Upon being re-assigned to St. Alphonsus, Fr. Mike says it was like “coming back home

    Since coming to St. Alphonsus, Fr. Mike has quickly put his finger on the pulse of what makes his parish unique.  St. Alphonsus has the largest congregation in all 32 churches in Central.  Gifts and talent abound in this Catholic family.  There is never a lack of participation in festivals, auctions, ministries and liturgies.  The Church is part of a growing community that is exciting, and as the community flourishes, so does St. Alphonsus.  Fr. Mike praises the founders of St. Alphonsus for their vision in establishing a Catholic presence in this community.   He is quite certain they are smiling upon his church from up above and is grateful they planted the seeds that gave life to his beloved parish that is a viable presence in all our lives.

    One of Fr. Mike’s favorite scripture passages sums it all up:  “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God; which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.”(1 Peter 2:9-10).

    A final thought Fr. Mike would like to express is his sincere sense of thankfulness and deep gratitude to all who have journeyed with him over the last forty years up to this moment– friends, family, staff, priests, deacons and parishioners.  Thanks for the memories!

    God bless you, Fr. Mike. Here’s to 40 more wonderful years.

   St. Alphonsus Catholic Church would like to extend an invitation to the community to join with them as they celebrate Father Mike Moroney’s 40th anniversary in the priesthood.  A mass will be held at 3:00 Sunday, June 12, complete with choir accompanied by brass and many priests, the Bishop, and area pastors.  A reception is to follow immediately.

By Mia Freneaux

    Jason Allen, the new pastor at First Baptist Central, calls his new position “returning to his roots.” Jason is originally from this area and graduated from Central Private.  He has served at Circle Baptist Church in Baker, as a youth pastor at Crossgates Baptist Church in Brandon, MS, and as pastor at First Baptist Church in Scottsboro, AL. It was while he was serving in Brandon that he met his future wife Heather Woolfolk, who is originally from Zachary.  They have two children: Caleb (2) and Gabrielle (11 mos).  They are expecting their third child in November. 

    While serving at First Baptist, Jason is also working on his Master of Divinity at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.  “Our hearts’ passion is to reach out to those in the Central area with the life-changing power of Jesus Christ.” Jason shared. “There is more to God than just following rules and being a good person.  The Creator of the Universe wants to have a personal relationship with us.  When sin broke that relationship, He made a way through Christ’s blood for us to be bought back.  Trusting Him with our lives through faith brings us purpose and forgiveness, and allows us to walk with our Creator.  Our church desires to reach people with this simple but powerful message and show them that His offer of grace extends to all.”