Growing up, Justin Simmons didn’t have much. However, he was lucky to belong to a loving and giving church family at Grace Fellowship in Hatley.

“The church just stepped up and stepped in,” he said, laughing, as he mentioned that some still buy clothes for him.

Simmons said he started to find ways to serve at the church as they served him.

“I started seeing how service can really change your heart and others’ hearts,” he said.

Eventually, his work and gift for leadership was noticed, and he was asked to serve as Youth Minister at Trinity Baptist Church in Amory. After a little over a year, Simmons was then asked to take over for the retiring pastor and has been leading the church since December.

“I’m just kind of humbled by it,” the 22-year-old said.

Simmons is currently studying Christian Ministry at Blue Mountain College and plans to continue his studies with seminary.

He also is still very passionate about helping those in need.

“Reach up and reach out” is a vision of the church, which Simmons explained means to grow and serve in Christ. He said Sundays are built around growing, and Wednesday services are focused on serving and sharing.

The church’s next outreach is a book drive, and they plan to gather a list of those in need in the community to help this summer.

Pastor quote:

‘Before someone will care about what you know, they need to know you care.’

Justin Simmons

pastor

QUICK FACTS

• Denomination: Baptist

• Pastor: Justin Simmons

• Average attendance: 65

• Worship style: traditional

• Worship days: Sunday school 9:45 a.m.,

worship 11 a.m., 6 p.m., Wed. - 6 p.m.

• Address: 50007 Durrett Circle, Aberdeen

• Phone: (662) 315-5082

The Daily Journal spotlights churches in the community. To nominate a church, contact Christie McNeal at

christie.mcneal@journalinc.com.