Sowing the Fruit
Propagating the Faith in Bowling Green, KY
Lawrence Kelley conducts a meeting with several members of the church every Tuesday morning. During these meetings, he discusses upcoming events, including their trimester classes and summer camp.
Lawrence Kelley reviews his next sermon in his office on Saturday afternoon. He normally begins research for his weekly sermons on Thursday, and finalizes everything on Saturday. “I do try to be pretty thorough with my notes,” says Lawrence. “I used to have twice as many books on my bookshelf, before the Internet became a big deal.”
Lawrence prays alone near the church pulpit right after going over his sermon. “I say a prayer about the lesson and that it goes well, and I think about the people who will hear it,” says Lawrence. “Sometimes a few specific faces come to mind, of people who will appreciate the lesson.”
Lawrence Kelley preaches in front of the church crowd on Sunday morning. This is his 22nd year preaching at Lost River Church of Christ, and his 33rd year of preaching in general. “It feels like a heavy responsibility,” says Lawrence. “It definitely has its challenges, but I’ve found it very fulfilling, meaningful work. I don’t have any regrets.”
Lawrence Kelley laughs in the church lobby while shaking hands and talking with people after the Sunday lesson. “The church is a family, not a business,” says Lawrence. “I’m going to come here to be served, but also to serve as well.”