by Cathy Boyd Byrd | Jun 8, 2015 | Calling, Ministry
In August 2008, just about six weeks after completing my master’s degree in counseling, I began my application for ministry candidacy and was preparing to meet for the first time with the District Board of Ministry. I was putting together a plan for attending...
by Cathy Boyd Byrd | Jun 7, 2015 | The Church
Several times during the Annual Conference meeting of the Alabama-West Florida UMC Conference, as deacons were talking among themselves I heard references to “compassion”. Compassion is part of the specific ministry of deacons, according to our church’s Discipline....
by Cathy Boyd Byrd | Mar 1, 2015 | Scripture Studies
What some people don’t understand is that when one has been called to care for others in a spiritual sense, the well-being of those others is of paramount importance. When threats come against those who are vulnerable, it is the responsibility of the shepherd,...
by Cathy Boyd Byrd | Nov 25, 2014 | Scripture Studies
I have been thinking about the number of youth in our church who have expressed a desire to explore vocations in ministry. I have also reflected on how many are already in seminary or serving as licensed local pastors who have been “raised up” in our...
by Cathy Boyd Byrd | Sep 21, 2014 | Calling, CBByrd Testimony
On March 26, 2012 I wrote about being asked to serve on the board of a local ministry and the surprise I felt in seeing my name in the minutes, being referred to as “Reverend Cathy Byrd” for the first time. As a commissioned deacon, I am allowed, even...
