Considering the present state of our world, it is a challenge to remain a positive and yet truthful leader for God's people.”Jimmy Peyton, Pastor of Welti Cumberland Presbyterian Church
WELTI – Welti Cumberland Presbyterian Church has been a part of the Welti community since 1901. It has a family feel that lovingly welcomes people. Pastor Jimmy Peyton and his family play a big part in creating such a wonderful, loving atmosphere at the church. Not only does Peyton minister to the folks in Welti, but he also spreads the word of God in other countries.
Peyton and his wife Andrea have been married close to 24 years. Together they have a daughter, Katie, who is 18 and a son, Jonathan, who is 15. Both Peyton and his wife graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Peyton completed the Cumberland Presbyterian Program of Alternate Studies in preparation for his ordination to the gospel ministry. He began his ministry full-time on the first Sunday in 2000.
Prior to becoming a minister, Peyton worked as a full-time firefighter. He was employed for 5 1/2 years at the Columbia, Tenn. Fire Department and 1 year at the Mt. Pleasant, TN Fire Department. Eventually he became enflamed with the fire of the Holy Spirit and answered God’s calling.
“If I look back at my life it is obvious that God was preparing me for the ministry and perhaps even calling me,” Peyton explained.
“Sometimes we don't hear God very well though,” he chuckled. “I had my own plans. One Sunday morning while attending worship service in Mt. Pleasant, I heard God's call on me. While listening to the preacher, God spoke to my heart and said, 'that is what you are supposed to be doing.’ Family and friends helped to confirm that call when I talked to them about it. Since then I have tried to fulfill that calling,” he smiled warmly.
Peyton has been at Welti Cumberland Presbyterian Church since April 2012. Before that, he ministered to churches throughout Tennessee and Alabama – including Welti Cumberland Presbyterian Church a few years back. No matter where he goes, there are common rewards and difficulties in doing the Lord’s work.
“Considering the present state of our world, it is a challenge to remain a positive and yet truthful leader for God's people,” he explained. “People have many interests and focuses, but it is the pastor's role to keep them centered on the loving mercy and saving grace of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the only hope for our world and the troubles people have. A pastor needs to help people see the love and power of God – even in the troubling and difficult times of their lives.”
“There are many rewarding aspect to being a pastor,” he continued. “First would have to be experiencing God's closeness and care. He provides for all people so graciously,” he smiled warmly.
“Second are the relationships I’ve developed with people. It is wonderful finding love and friendship among new communities, rejoicing and crying with those people as we spend the course of our lives together.”
“The third aspect is the opportunities God has given me to go on mission trips and minister along with my brothers and sisters in Christ. In 2004 I spent 15 days in Cambodia and was involved in several mission activities. I have been to Guatemala three times, in 2007, 2010, and 2014. The 2014 trip allowed me to lead a work team that included my daughter and three other youth from our church,” he grinned proudly.
“In February of this year I went to Haiti and I will be returning there this fall. Our denomination is just beginning work there.”
Welti Cumberland Presbyterian Church is located at 8817 County Road 747, Cullman, AL 35055.
Sunday school classes begin at 10:00 a.m. and worship service begins at 11:00 a.m. on Sundays.
For more information call 256-737-9138, e-mail weltipastor@welticpchurch.com or visit welticpchurch.com. Follow the church on Facebook at facebook.com/pages/Welti-Cumberland-Presbyterian-Church/269036996542893.
