Ellington

The East Hamilton Ministerial Association is more than just a gathering of pastors.

Even though group members said they enjoy fellowshipping with one another and networking resources, they are also committed to making a difference in the East Hamilton community.

“What we’re trying to do is find ways to set aside doctrinal differences to work together for the good of the community and to help meet needs in the name of Christ,” said association member and local pastor Richard Barr.

Most recently the group allocated considerable time and resources toward helping with the tornado relief efforts following the April 27, 2011 storms and the smaller tornado outbreak which occurred March 1 of this year. Now the group is working to refocus its efforts on helping the transient people that come through the area as well as beginning planning for its annual communitywide Thanksgiving dinner.

Officer elections and committee designations are upcoming, but the association is also looking to get more pastors and church leaders involved in the organization, said Barr.

With approximately 18 active members and an estimated 60 churches in the area, the association’s president Tom Hayes said there is room to grow. Potential voting members must be active pastors of Christian churches in the eastern third of Hamilton County, but retired pastors are also welcome to join as non-voting members.

“I would encourage more people to join and share with us the progress and their journeys,” Hayes said. “I feel like it’s better for the community the more the association grows, because it will also help the community grow together.”

Whether it’s hosting a multi-church choir performance, inviting other congregations to events at one church or brainstorming about ways to reach out to people in the area, Hayes said the organization would benefit from new members.

The association meets the second Thursday of every month at Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove, 4586 Forsythia Way in Collegedale, at 8 a.m. for a period of devotion, breakfast and a planning meeting.

For more information about the association contact Hayes at 396-5464.