With much joy, we are pleased to announce the official formation of a new mission congregation called First United Methodist Church of Hope, Arkansas. With this designation, this congregation is authorized to establish a transitional board, budget, and ministry plans and receive an appointed pastor, even as they enter into discernment and set goals for becoming a chartered church within the Arkansas Conference. To this end, we are pleased to announce that Rev. Larry Kelso will be appointed to serve as pastor of this congregation in a part-time capacity starting January 1.
Rev. Kelso is a retired elder from Magnolia. He has served United Methodist congregations in Clarksville, Magnolia, Forrest City, and Stuttgart, among others. Please keep this new mission congregation in your prayers.