Ministry on the Margins in Weber City

In the far southwest corner of Virginia, there is a small town called Weber City, which was named from an old Amos ‘n’ Andy radio episode. The population of Weber City, in 2010, was 1,327. In 1978, Pastor Raymond Hammonds had a vision to pioneer a church in this small community. Along with his wife Betty and their two sons, Eddie and Jody, they set out to do a work for the Lord. After much prayer and fasting, the Lord opened a door for them in an old two story building. They worshiped there until 1984, when they were then able to obtain a $94,000 loan towards a new building and property. By God’s provision, they were able to pay this loan off three years early.

This church is very active in their service for the Lord. Since 1991, they have had a prayer meeting Monday thru Saturday at 1:30 PM at the church. Jesus said “My house shall be called a house of prayer.” This church takes that command seriously. They have engaged in nearly 4,000 hours of prayer over the last 25 years!

They have had the opportunity to minister at the Smoky Mountain Home for Children for the past 24 years. Also, since October 2004, the church feeds hundreds of people each month through their food pantry program.

Weber City Church of God is a church with a vision. They have been active in buying new property and updating their existing facilities. Inside the church building are two beautiful displays of the 10 Commandments and the Declaration of Faith, which capture the vision of this church. They minister with the conviction that it is all for the glory of God. They desire to serve those who attend the church as well as the surrounding community.

Pastor Hammonds is the founding pastor and also the only pastor this church has had. For 38 years, Pastor Hammonds has led with a servant’s heart. He gives all the glory to God and he attributes the successes of the Weber City Church of God to prayer. This church was started in prayer and it continues to draw its strength and creative ways of reaching out through prayer.

Weber City Church of God members care for people and love worshipping God. You don’t have to be large to have a big impact. Weber City Church of God is proof of that and is summed up in Hebrews 11:6, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

Submitted by: Cliff Bowman