Joseph Evan French, 1945-1998

  The pastoral ministry of Joseph Evan French was limited to 26 years because of his death at age 52. His pastoral ministry began in 1972 when he became the seminary associate pastor of St. Mark’s Church, Arlington. Upon graduation from Wesley Theological Seminary he was appointed to be the associate pastor of Raleigh Court Church, Roanoke. After two years his pastorate took him to Marshall Church, Winchester District, where he served for seven years. During these seven years the average attendance in worship doubled and the membership increased by 62. The next pastorate was Henderson Church, Rappahannock District, for a three year period. His last appointment was Francis Asbury Church, Virginia Beach, which he served for 10 years. The average attendance in worship increased from 116 to 271 with a membership gain of 95.

  Joe was always an athlete, a student, a participant and a people person. He built his ministry around these characteristics. Every church always had a softball team with men, women and youth. Church attendance was required to be a member of these teams. Even though his goal was always to be the champion team, good sportsmanship, fellowship and Christian character were required. Bowling, volleyball, basketball and other sports were always a part of the congregations’ ministries.

  Joe was a student and an intellect. He read extensively and was a committed teacher of the Scriptures. He became convinced that The Bethel Bible Study was superior to all other introductions to God’s Word and never hesitated to promote his opinion. Marshall, Henderson and Francis Asbury churches have many people (over 150) who have completed this two year concentrated study under his invitation, encouragement and teaching. These people are Bible literate and leaders in their churches.

  Joe was never a spectator. He was always involved and present in every activity of his congregations. The youth and children were a priority as well as the United Methodist Women, the United Methodist Men and every organization and committee. He led by example in keeping church property in good repair and looking its best. He painted the high steeple at Marshall himself and led the trustees and members to make the house of God a beautiful witness to the community.

  Joe liked people. His communication skills allowed him to identify with every kind of personality, age and position in life. He was never married — however, he was wedded to his congregations and they were his family. He preached and taught the faith, believing Isaiah 40:8, "Yes, grass withers and flowers fade, but the word of God endures forever." He challenged his congregations to grow spiritually and to become disciples of Jesus Christ. He encouraged, but corrected his members and always allowed them to know of his love and support for them as well as God’s great respect and value for every person. Joe lived his life using Psalm 119:105 as his creed, "Your Word is a lamp to guide me and a light for my path."

  Thanks, Joe, for planting seeds, for tender loving cultivation, and for serving God and His church to the best of your ability. The world and the church are better because you lived and the harvesting will continue because of your faith.

— Lee B. Sheaffer