Nurturing the Call
We are inviting every pastor across the South Central Ohio District to join together in preaching on The Call on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
While none of us—including pastors and parents—can call someone into the ministry, we can create a climate in our churches and homes where it is easy for God to call, and easier still for people to hear His voice.
I will never forget the night God called me. It was a warm July 23 evening during a youth camp service in Summersville, West Virginia. That moment has been the defining spiritual experience of my life.
Diane and I grew up in a church in Paden City, WV, that has seen many individuals called to ministry. Over the years, that church has produced more than a dozen pastors and pastor’s spouses—including four from my own family. Looking back, I believe there were identifiable traits that contributed to that fruitful environment.
First, our pastor, Rev. L. K. Hostutler, was a supportive, mentoring pastor. He came alongside me when I was a teenager, encouraged me, and gave me opportunities to preach and to participate with him in pastoral ministry. In time, he invited me to become a member of his pastoral staff.
Second, our church was filled with faithful and affirming laypersons. I remember their names even now: Batson, Duncan, Hawkins, Stewart, Ward, Doran. Their Christlike examples shaped my faith, and I remain deeply grateful for their influence.
Finally, I was blessed with supportive parents who celebrated and affirmed my call—and that of my siblings. Their sacrifices allowed us to attend Mount Vernon Nazarene University, where we prepared for vocational ministry.
Pastor, thank you for your willingness to nurture and mentor those in your congregation who may be called to ministry. On October 12, I encourage you to:
- Share your personal call story.
- Reflect on your own ministry journey.
- Create space for your people to respond to God’s call in their lives.
Let us be a district where God’s voice is heard clearly, where His call is affirmed openly, and where the next generation of ministers finds encouragement and support.
May the Lord continue to call men and women from our churches into the great adventure of vocational ministry—and may we continue to nurture and celebrate that call.
With gratitude and hope,
Eddie Estep
District Superintendent
South Central Ohio
