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February 16, 2013

New Methodist minister uniting community with luncheon

By Jocelyn Pederson The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — A new minister in Noble isn’t using loaves and fishes to feed the multitude; instead it’s tacos and baked potatoes. Pastor William Stovall, who prefers to be called Pastor Bill, is new to the Noble United Methodist Church, 204 Main St. The church recently held a taco dinner to welcome Stovall, and this Sunday, after church, the community is invited to a baked potato luncheon.

Although new to Noble, Stovall isn’t new to the South. Originally from east Texas, he says he and his wife, Kathryn, lived in her native Nebraska where they raised registered longhorn cattle prior to moving to Oklahoma. Stovall says he’s enjoying being back south on a farm near Choctaw.

“It’s good to be back in the land of sweet tea and chicken fried steak,” Stovall quipped.

Stovall says the bishop asked him to take Noble United Methodist Church when the former pastor of Noble United Methodist left. Being retired, Stovall and his wife, who he says takes a big roll in the church, agreed to step in until a new pastor is assigned. Stovall says he has taken in some Sooner basketball games and is having a lot of fun.

Stovall says he really likes Noble, and his congregation seems to be enjoying him, too.

“I think he’s great,” said Karen Davenport, Outreach Committee member. “He’s one of those people who wants to be involved. He’s been involved in everything we’ve even thought about. Our last pastor was here for nine years. He left on good terms. Everyone hated to see him go. Bill had some big shoes to fill. He’s like a big whirlwind. He’s just spread himself over everything.”

Stovall seems to have stepped in and become involved quickly. He touts the church’s praise band, calling it “wonderful” and he attends the church dinners because, as he puts it, “We’re looking to grow and get ourselves ready for the new pastor who is coming in June.”

Stovall says the community is invited to the baked potato luncheon so they can “get to know us. We’re right on Main Street, right in the center of town.” The luncheon will be held immediately after the 10:50 a.m. service where Stovall’s sermon will be “Why I don’t Want to be a Sheep.”

For more information, call the church at 405-872-3913 or visit www.nobleumc.org.

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