On Sunday, June 9, the Rev. Betty Massey was installed as the new minister of Fairhope Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) by the Rev. Kerry Kesey, regional minister of the Alabama-Northwest Florida Region.

Fairhope Christian Church, established in 1896, was the first church in Fairhope and initially served as a house of worship for the entire community at its original location at the corner of St. James and Church streets.

Rev. Massey was born in San Antonio 63 years ago and grew up in Mississippi, where she met and married her husband, David. They moved to the Mobile/Eastern Shore area in 1989. She worked in retail as a buyer and in manufacturing as a cost accountant in Mobile.

Twelve years ago, the couple began their ministry journey with the Disciples of Christ as members of Fairhope Christian Church. After a couple of years of discernment, they were commissioned to a church in Pensacola while completing their studies at the Lexington Theological Seminary. They served that church community for the past nine years.

"I have returned to Fairhope Christian Church as the newly called pastor and I'm excited to see what God has planned for our ministry," Rev. Massey said.

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), founded in the early 1800s in the United States, envisioned a united church of Jesus Christ modeled on the New Testament. The community is structured around the biblical idea of covenant, emphasizing accountability to one another because of a shared belief in Christ, rather than obedience to human authority. The church affirms that Jesus Christ is the son of the living God and offers saving grace to all. Communion is celebrated weekly in worship and is open to all who believe in Jesus Christ. Each congregation is self-governing and calls its own pastor.

Pastor Betty invites the community to visit Fairhope Christian Church, located at 349 Fairwood Blvd. in Fairhope. Sunday mornings begin with Sunday school at 9 a.m., followed by worship at 10 a.m., and a time of fellowship after the service. Additional opportunities are offered during the week. For more information, visit www.disciples.org or call (251) 928-8495.