Good morning, everyone! I am honored to stand before you today as we gather for this wonderful church conference here in Houma, Louisiana. This is a special place, and I’m so glad we are all here together, ready to reflect on God’s incredible creation and the role we play as part of His community. For those of you who may not be as familiar with Houma, allow me to share a few thoughts about this charming town, which perfectly encapsulates the idea of God’s abundant blessings.

Houma, often referred to as the “Sportsmen’s Paradise,” offers a glimpse into the incredible beauty of God’s creation. From the sprawling marshlands to the meandering bayous, this region of Louisiana is truly a haven for those who appreciate the outdoors. Whether it’s fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply exploring the natural beauty of the area, Houma is a reminder that God has placed us in a world full of adventure, wonder, and opportunities to marvel at His work. Many of us find God in nature, as it allows us to step outside of the busyness of life and into the vastness of creation. The quiet stillness of the waters or the majestic trees stretching high above us can bring us closer to God, reminding us that He is the creator of all things.

One of the gems of this area is the Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge. Just a short drive from the heart of Houma, it’s a serene spot where you can see firsthand the delicate ecosystems of Louisiana’s wetlands. As we walk through these spaces, we are reminded of the words in Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” Indeed, every tree, every bird, and every ripple on the water serves as a testament to God’s creativity and handiwork. It’s hard not to stand in awe of the beauty that surrounds us, reflecting on how all of creation is part of God’s divine plan.

Nearby, we also have the Bayou Terrebonne Wildlife Museum, which celebrates the region’s natural diversity. Here, we have the opportunity to learn more about the local wildlife, the plants, and the delicate balance that makes this area so unique. It’s a place where we can connect with the land, but also understand how much care and responsibility we must take to protect what God has entrusted to us. Just as we are stewards of our faith, we are also stewards of the earth, called to care for it and nurture it so that future generations can continue to experience its beauty and bounty.

As we consider Houma’s natural beauty, we must also reflect on its deeper sense of community. Despite being a smaller city with just over 33,400 residents, Houma’s residents demonstrate a close-knit and welcoming spirit. This community, like the body of Christ, works together to support one another in times of need and joy alike. I see this same spirit of togetherness and care in the church – a place where we come together to worship, to pray, and to serve one another. It reminds me of Romans 12:4-5, which says, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” We are each unique, but we are called to come together to serve and glorify God.

One of the highlights of any visit to Houma is St. Francis de Sales Cathedral, an iconic place of worship that stands tall and proud in the center of town. The cathedral serves as a beautiful symbol of the rich faith history of this community. Just as this cathedral has stood through the years, providing a place of refuge and hope for countless individuals, so too does the church today serve as a beacon of God’s love and grace. As we gather here, we stand on the foundation of those who have gone before us, building a legacy of faith that we continue to live out. I encourage all of you to take a moment to visit this beautiful landmark and reflect on the importance of remaining grounded in faith, just as this cathedral has remained steadfast for generations.

As we talk about community, it’s important to also consider the practical side of living in a town like Houma. Despite being a small city, it offers an affordable cost of living and a slower pace of life that many of us long for in this fast-paced world. The simplicity and quietness of the town provide an opportunity to truly enjoy the blessings we have – our homes, our families, our work, and our time together. I’ve spoken with many of you here today, and I know that Houma’s charm lies in the fact that people are able to thrive in this peaceful environment. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more, and true fulfillment comes not from the things we accumulate, but from the relationships we build and the lives we touch.

But, of course, all of this comes down to the heart of what we are doing here today. Our mission as the church is to be that living, breathing community of believers who exemplify the love of God in everything we do. We are called to spread the gospel, to serve others, and to build relationships rooted in faith. Just as Houma’s residents take pride in their community, we too should take pride in the body of Christ. We are His hands and feet in this world, called to serve the least of these, to care for one another, and to build God’s kingdom on earth.

As we reflect on the unique opportunities Houma presents for outdoor recreation, community engagement, and spiritual growth, we are reminded that all these things are part of God’s greater plan. In the simple moments of life – whether that’s fishing with a friend on Bayou Terrebonne or sitting in worship at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral – we encounter God’s presence in profound ways. We are invited to be part of something greater than ourselves, a community of believers that spans generations, united in our faith and our love for Christ.

I am thankful for each and every one of you here today. Your presence in this conference is a reflection of your commitment to walk alongside one another, to grow in faith, and to spread the love of Christ throughout this community and beyond. Just as Houma is a beautiful reflection of God’s creation, we, as a church, are meant to reflect His love, grace, and peace to the world.

May this conference serve as a time of renewal for all of us, a time to recharge and refocus on the work God has called us to do. Let us leave this place with hearts full of hope and hands ready to serve, knowing that God’s plan for us is ever-present, guiding us toward greater unity and purpose in His kingdom. Amen.