The Rev. Dr.

John Hatcher

Religion Columnist

One of our south metro divorced pastors was married again Saturday, December 5, in what had to be one of the most inspiring, moving, and God-honoring weddings I've ever attended.

The young son gave his mother away to his father. That's right. The Rev. Ron Stribling, pastor of Heritage Harvest Church, married his divorced wife, Terry, the mother of their three children. It was a great victory of the family. It was a great victory for their church. And, it was a great victory for the cause of Christ.

Members of Heritage Harvest Church put together one of most awesome events to honor the Lord Jesus Christ, the power behind the reunification of Ron and Terry. There were holy dance, praise worship, prophetic prayers, and the children.

After Ron and Terry lighted their unity candle, across the platform stood their three, beautiful children. They sang, "Because You Loved Us."

What power and pathos! The whole house dissolved into tears, not just the women.

I can't begin to tell you how often this does not happen. The world is good at counseling that once you untie the knot, don't look back. Well, here are two people who looked back and deep in each other's hearts and also looked deep into the heart of God. Now, they look forward to a new future of serving one another, their children, and partnership in serving the church.

This is a time the whole church should stand up and cheer loud and long. The devil has had a heyday with our marriages, clergy included. Many clergy couples who have not divorced are living in cloistered agony, just an attorney away from divorce.

Someone suggested that Ron and Terry will be asked to appear on television or to write a book, so that others can benefit from their agony and ecstasy. I've got a better idea for those of you who want some hope and help with your marriage: take a ride over to Heritage Harvest Church located on Georgia 85, south of Whitewater Middle School. I'm sure that they will welcome you with open arms, completely understanding your pain and loneliness.

Heritage Harvest Church has just celebrated the completion of its new worship center. It's very beautiful. The people there are beautiful and have a heart for others who have been struck by life's adversities. The worship team, including a power instrumental ensemble, is awesome.

You will be blessed. In addition, you'll meet a pastor and wife who truly can understand what nearly 50 percent of Fayette's population has been through.

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