My Friendship with Donnie Woods
“A friend loves at all times…”
Proverbs 17:17

Yesterday before the prayers of the people, I asked for special prayers for my friend Donnie Woods who served as
Presbytery Exec and pastor to pastor of CAP (Charleston Atlantic Presbytery).

When I returned to CAP in 2007, (maybe my coming home was in large part due to Donnie) to serve as organizing
pastor of the Palmetto Church in Carolina Park, Donnie asked me to serve on the staff of the Presbytery with
him…the preposition “with” can’t be stated enough. Donnie was indeed the easiest person I have ever worked with
(for). Most folks in the 45 plus churches in our Presbytery have no idea just how “pastoral” Donnie is and how
much he has done for the pastors and congregations throughout our Presbytery.

But for me, he was first off, my friend. Donnie looked out for me, he gave me unique opportunities to serve, he
trusted my judgment and he encouraged me whenever I doubted myself. We traveled together, going to numerous
conferences and general assembly meetings. We ate lunch together often and he was one of Palmetto’s biggest
supporters. Our birthdays are one day and one year apart, in September… so for the last 18 years we always
“celebrated” together, and we “retired” together in 2022. When I retired and told Donnie I was coming back to be
at New Wappetaw he was thrilled and assured me I was making the right decision.

Donnie has been quietly battling an illness for a while now and I’m not sure how much time he has left, but I will
continue to offer prayers of gratitude for my FRIEND… Donnie Woods.

Please keep Donnie in your prayers.

Have a great week.

Blessings.
Mike

Church News

• We welcome Mark and Ann Karst, Robbie and Kimberly Dodds, and Daniel Epps who joined the church
  yesterday ( June 15).
• All Bible school leaders need to have background checks… Linda Youngblood is overseeing this so please
  contact her if you have not had a background check for the church.
• Please keep all our leaders in your prayers as we plan for BS the week of July 7-11.
• Session will meet this Sunday, June 22 after worship.
• Thanks to Drew and Peggy Allison who provided refreshments after worship last Sunday! We will have
  refreshments after worship on the lawn the third Sunday of each month.
• Don’t forget to bring your ECCO grocery bags to church this Sunday.
• Plans are underway for our Mothers Morning Out program to start in August. Please keep this new ministry
  opportunity in your prayers.
• Have you checked out our new website? Go online and type in New Wappetaw Presbyterian.