Cedar Lake United Methodist in Biloxi has a new pastor

Cedar Lake United Methodist Church has made some wonderful changes recently. The 107-year-old church just welcomed a new pastor. Rev. Bess Perrier, who grew up in Vicksburg, delivered her first message as the pastor of Cedar Lake in June.

Perrier completed her internship at Parkway Hills United Methodist Church in Meridian. This is her first pastorate. She has three children and is married to the pastor of First United Methodist Church Gautier, Rev. Austin Hoyle.

Prior to Perrier's arrival, Rev. Garry Ruff led the services. He is now retired from the ministry.

Cedar Lake members were excited by the opportunity to build a Family Life Center behind their sanctuary. It serves several purposes and gives the church needed room to grow. The new building opened this summer and is over 9,300 square feet. The church is now working toward finishing a second floor of the Family Life Center.

Among the opportunities for involvement, the women of the church gather for fellowship at 10 a.m. the first Wednesday of every month.

Wednesday mornings also is when all ages meet for a Prayer Circle meeting at 9 a.m.

A community favorite is the first Saturday of each month, when the UMW hosts a huge breakfast from 7 to 9 a.m.

Cedar Lake United Methodist offers mission studies, adult small groups and a long list of children's activities and classes throughout the year.

The children of the church will bake Communion bread for churchgoers on Nov. 22. Communion will be held during the 10 a.m. service, followed by the Hanging of the Greens. A potluck meal will be served after services, and all are welcomed to attend and bring a dish to share.

This year's Christmas Cantata, "Oh Holy Night," will be presented during the 10 a.m. service on Dec. 20.

A nursery is provided for services and the youth and children's departments are involved in praise, worship and learning.

The new website for the church is being constructed. In the meantime, contact Perrier at bessperrier51@hotmail.com.

This story was originally published November 13, 2015 at 7:31 PM with the headline "Cedar Lake United Methodist in Biloxi has a new pastor ."