Saturday, May 25, 2013
East Kentucky



EASTERN KENTUCKY DISTRICT CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

As of January 1, 2013


The Church of the Nazarene exists to serve as an instrument for advancing the kingdom of God through the preaching and teaching of the gospel throughout the world.

The Eastern Kentucky District (The District) is one of two districts in Kentucky , and is part of the East Central Region ( Mount Vernon Nazarene University ).  The District is bordered by the Kentucky District, generally to the west of Interstate I-75, and also bordered by the states of Indiana , Ohio , Tennessee , Virginia , and West Virginia .  The District’s diverse geography includes rugged mountains of the Eastern Coal Fields, rolling hills, farms, forests, river valleys, small towns, and suburbs of several cities.  The District was established in 1952, and is home to 55 organized churches, three NewStarts, and a campground.  It is an active District, and promotes various events and opportunities for children, youth, adults, and Work & Witness throughout the year.

Most of the churches on the District are in small or rural towns, though a number of churches are in suburbs of Cincinnati, OH ; Lexington, KY ; and Huntington, WV .  There are no urban areas on the District.  In morning worship attendance for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2012, one church  average greater than 200; 11 churches average between 100 to 199; 23 churches average between 50 to 99; and 23 churches average below 50.  The majority of our pastors are bi-vocational due to economic conditions and the growing cost of health insurace; though, some ar bi-vocational by choice.  The ethnicity of the District is 90% white-, 7% African-American, and 3% other. Four NewStarts were registered since 2003, and multiple other NewStart locations are being targeted in demographically growing areas.  Though not presently in a position to fully underwrite the costs of NewStarts, the District and some established churches are cooperating and partnering to assist as much as possible.  

The people in our District churches are spiritually sincere, hard-working, and loving.  Generally, our churches are traditional in worship style and accept change when it comes gradually; however, it’s not uncommon to find some churches blended or contemporary in worship and comfortable with more rapid change.  Most Kentuckians were born in the state and remain here, so immediate and extended family units are close and provide great opportunities for outreach.  Pastors that do well on this District are generally strong preachers, down-to-earth, personable, and willing to visit or call on present and prospective members.  Kentuckians enjoy a pastor that wants to be a part of their lives.  Kentuckians also respond best when persuaded rather than pushed, and if treated with love and respect, Kentuckians will be a pastor’s friend for life.  Though not required, becoming a “Kentucky Wildcat” fan never hurts.  Go UK !

Other helpful information:

  1. District Websitewww.ekynazarene.org
  2. Chamber of Commerce - www.kychamber.com
  3. Demographics - http://map.nazarene.org/
  4. Employment Opportunities - www.oet.ky.gov
  5. Realtors - www.kar.com
  6. Tourism - www.kentuckytourism.com

Thank you for stopping by. Please take time to look around our site. Find a ministry opportunity that interests you. Read about the latest news from our district. Utilize our resources to learn more about who we are. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us here at the district office.