Wanda English Burnett, Editor

After preaching more than 4,500 different sermons over the span of 44 years at the Cedar Creek Community Church, one might think the pastor might be announcing his retirement. That is just the opposite of what the Reverent Garland Rudd is saying. “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and go!” he enthusiastically told the Osgood Journal after his congregation voted to keep him and wife, Loredith, loving referred to as Sister Bea, another year.

The little country church is situated between Osgood and Versailles just off US 421 nestled close to the Versailles State Park property. From the 30x40 building it was 44 years ago to the beautiful property it is today is thanks to a dedicated group of people and a leader who praises others rather than himself.

The church was reopened by the Rudds and a handful of people in May of 1963. “Someone told us God was through with this place,” Mrs. Rudd reminisced. “I knew differently,” her husband noted, saying, “God was telling me to go there.” Minding the call of God on his life has proven to be an asset to a community as hundreds have been touched by the ministries at the Cedar Creek Community Church over the years.

The Rudds are proud of a congregation who have helped them build on to a small structure to accommodate the crowd. “We have built on about seven different times,” Rev. Rudd noted. They’ve renovated, updated, added a baptistry, shelter house, black-topped, purchased additional acreage, and most recently installed a beautiful perimeter fence - and are completely debt free.

The church offers programs for children and youth, supports missions, and uses local talent to provide great music. Depending on the time of year they see anywhere from 125 to 200 in attendance. A statue in the shape of a scroll proudly displays the 10 commandments at the front entrance. “It’s what we live by,” Rev. Rudd told the Osgood Journal. The church is also known for is its beautiful candlelight communion services.

Four new members were added to the congregation recently, something the pastor is pleased about. “We welcome everyone at Cedar Creek,” the couple agreed.

While Rev. Rudd prays for guidance on his sermon subjects, he says some things never change. One of the most important passages of scripture that came to his mind immediately was I Corinthians 13, better known as the “love” chapter. “Love is the greatest commandment,” the Reverend noted. “Oh, I like to use Hebrews 11 and John 3: You must be born again!” “And, you always say, ‘A merry heart doeth good like a medicine,’” (which can be found in Proverbs 17:22) Mrs. Rudd chimed in.

Although she is confined to a wheelchair she is very much a part of the ministry team.

A lighted cross shines against the night sky atop the church welcoming those in the darkness of sin a bright hope for a better future. The Rudds welcome the community with open arms. Whether he’s in the store, restaurant, or waiting for a doctor’s appointment, the pastor never misses an opportunity to invite someone to church. It’s something he’s done for the past 44 years and doesn’t plan to change.
Although the Rudds will celebrate 60 years of marriage on April 17, and they are both in their 80’s, they refuse to slow down. “No time for that,” Rev. Rudd notes as he quickly explains the reasons for any success in his ministry: “It’s the good Lord and the people. It’s not me,” he firmly states.