This month, Drover Cowboy Church in Harrisburg, Arkansas, celebrated its one year anniversary as a church plant. Pastor Chance Watson and his church family created an event for the community as they reminisced about how God has been able to use this church plant to further the Kingdom.

 

Seven years ago, Watson felt he was called to be a part of a cowboy church at Three Trees Cowboy Church in Wynne, AR and later served as an interim at Higher Trails Cowboy Church in Paragould, Arkansas. As time and personal growth took root, Watson quickly fell in love with the cowboy church, its people, and the God we serve. With the help and encouragement of his church family at Three Trees, this young man soon left to plant a new church in Harrisburg, Arkansas known today as Drover Cowboy Church.

 

However, obstacles are sure to come our way. It’s one thing to say we’re going to plant a church, but the process can be quite difficult. That’s one of the many reasons we love serving our God. He already has a plan before we even thought of the idea. As a young married couple, Watson and his wife had to learn this the hard way before completely surrendering to the Lord. It was only until then that the Lord began opening doors for them.

 

In only three years through the help of Three Trees Cowboy Church and Central Baptist Church, Watson and his family were given equipment, a temporary place to meet, and a core group of people to begin making an impact in this small town in Arkansas. The first service at the first location launched, and 207 people were in attendance.

 

“We didn’t expect any of this in a year much less three months. We outran an entire year’s worth of plans and just let God run it all. To see what He’s doing so far has been overwhelming.” - Chance Watson, Drover Cowboy Church pastor

 

What’s unique about Drover Cowboy Church is that one of its ministries meet in local barns. Watson calls it “Barn Ministry.” “Barn Ministry is known for reaching those that don’t normally graze the church.” Often, people are afraid to walk into a new place without knowing anything or anybody there, but Watson has found that there is a special kind of comfort that comes from meeting in your neighbor’s barn.

 

 

Quickly, the congregation began to outgrow its original meeting place.

 

Soon after that, the team discovered an indoor warehouse that they were allowed to renovate. It is so cool to see what our God can do through one person and a supportive team. We can’t wait to see how God continues to bless this community!

 

“There is nothing like the cowboy community. Our people are coming faithfully and bringing their friends. Our guys are turning into leaders. But it’s not just a headcount, it’s life-changing events in people's lives.” - Chance Watson