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A Greek word meaning an “utterance” or “thing said,” Rhema, when referenced in Christianity refers to Jesus Christ’s sayings.

Worshiping and reflecting upon those sayings is what the new congregation at Rhema Worship Center does.

Opening its doors on August 18^th Rhema’s pastor Woody Salter was a traveling evangelist and in a singing group for the past 20 years.

Salter said the Lord developed a pastor’s heart in him, so he accepted His calling, then became licensed and ordained.

Starting with a small Bible study group of about 10 people meeting at Woody’s house, their congregation began to grow to its current number of approximately 20 to 30.

With this growth Rhema Worship Center was built.

Helping him every step of the way for the past 20 years is Woody’s wife Vanessa or “Sista V” as she’s called.

The Salters have been in ministry their entire married life, so breathing new life into their community of Odenville was a natural progression.

Striving to bless the community Rhema Worship Center is mission oriented, not only connecting with others overseas, but in their local communities as well.

Recently Rhema Worship Center hosted a completely free yard sale at the Odenville Civic Center.

“It’s an opportunity for us to witness to people coming through the door,” said Salter. “But best of all we’re just trying to bless people.”

Outreach plays a big part in Rhema Worship Center.

Anthony Baumann is Rhema’s Outreach Coordinator.

 “In September we started our Fifth Quarter gatherings for teens as an alternative for them to have something to do after football games,” he said. “Our youth are a big part of this.”

The second Sunday of every month serves as Youth Sunday where you’ll hear their testimonies.

“Knowing and trusting God, it was amazing to hear,” said Woody. “It solidifies the calling to start a church in Odenville.”

A strong proponent of doing what The Word says, Woody said, “If you live by that alone everything else works itself out.”

Agreeing, Baumann added, “If you want to know if your message is getting through, live by those words.”

Adult Class Educator Mike Echols said seeing the work they were doing in Odenville made him want to be a part of it.

Lynn Sherrer, Praise Team Leader, was also intrigued and now calls Rhema Worship Center her home church.

Bobby Bowers is Rhema’s deacon, and his wife Tina is the secretary. Woody says both are invaluable charter members and intricate in starting the church.

Looking for the Holy Spirit to guide them in all truth, Woody says he preaches the true word of God.

“I will not condemn you, but you’ll hear the truth.”

Baumann adds, “We’re not your typical church leadership. We’re very forward minded.”

Woody added, “We don’t sit on the sidelines.”

Incorporating surprise services on Sunday night, Woody says he started this to keep people from getting stuck in a rut.

“We’ve done popcorn preaching where you’re given the scripture on the spot,” he said. “You’d be amazed at how God uses people.”

Learning lessons or as Rhema teens like to call it JAM (Jesus in the AM) begins at 9:45 a.m. on Sunday morning with worship following at 10:45 a.m.

Wednesdays Bible Study’s at 7 p.m. while Youth Worship also takes place at 7 p.m.

Focusing on your relationship with God, Rhema Worship Center’s goal is “to establish the work so they can benefit the community and reach as many people they can for the cause of Christ.”

In this CHRISTmas season learn about Him and discover a new way to worship.

Rhema Worship Center is located at 13260 Hwy 411, Suite 200 in Odenville.

Visit their Facebook page at Rhema Worship Center or call 205-602-2395 for more information.