Spirituality is alive and well in South Walton

January 16, 2008 By Deborah Wheeler

Even though this area is known for its wine connoisseurs and well-heeled bars, according to area pastors, the local churches are also thriving.

Ronnie McBrayer, pastor of A Simple Faith in Seagrove, said things are going well at his church in the few months time it has been established.

“We haven't set any growth records but certainly haven't set out to do so. We have between 60 and 100 each week in worship. From a spiritual perspective, the church is doing quite well as we try to re-imagine church as an intentional community that seeks only to worship God, follow Christ and serve the world,” he said.

Just a few blocks away is Seaside Chapel, located in the resort town of Seaside. Pastor Jeff Miller said attendance at the chapel continues to grow.

“During the holiday weekend, we had more people in attendance outside in our tent and courtyard than were able to sit inside the chapel. The chapel and our tent were both full on Christmas Eve as well,” said Miller.

“We have a committed base of believers at the Chapel who care very deeply for God, and who are committed to the welfare of this community on every level,” he said.

In addition to Sunday worship, the Chapel offers a Bible Study on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m.

In Santa Rosa Beach, parishioners at Good News United Methodist have recently completed a new sanctuary and worship center for its congregation, which grew by 20 percent last year.

GNUMC sponsors a healthy list of events, activities and Bible studies during the week that are centered on its purpose of “going into the community (and the world) with God’s Good News, gather people together to experience God’s work here, grow in knowledge and love of God and give of ourselves and the good things God has given us.”

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