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  • David Laughlin

    Fred Rider
January 14, 2010

Eager anticipation to continue ministry

David Lauglin

DUNCAN — West Side Christian Church is not new to Duncan, it has been around since 1953. Its pastor, however, Fred Rider, is. Rider stepped into the position that has been void for 14 months. Interim pastors have filled the void but WSCC has a new shepherd who is ready to continue what others before him have started.

This year’s New Year’s celebration didn’t just usher in a new year, it ushered in a new pastor. Rider officially took his post as pastor Jan. 1.

Rider is a product of Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa. He finished his Masters in 1979, with a Masters of Divinity. Rider’s theological training was split because of a tour of duty in the Army. He served in the security agency while in the Army from 1969 to 1973.

Rider grew up in Ardmore, where he spent much of his time in church.

“Being from Ardmore, Duncan is nice because you are in the same area,” Rider said. “The people here are very friendly.”

Rider is also educated in Christian education, philosophy and language. He received his license in 1973, and was ordained in 1979. He has served as pastor for six churches in various locations throughout Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico. While in New Mexico, Rider was a ski instructor. Rider is fluent in other languages too, “God really gave me a gift,” Rider said.

Rider has three children, Jill, Adam and Kathryn. His wife is the executive director of Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Oklahoma. Rider is also the grandfather of five. His youngest daughter Kathryn is engaged to be married in September.

“I have always felt an individual needs to be comfortable with the one who calls them to do something,” Rider said. “I know who I am called by and I know who equips me.” Rider has a deep rooted dedication to the work of the ministry. “I made the commitment a long time ago.”

Rider has always been involved with the Disciples of Christ. “We believe there is no creed by Christ and no book but the Bible,” Rider said.

Through the DOC denomination, Rider knew most of WSCC’s former pastors personally.

On average, WSCC has about 75 to 100 people in attendance. “It may appear small but so many people love a small intimate church,” Rider said.

During his first service, Rider asked the congregation to bow their heads and pray with him. As he was praying a young infant began making sounds.

“I asked God to let us hear better. I love having children in the church,” Rider said. “It shouldn’t be an inconvenience.”

Rider appreciates the congregation’s care of the church. “They have kept the church in great condition,” Rider said. “The children’s church room is painted in bright colors. It’s something that the kids will love.”

Rider has learned to appreciate the seemingly insignificant things in life. “What good is a sunset if you don’t know who made it?”

West Side Christian Church will hold an installation service Sunday to celebrate the installation of a new pastor. The church will have a luncheon after service.

The determination of WSCC’s members impresses Rider. “These people have such a heart to minister, they are so eager to do something it’s amazing,” Rider said. “The Word says, Serve the Lord with gladness. The people in this church have got that down.”



— David Laughlin is a reporter for The Duncan Banner. He can be reached at 580-255-5354, Ext. 144, or via e-mail at david.laughlin@duncanbanner.com.

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