Sunspots
Sunspots are highlights of the many ministries and missions happening on the surface of the Sun – That is, the Synod of the Sun. A region of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) with ALOT of dynamic and hopeful ministry happening in the name of Jesus Christ. We are Presbyterians in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Sunspots can be anything from small congregational ministries, regional networks to international missions. They are caused by the interactions with the Holy Spirit. Like the cap on a soda bottle: shake it up, and you can generate a big eruption! Sunspots occur over the 11 presbyteries in the synod with intense Holy Spirit activity, and when that energy is released, solar flares and big impact can erupt from Sunspots. We pray that you will find inspiration, resources, community and connection in the Sun.
Sunspots
Embracing the New Reality - Rev. Stewart Smith
Today, we’re speaking with General Presbyter Rev. Stewart Smith from the Presbytery of Arkansas. Stewart is a lifelong Presbyterian who was born as a preacher’s kid in Charlotte, NC. He moved to Arkansas in the first grade and grew up in the Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church in Forest City.
He graduated from Trinity University and after several years of work with Diamond Shamrock, he experienced a call to the ministry and attended Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
He has served as the Associate Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Fort Smith, AR and as Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Springdale, serving there until accepting the call to become the General Presbyter in October of 2015.
Stewart is married to Laura, an elementary teacher in Maumelle and they have two sons, Ryan and Alex. In his spare time, Stewart is a runner, jogger, biker, golfer, and just a general sports guy.