Moreland, Jr., Byrl J.
1/1/2000
| To know Byrl J. Moreland was to experience having your life made richer by his faithful and effective ministry. His life was filled with good times and laughter, and who can forget his mischievous smile. Byrl was born in Homer, Louisiana and it was there that he committed his life to Christian ministry. He attended Centenary College and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1951 with a B.A. Degree. During this time he married Martha Law and served in a student pastoral appointment at the Bethany-Keithville Charge. Continuing his preparation for ministry, he enrolled in Candler School of Theology and graduated with a Master of Divinity Degree in 1954. Upon returning to Louisiana, Byrl was appointed to the Doyline-McIntyre Charge to begin his full time ministry and outstanding service for 44 years in this conference. Other appointments included: Asbury, Lafayette; Trinity, Alexandria; Jena; Hammond; Lake Charles District Superintendent; Director Conference Council on Ministries; Aurora; Monroe District Superintendent; and Trinity, Ruston. He retired in 1995 and then served as Retired Associate at Blackwater, Baton Rouge. Byrl was a member of many Boards and Agencies throughout his ministry and was highly respected for his leadership and counsel. In recognition of his scholastic achievements, his keen mind, and his service to Louisiana Methodism, he was honored by Centenary College with a Doctor of Ministry Degree in 1982. Byrl was a man of many talents and diverse interests: he had a wonderful tenor voice and sang in the Centenary College Choir; his love of music and fine arts brought him much joy across the years; he was an astute student of holy scripture, a good theologian, an able preacher and a capable administrator; he loved to tend his vegetable and flower gardens, and to bake fine breads; he was an avid reader; he enjoyed a good practical joke and his laughter was infectious. While being responsible to his ministry, he always found a way to spend time with Martha and their sons Robert and Richard. He journeyed with the boys in scouting, school, and church activities. They remember many rich experiences of family camping. While greatly missed by his family, Byrl shared wonderful years with them and left them a rich Christian faith and many happy memories. Byrl enjoyed all of life and now by faith is in the presence of the Lord whom he served faithfully. All of us who were touched by his ministry and friendship say, “Thanks be to God for the life of Byrl J. Moreland.” |
|
| Source: Journal Louisiana Conference, p. 261 By Donald J. Hall | |
