COAL GROVE — He began leading the church’s youth ministry. Now, the Rev. Brad Jenkins is shepherding the whole flock at Memorial United Methodist Church in Coal Grove.

Jenkins, 25, was installed as minister at the church June 28.

“I grew up in Coal Grove and entered the ministry two years ago. I felt the call of God in my life, felt him calling me into full-time ministry,” Jenkins said. He became youth minister at the church in 2007.

Jenkins’ flock is a busy one. Right now members are planning for the annual fall festival that will be in early September.

That is one of many outreach activities the church undertakes. Jenkins said he wants the church to stay busy bringing the message of hope to the community around it.

“I hope to be able to continue to reach out to the community and share Christ’s love through all that we have and I hope to reach out to those people who do not have a church. I hope people will look at us and see Christ’s love no matter what we’re doing in the community.”

Jenkins is also busy planning a wedding. On November 28, he will wed fiancé Megan Collins. The Rev. Steve Judson, pastor at Memorial for several years, will perform the ceremony.