As Gary Cardwell looked around at his empty bookshelves, cleaned-out desk and file cabinet in late August, emotions flooded in. After 12 years as director of missions of Etowah Baptist Association (EBA) — a role he said he feels “blessed and privileged” to have served in — he retired Sept. 3.
“EBA has endured many changes over the past years and continues to be a very viable and much-needed ministry,” he said. “And as with any ministry, relationships are at the heart of everything. I have been immeasurably blessed by so many people.”
Cardwell also recently marked 36 years in ministry. Before coming to EBA, he served as pastor of three Alabama Baptist churches, most recently Fairfield Highlands in Midfield.
He and Carol, his wife of 46 years, plan to stay in the Gadsden area.
“We are looking forward to spending each day discovering what God has for us in the future,” Cardwell said. For one thing, he’s looking forward to devoting more time to his ministry as a law enforcement chaplain, a role he’s held for nearly two decades.
Cardwell is also available for supply preaching and interim pastorates. To contact him, call 256-393-7044.
Share with others: