Our Staff
Before coming to The Orchard, Blake spent many years working in ministry in both Amory and Clinton, MS. He also worked three summers at Camp Lake Stephens while in college, and met his future wife, Beverly (originally from Tupelo) while both were counselors. He has a deep appreciation for Oxford and Lafayette County even though he graduated from Mississippi State University.
Blake enjoys the outdoors, movies, good television shows, and college sports. He does not like writing bios about himself in the 3rd person. Beverly is passionate about running, reading, October Road and being with her family.
They have two girls, Addison (6) and Ella (3) and are expecting their 3rd child in March.
As Pastor of Community Life, Blake will help people get plugged in to the heart of our church, through discipleship and community. Check out Blake’s blog or email him.
Pat Ward was born in Oxford but spent most of his life in Tupelo, MS. He earned a bachelors degree from Mississippi State in Psychology. Pat has a heart for those who have never experienced the beauty and grace of God and he dreams about a church in Oxford where real life change can happen. Pat enjoys tennis, Frasier reruns, the information superhighway, bluesy music and clever people. (email)
His wife, Sarah, is from Starkville, MS. She has a heart for missions which has taken her to Costa Rica, Mexico, and Guatemala for a month. Sarah takes very seriously God's call to care for orphans and widows. She likes fruit smoothies, salami, Grey's and movies that aren't too scary. (email)
Pat and Sarah were married on December 17, 2005.
They are very much in love.
Pat and Sarah Ward
Lead Pastor
Worship Leader
Matthew is the worship leader here at the Orchard. Originally from Louisville, MS, he moved to Oxford to attend Ole Miss. He led worship at the Wesley Foundation Campus Ministry for a few years and at Grenada FUMC. He's excited to be a part of the Church and the whole community of Oxford.
Matthew loves Indian food, making music, reading and orange juice. (Email him)
Matthew is also a singer/songwriter.
Check out his website: www.matthewclark.net
Matthew Clark
Community Life Pastor
Blake and Beverly Thompson
