Joel’s Jottings: "Celebrating Ministry"

Sixty years of ministry is a wonderful achievement! Reverend Rims Barber reached that milestone on October 1, 2022 at Fondren Presbyterian Church.

Judy Barber, Dr. Rims Barber, Dr. Joel Alvis, and Karl Barber after the recognition of Dr. Barber’s 60th ordination anniversary on October 2, 2022. | Photo by Stacy Clark

Originally from Chicago, Rims was ordained to serve a Presbyterian congregation in Davenport, Iowa, in October 1962, after having graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary. In 1964 he answered the call of the National Council of Churches to come to Mississippi and serve in the Freedom Summer Project of 1964. That work lasted only six weeks, but Rims was so moved by the people he served with, that he knew he would return. He came back in 1965 and has called Mississippi home ever since. Here he found fulfillment for his calling. [Read “Rims Barber” by Valerie Wells, Jackson Free Press, Oct. 20, 2011]

Rims has served with several agencies that have had a huge impact for the civil rights of all. He worked for voter registration and school desegregation as director of the Delta Ministry in Greenville, Mississippi. He later served the Children’s Defense Fund and Mississippi Human Services Coalition as an advocate for the poor and marginalized in society. He often has been seen in the halls of the State Legislature lobbying for legislation that addresses the social and moral needs of all the people of Mississippi.

In a recent prayer, Rims asked God that we might see more clearly the image of Christ in every other person. This encapsulates Rims’ calling and passion. His work has created a deep and profound legacy. But he knows the work is not over. There is still the need to speak words of truth to power and mercy to injustice.

Rims and his wife, Judy, have been part of the Fondren Presbyterian community since the 1970s. It was a privilege for the congregation to be able to celebrate his 60th ordination anniversary on Sunday.

Read the Resolution of Commendation for Reverend Rims Barber Appreciation Day.