LANCASTER — After 61 years in the ministry, Morris Trayner is retiring as pastor of Gilbert’s Creek Baptist Church in Lancaster, where he served for 23 years.
Trayner, who began his ministry in 1952, preaching his first sermon at Bruner’s Chapel Baptist Chuch in Harrodsburg, will be honored at a service Sunday at Gilbert’s Creek. It will be his last service as pastor of the church.
“I’ve enjoyed my time,” Trayner said.
Over the course of his ministry, Trayner said he’s performed 101 wedding ceremonies and served as pastor of five churches besides Gilbert’s Creek; Ellers Chapel Baptist in Harrodsburg, Immanuel Baptist in Danville, Pleasant Ridge Baptist in Owenton and Calvary Hill Baptist in Stanford.
“I’m so thankful,” Trayner said.
Trayner plans to continue serving in the ministry, as a supply preacher and leading music in revivals, but will no longer serve in a pastoral role.
Of his ministry, Trayner said he has focused on always “helping others” in life and said he never cared what their past was, he simply wanted to help them.
He has worked in various capacities during his career, including serving on boards for Kentucky Baptist Convention and as moderator for Owen County and Lincoln County Baptist associations.
Everyone is invited to attend a reception in Trayner’s honor, 3-6 p.m. Sunday at Gilbert’s Creek Baptist Church on Ky. 39. For more information, call (859) 792-4063.
