I first met Pastor Carmen (not knowing he was a pastor) at ATI. I could immediately tell this gentleman was just that. I could tell he had spent time with the Lord because his conversation was filled with care for the individual, even when his day as a machinist wasn't going so well. At my first interaction with him, I was already dealing with hardships in my life.

His invitation to pay him a visit at church led to the Lord opening so many doors. Pastor Carmen was a friend and a mentor. The Lord revealed to me that this ministry (Church of God) would be a stepping stone toward attending Carlisle Bible Cam, which led to me becoming a pastor under his caring guidance.

He was very supportive of me and my daughter when she entered the United States Air Force. There are not enough words for me to tell everyone how this man truly had a shepherd's heart for people. There is one word I feel that would describe the personality of Pastor Carmen, and that word to me is "meekness."

Pastor Carmen was a man who never seemed to get rattled, even when the enemy would attack with great persecution. You would never hear Pastor Carmen sound like James and John when the Samaritans would not allow them to walk through their land.

I could almost hear Pastor Carmen saying, "Hey Lord, maybe we could offer them an olive branch with some food; should I bring my guitar?" He always looked for the peace in the midst of big storms the enemy would stir up. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the Butler family and the many hearts who are grieving because they loved and will miss Pastor Carmen.

I also remember the blessed conversations I had with Pastor Carmen's wife, Rose, as she passed before him. I recall the very first time I preached my first message; I remember asking Rose, "How much time do I have?" She paused for a moment, smiled, and said, "Say what you have to say, sit down, and shut up." She then gave me a big smile and a hug. She knew I had butterflies in my stomach. It truly broke the ice around my heart. I knew I could stand up there and be relaxed.

Even though someone had told me earlier that week, "Don't worry about what you shall say, for it shall be given to you in that very hour," of course, his words carried more power, calm, and peace than hers. But he still used her to walk up to me and show love to the brethren. (Smile).

May the Lord bring all the AVCOG longtime members great comfort until we all see Pastor Carmen again. May the Lord guide you all through this time of grief. I will never forget the encouraging words he and his loving wife, Sister Rose, had for me.

With those "In Christ," it's never goodbye; it's "I'll see you later." As my own deceased mother would say, "See you later, alligator," and I would hug her and respond, "After while, crocodile." It sounded great to me. (Smile).
 

Pastor Todd Boxley

Try Jesus Ministry
PO Box 241
Wexford, PA. 15090
TJForlife.com
412-616-3572