Modern American culture is a study in selfishness, at least in some ways.

Evidence of this is all around us — and it’s not a new phenomenon.

Decades ago, fast food chains popularized the “have it your way” customization for all of us who were tired of scraping off the tiny onions and mayonnaise or other add-ons that we didn’t like.

Now, insurance companies promote “name your own price” policies.

The norm in our world is to have it our way — because we’re all special — or we’ll split and form our own group.

Evidence of this can be seen in splintered civic clubs, duplicative social groups and a myriad of similar churches.

So it was with great pleasure earlier this week when we read of just the opposite happening in our community. Rather than dividing so various groups could feel more in control, three area churches are joining forces and combining into one, new congregation.

This Sunday morning, the new church’s pastor, the Rev. LeRoy White, will take the pulpit of the aptly named New Beginnings Missionary Baptist Church. We’re proud of this group in our community and for the wonderful example they set for us all.

That same level of coming together is seen in other community groups of late, too, including the merging of the Ferriday and Vidalia chambers of commerce.

After years of working apart, our community — from business leaders to church leaders — are starting to work together toward a common goal. That’s refreshing and, if it continues, will set our area apart from others.