By Morgan Mizell

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Kevin Campbell, 20, believes his age is an asset in his ministry.

“I began sharing the message at my church at 11,” said Campbell, who currently serves as the associate pastor of Springfield Baptist Church. “A year later, I began preparing the lessons for Sunday school and speaking at ACCS, the school I attended.”

Campbell began receiving invitations to speak and share with other congregations and groups.

“I have not gone through any training for what I am doing,” Campbell said. “I do think I am doing what I was called to do.”

Campbell recalls the exact date and moment of God’s call upon his life.

“I was at the Mississippi Baptist Youth Night on July 15, 2011, and it came time for the invocation and prayer time,” Campbell said. “I looked at some of my friends that were there with me, and I could tell they would go if I would — I did. There we were praying for ourselves and each other and I heard God speak to me, and he told me He wanted me to preach. I surrendered, and here I am.”

Campbell has faced opposition on his journey in his faith and his calling.

“I think the single most common criticism, if you could call it that, has been people’s opposition to my age,” Campbell said. “They say I am too young, and I have a lot to learn. I know I don’t know everything, I admit that, but I don’t let what others think dissuade me in my calling.”

Campbell is enrolled in Alcorn State University pursuing a degree in health and physical education.

“I want to be a teacher and a coach,” Campbell said. “I do, however want to stay involved in the church because I think it is what God has called me to do.”

Campbell stays busy outside of the church as well.

“I am actually coaching now at ACCS,” Campbell said. “I help with the football, soccer and track programs. I also coach AYA (American Youth Association) basketball.

“I have the opportunity, while I am coaching, to share with the young people,” Campbell said. “I think it is easier for them to talk to me, and I am able to relate to them better because of my age.”

Campbell said he thinks he appeals to the youth, because he can relate to them. He does feel he is able to connect to others in the congregation as well.

“I have been told I am very traditional in my preaching style,” Campbell said. “I think I just have a different energy and a different look, so I appeal to all members.”

Campbell had the opportunity to preach while on a mission trip in Honduras.

“I have often joked I felt like Billy Graham,” said Campbell, referring to the American evangelical Christian evangelist. “I was there speaking to this large crowd of over 200 people who did not speak my language. I had a translator, and I would speak a while and then wait for her to tell them what I said. It was just a very unique experience.”

Campbell spends time in prayer every week about the message he will deliver on Sunday.

“Sometimes, I will have a message planned all week,” Campbell said. “Other times, I will just wait for the Lord to direct me to a message, and that may be Saturday night before I feel like He has told me what to preach about. I do think that sermons should come from God and not from man.”

Campbell spends much of his time with the youth of the church.

“I teach the youth Sunday school,” Campbell said. “I also help with activities and fundraisers they may have, but I am not the youth pastor. But, I think the youth are comfortable coming to me and I am here for them.”

Campbell believes that today’s youth are facing a number of obstacles, but in his opinion the idea that being a Christian is not cool may be the biggest.

“I think youth find themselves being judged for trying to live their faith,” Campbell said. “They are OK with going to church, but when they do not give into the popular ideas out there concerning issues like promiscuity, alcohol and drugs they may be shunned by their friends.”

Campbell said he would like to see more kids encouraging one another to live the Christian life. He tries to lead by example.

“I know kids get encouragement inside the church,” Campbell said. “When they are outside of the church doors they face so much. I try to live a life that the kids can look to as an example.”

Campbell recommends prayer to any youth who may feel the ministry as their calling.

“Pray and listen,” Campbell said. “It is important to talk to God about it, but more than anything, it is important to listen. Get away from everyone and everything and have that conversation.”

Campbell said he is also available to talk to anyone about his experience and listen to them if they would like to talk about going into ministry.

Campbell invites everyone to Springfield’s services, which are at 11 a.m. Sunday and 7 p.m. Wednesday. Other services and classes are also available.