Rita Sweatt  

 "Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you, your strong right hand holds me securely." Psalm 63:7-8

History of Ministry

Rita Sweatt invited Jesus Christ into her heart to be the Lord of her life at the young age of 7 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  She was fortunate to grow up in a Christian home led by her father, J. M. Wood, a Baptist Minister of Music, and Gail Wood, a stay-at-home mom.  She and her brother Gary were actually saved the very same night and later baptized together.  She eventually made her home in Jackson, Mississippi, where she met Lloyd Sweatt, her high school sweetheart.  After graduating from Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in music, she and Lloyd were married.  He was in business, and she was a music teacher for several years.  The Lord persistently and sweetly led Lloyd to the realization that his purpose on Earth was not in the business world, but that he had been created to pastor.  Accepting the calling, Lloyd and Rita went to New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where he completed his Master's degree.  The pastor/pastor's wife journey began.  Rita spent the next 8 years being full-time mom to their daughters, Megan, Molly, and Shelby.  After moving to Amory, Mississippi, Rita was led by the Holy Spirit to begin a Bible Study for ladies in the community.  Eleven women met in 1999 and began organizing, praying, and studying the Word.  Rita was assigned the task of teaching, and this set the foundation in her life for a love of the Word of God that ignited a new depth to her relationship with Jesus Christ.  The Amory Ladies Community Bible Study began to grow and presently has enrolled over 130 women in 2008.  Praise God!!!

Rita began speaking for ladies in retreat settings and church meetings.  In 2001 she spoke on 5 special occasions to such groups.  Rita spoke for approximately 50 events in 2006, many more in 2007, and 2008 looks like the busiest year ever!  The amazing aspect of all of this is that the one who is the most shocked by it all is Rita!  This was not something she set out to do or has promoted.  The Lord has done it all!  She has accepted the wonderful privilege of being used and is grateful for the opportunities He has given her to share her sense of humor, passion for the Lord and His Word, and her musical gifts to encourage women in their walk with Christ.