Over the past 10 years of Rev. Skarda’s leadership, Springdale First UMC has grown from 560 in worship to 925. The operating budget has more than doubled. The church has raised approximately 10 million dollars in capital funds, constructed 60,000 square feet in new buildings, renovated all existing buildings and added three additional city blocks and two office buildings to the campus. The church has provided greater visibility, additional parking and green space in downtown Springdale.

Rev. Skarda

Pontiac Church is Springdale First’s second campus. Eight years ago, the church inaugurated a weekly worship broadcast on the regional NBC affiliate. Worship services are viewed throughout northwest Arkansas, the River Valley and portions of Oklahoma and Missouri.

Springdale First is known for its outreach in the community. The “Bread of Life” ministry feeds 45,000 people every year, houses a free tax preparation office in northwest Arkansas and will manage the new “Community Gardens” project for the city.

Springdale First is a “Partner in Education.” The congregation has adopted two public schools: an elementary school with a largely disadvantaged student body and the alternative high school in the city that works with students in danger of dropping out because of pregnancy, drugs, language barriers and other challenges. The congregation funds, prepares and serves weekly meals to students. Church members provide mentoring and tutoring services.

Rev. Skarda is an avid jogger, running a 5k five times per week. He enjoys hiking, reading, movies and travel. He and his wife Karen have three grown children. They love being grandparents.

“It’s our true passion,” Rev. Skarda said. ” While the term ‘grandparent’ can evoke images of being ‘over-the-hill’ — becoming grandparents has literally made us feel ten years younger. We have all the joys of parenting with none of the hassles. It’s great!”

Rev. Skarda served as minister of outreach at Pulaski Heights UMC, 1989-1992, with responsibilities for worship, missions and evangelism. He served as senior pastor at Henderson UMC in Little Rock, 1992 to 2000, before moving to Springdale.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at University of Central Arkansas and a Master of Divinity at Duke University.

Receptions to welcome Rev. & Mrs. Skarda will be held, and the congregation will be invited to attend. Farewell receptions also will be held for Rev. Vic & Dr. Freddie Nixon.

Join the growing number of couples of all ages for the next monthly Second Sunday Supper, offered by the Marriage Enrichment Council.

The March 14 program will encourage healthier interactions with our spouses, which in turn provides more positive marital models for our children.
Keeping Your Relationship Free of Games, Power Struggles and Creating Win-Win Outcomes, will be presented by Don Streit, LCSW, and Nancy Milbourn, LCSW, local therapists in private practice. Don and Nancy will provide information related to keeping our relationships healthy and balanced. The presentation will also give us an opportunity to interact with our partners in new ways as we all search for the most meaningful relational experience.
There is no charge for the seminar and child care, but the meal is $8.50. Call the church office at 664-3600 for last-minute availability of reservations.

Many women do not have swaddling clothes with which to welcome their child into the world. Layette kits provide basic supplies for their baby’s needs. A $35 donation goes directly to relief efforts. Or you may find instructions for assembling a layette kit at UMCOR Layette Kit.

Birthing kits provide the essential items to promote a safe, clean delivery and to encourage good aftercare. An $8 donation to UMCOR provides a birthing kit. Or you may find instructions for assembling a brithing kit at UMCOR Birthing Kit.

To contribute to UMCOR, make your check to PHUMC, mark it “UMCOR” in the lower left area for notes, and drop it in the collection plate at church. 100% of your donation goes directly to relief efforts. Overhead costs are covered through other gifts.