Richard Vaughn is a people person. "I love talking to people and meeting people," said the pastor of Mount Joy Church of God, 30 E. Main St. Richard took over as pastor on May 1, bringing with him an extensive background in ministry and counseling.

Richard's journey as a pastor began after attending Liberty University, where he eventually earned his master's degree in counseling. He has served as pastor at churches in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and most recently he wrapped up a three-year stint at Wilmington Community Evangelical Church in Hockessin, Del. His background includes working as a family counselor with Pennsylvania Counseling Services while also serving as pastor at Bainbridge Church of God, and he spent years working for Awana, a youth ministry program.

"I have been involved with Awana all my life," he remarked. He and his wife, Virginia, started an Awana program in the Philippines. "We both have a heart for Awana. We love Awana and we love kids."

In his new position at Mount Joy Church of God, Richard said he's eager to serve the town he's called home for the past seven years. "I love Mount Joy," he stated. "I love this little town. I am excited about reaching this town with the Gospel."

He added that he sees great things in store for the church. "What drew me to this church was their heart for God," he said. His goals include starting an Awana club in the fall and strengthening the children's ministry. One of his first steps toward this goal was to include a children's sermon in the Sunday service. "I'm looking for ways of reaching a younger congregation," he noted. "Sixty to 70% of our congregation is over the age of 50. I'm trying to focus on reaching out and reaching younger people."

When he's not at church, Richard loves to golf, and he also likes to read. He enjoys spending time with his family, which includes three grown children and 11 grandchildren as well as his wife of 46 years.

Of Virginia, he said he can't imagine a better partner by his side, noting that they grew up together and attended the same church. "I like to say we met in the nursery," he stated with a laugh. "We've known each other all our lives."

As he settles into his new role at Mount Joy Church of God, Richard knows one thing is certain: He will continue to connect with others. "I love working with people and talking to people," he said. "I just love spending time with people."

Mount Joy Church of God holds a Sunday worship service at 9 a.m., followed by Sunday school at 10:30 a.m. Bible study is offered at the church at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays.