O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.  Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. Psalm 63:1-5 

When asked to write about an “ordinary saint,” my first thought was our beloved Pastor and friend, the late Reverend Doctor William LeClair Arthur. Although we all know there was nothing ordinary about Bill! 

The scripture above references everything about Bill that impacted us all—stalwart faithfulness to God, the natural ability to provide spiritual guidance in shepherding our congregation through joyful and challenging times, devoted love of family and friends, a life filled with travel, exploration and learning, a passion for music, and the enthusiastic enjoyment of good food and conversation. His life was an expression of his love and service to God and mankind. He wasn’t just a Pastor—he was a Minister—and he taught me there was a big difference! Bill was a scholar and gentleman of kindness, grace, and humility. I shall always cherish our friendship, bonds of affection, and warm memories of shared experiences with a grateful heart.

Linda West 

About the Contributor

Linda West is a Project Coordinator with Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System.  She has been a member of First Presbyterian Church Spartanburg for over 20 years, and serves as an Elder and member of the Officer Placement, Endowment Advancement, and Congregational Nominating Committees.