Boat Church - Faith on the Water with Pastor Zack Martin artwork
Lure of the Lake

Boat Church - Faith on the Water with Pastor Zack Martin

  • 37:11
  • June 12th 2026

When most people think about going to church on Sunday morning, they picture pews, stained glass windows, and a traditional sanctuary.


But what if church looked a little different?


What if your Sunday morning began with a beautiful sunrise over Lake Oconee, the gentle sound of water lapping against the shore, and a worship service where some people arrive by car… and others arrive by boat?


That’s exactly what’s happening at Camp Collinswood on Lake Oconee, where a unique ministry known as Boat Church is creating a new way for people to connect with their faith, their community, and God’s creation.


My guest today is Pastor Zack Martin of Madison First United Methodist Church. We’ll talk about his journey into ministry, what brought him to our area, and how a pastor from Madison found himself helping launch one of the most uniquely Lake Oconee worship experiences you’ll find anywhere.


We’ll also explore the story behind Boat Church, why it’s resonating with people from across the lake area, and how this casual, welcoming service is reaching people who may never have felt comfortable walking through the doors of a traditional church.


Whether you’re a person of faith, someone searching for community, or just curious about what happens when church meets lake life, I think you’re going to enjoy this conversation.


Guest: Rev. Zack Martin - Senior Pastor, First United Methodist Church of Madison

Website: https://madisonfumc.com/first-boat-church-service/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 706-342-3325


Sponsors:

Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance

https://mydowntownagency.com/


Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit

https://loffc.net/


Second Chance Boutique

https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

Lure of the Lake

Lake Oconee, Georgia, located halfway between Augusta and Atlanta, is a man-made paradise with incredible beauty that makes it a great vacation destination for people of all ages. More than that, though, it's a community for those that are looking for a peaceful life filled with nature and beauty.

I, myself, am a member of that community. I moved to Reynolds in 2020 and started to hear the incredible stories of its residents. Join me, now, as we take a plunge into some fascinating stories of the many well-lived lives of our community and learn why they were Lured to the Lake.