Called to Pastor. Equipped to Lead.

I was called to preach God's Word before I could drive a car. My first hands on experience with ministry was going with my Great Uncle, Pastor McFadden on visitations to the sick and home bound. My first thought of doing ministry was that of Evangelism. I did that for a little bit in my younger years, but I never let the roots take hold. It was not long until I left my calling and tried to find my own way.

Years later, lots of years, God once again grabbed my attention. This time is not like anything I have ever felt or known my whole life. Where before my faith in Jesus was merely an afterthought, today it is my life-blood. I do not even want to think of where I may be without the Love of Christ. God has given me a heart to Pastor and disciple a group of people to do the kingdom work of God.

I have an amazing family. My wife Courtney and I have three sons, and we have recently adopted my niece after my sister passed onto Glory. It has been a crazy ride thus far and we know the best is yet to come, by His Grace.

I believe the church needs a vision that is set on that pathway forward. I believe we need a plan of execution to reach the lost, not for any other reason than to build the Kingdom of God. As church leaders, we should be aware of anything that is going on in our flocks, but that does not mean we should be "hands on" in everything in our flock. We should disciple members, and team leaders in such a way to share the vision, equip them with the tools and knowledge, and empower them to move at the direction of the Holy Spirit. To be a successful church in today's situation, it takes a team of like minded and dedicated people who will see this through until we are moved elsewhere.

I believe the church is in danger today of compromising values of God's word to attract people. This statement is made very carefully, as I am aware it does not apply across the board. I was called to preach at a very young age, and my very first "ministry" appointment was loading up in the car with my Great Uncle, SA McFadden (PCG, deceased) and going on Visitations in many homes, hospitals, and nursing homes. I'll never forget those words he said, "Ministry is only partially behind the pulpit". I suppose I am old fashioned, because I still believe that today. I feel that we must never change the message, but at times we need to deliver it differently to be in the forefront of the situation.

I have been corporately trained in Information Systems, budgeting on a global scale, and managing million dollar projects. But more importantly, I have been taught to build successful teams and lead others so that we can achieve a common goal. The goal of my heart is not toward gain in the eyes of this world, but is now more focused than ever on building God's Kingdom. First and foremost being led by His Holy Spirit, then using the talents and skills He has given to further His Kingdom.