In your opinion, what is Christianity?

Christianity is the belief that Jesus Christ is the only way to a restored relationship with God and the source of eternal life.

What does it mean to be a Christian?

To be a Christian means, “I choose to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ.” Some churches and individuals teach or act like this means that we can achieve a level of sinlessness that earns us a place in heaven and in my opinion only serves to keep us focused on what we are or are not able to do. I believe that being a Christian means that we do our best at doing what Christ wants us to do and help others seek God as we do.

What has being a pastor taught you?

That people don’t respect Pastors who are not real. Heck, I try to follow Jesus everyday and mess up. Why pretend I don’t? Being a Pastor has taught me that I am not better than you. I just have a different job, which is to help anyone who wants to find God get closer. I don’t mean to make an excuse for my sins, just acknowledge that I still do sin far more than I want and every new day is another opportunity to please my Heavenly Father.

You mentioned the why in your bio. Could you explain that a little?

God is not trying to spoil our fun. With every “thou shalt not,” there is a plan and reason why God does not want us to do it. In fact, I believe that God knows if we do what he tells us not to do, He (God) knows we will enjoy life less, not more. Many churches are good at telling us, “don’t do that.” I want to fill in the why we ourselves don’t really want to do something.

In your opinion, how is Rock Spring different from other churches in the area?

Rock Spring is real. Come as you are because we are as we are. Church should never be about judging each other but supporting each other.

As someone who has been ‘burned’ by other churches, I am a bit nervous about visiting Rock Spring. What information or advice can you give me to ease my fear?

I still sometimes fear what others think about me so all I can suggest is to try what I do… Just don’t care! I don’t care what anyone thinks of me except God and….oh yes, my wife, Kathy.

You seem to be focused on children. What is your vision for the future in terms of activities and programs for children?

Kids are the energy in a church. Jesus said, “don’t stop the kids from coming to me.” I don’t want to grow old with a bunch of other 50-somethings like me. I want to have an active part in preparing the next generation of church leaders who, by the way, are kids. I love being around them. I had some parents ask me, “how are we supposed to keep or kids from running in church when you are chasing them,” to which I answered, “they started it.” Church should be a place kids want to be, how else can you expect them to want to listen to what church leaders say about how they should live?

What is it that makes you qualified to lead your church? Is it your education, calling, passion, experience?

I don’t have a clue! LOL I’ve been to Seminary, I have 20+ years in ministry and I still feel unqualified, but I love my job!

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