I am a bi-vocational pastor – in that I work two jobs.  I have worked as a math teacher in Sullivan County for over 15 years and I have been in church work since 1980.  I began in January of 2013 with Unaka just filling in until they found a permanent pastor.  After serving as interim I became the permanent pastor in April of 2014.

Born in West Virginia and raised in Chattanooga, TN, I became a believer at the age of 9.  While in college I responded to the call to preach and just shortly after college was ordained in a Southern Baptist Church in the Atlanta Georgia area.  Along with my wife, Darla, I have served churches in various capacities (music, orchestra (trumpet), youth, education, administration, television, radio, associate pastor, senior pastor) both full-time, part-time and as volunteers. My education includes a Business degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, a Master in Preaching and Biblical Studies from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Education from Milligan College. 
Out of my personal history and heritage, I am bi-vocational by choice.  I believe in putting the maximum amount of resources into the ministry.  I believe scripture is the basis for doctrine (what we believe) and ministry (how we behave).