Hey folks. Here’s my story in a nutshell. I was born and reared in Cleveland County. I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior at age nine, and was baptized at Beaver Dam Baptist Church just west of Shelby. I graduated from Crest High School way back in the good ole days! I have earned three degrees from Gardner-Webb University over the course of 30 years, all in biblical studies and ministry. I have enjoyed a 35 year career in the gospel ministry – serving four churches in Cleveland County. The first half of my ministry was in the area of youth and discipleship, and the second half was as a senior pastor. I am now in the “third half,” joyfully serving here at Hope Community Church in the area of pastoral care and counseling. ​ I have been married to Sandy, a Cleveland County native, for just over 30 years. We have two children, Abby and Clayton, who were both married in 2019. ​ A recurring theme in my life’s story is Cleveland County. My roots are deep in this place. Not only are my roots deep here, but my passion for ministry is as well. I have been on numerous short-term mission trips both foreign and domestic and have loved them all. But my mission field is…you got it…Cleveland County.