As an elder at Community Church, my primary focus is now on the Women's Ministry and the Deacons. Previously, I was involved with the Children's Ministry, but my role has shifted to better align with the church's evolving needs. Additionally, I help oversee the deacons, ensuring we serve our community effectively.
Being an elder is a significant responsibility. It means acting as a representative for our church body, supporting the pastor's vision, and being a liaison between him and the congregation. It's about fostering unity and ensuring we collectively pursue our mission.
Family is a cornerstone of my life. I've been married to my wonderful wife, Billy, for almost 55 years. Together, we have three children—two sons and a daughter—and ten grandchildren, ranging from 14 to 22 years old.
We joined Community Church about 15 years ago. We were previously attending Parkside Church in Bainbridge, but due to my cataract issues making the drive difficult, we sought a church closer to home in Norton. A family member recommended Community Church, and after hearing Pastor Mike Ripka preach, we felt an immediate connection and have been here ever since.
In my professional life, I'm a chiropractor, a calling that has allowed me to help people with their physical ailments since 1976. This role has also given me opportunities to share my faith and counsel patients spiritually. Additionally, I've been teaching an adult class at Community Church for about 12 years, which has been a deeply rewarding experience, seeing many grow in their spiritual journeys.
Outside of church and work, I enjoy playing golf, reading, and assembling puzzles. Though I only started golfing about four years ago, it has become a fun pastime. I love reading a mix of Bible studies, novels, and historical works. My puzzle-making hobby is quite special—I often glue and frame them, decorating our home and giving them as gifts.
A resource that has greatly enriched my life is "The Bible Recap" by Tara-Leigh Cobble, a Bible reading plan my wife and I follow together. This year-long devotional journey not only deepens our understanding of the scriptures but also strengthens our bond. It includes daily readings, summaries, and thought-provoking questions, helping us appreciate both the Old and New Testaments' profound significance.
I'm grateful for the journey God has led me on and for the Community Church family. Together, we continue to grow, support each other, and live out our faith in meaningful ways.
Icons from Freepik and Noun Project
