I was ready to give up the pastoral ministry in 1988 when I heard Dr. John H. Leith speak at a church in the city where I was serving. After reading his book, The Reformed Imperative: What the Church Has to Say that No One Else Can Say, I understood the message that ministers should simply focus on the competencies of preaching, teaching, and pastoral care.

From that point on, I was able to hold together a declining church in a changing urban neighborhood.I served my next congregation sixteen years until I retired where we experienced 33% growth and increased worship attendance 50%.

During such time, I applied these principles to ministry in the Army National Guard Chaplaincy which sustained me during mobilization for Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and as a senior supervisory chaplain after 911.

In response and deep gratitude, I am proud to be a supporter of the Foundation for Reformed Theology which I see as providing the best possible foundation and hope for the church, its leadership, and its future.