Some people think that pastors live on a different plane of existence than “regular” folk. I’d like  to let you in on a secret. I am painfully ordinary. I am just a man who has been transformed by an encounter with a loving and gracious God. As a teenager, I knelt at an altar and surrendered my life to Jesus. That one decision has made all the difference in the world. As I experienced the grace and beauty of Jesus, I became consumed with the desire to share the love and forgiveness that I had found with as many people as possible. That was the birth of God’s call on my life. 

In 1990, I made one of the smartest decisions of my life (second only to my decision to follow  Jesus). It was the decision to marry my wife, Julie, and I’m still not sure how I tricked her into marrying me. Julie has become my confidant, my encourager, my shoulder to cry on, and my partner in ministry. After twelve years of marriage, we didn’t think we were going to be able to have any children. But in 2002, we were “surprised” by the birth of our oldest daughter, Erin. Our youngest daughter, Abby, arrived nearly four years later. Being a husband and a father has taught me more about God’s love than all of the books I have read put together. 

My family and I are on a quest to know Jesus deeply and to follow him wholeheartedly. That  journey has led through Missouri, Kansas, Idaho, Nevada, and South Carolina. In 2018, the road took another turn as we felt the leading of God to move to Marion to become the pastor of Restoration Life. I can’t think of anything that would bring more joy into my life than leading this great church into the future that God has planned for it. I invite you to join us on our journey. It may not always be easy, but it will be worth it. 

GETTING TO KNOW DAVE

What’s your favorite hobby? 

Photography. I especially enjoy it when I can combine photography with my family. Everyone in the family has their own camera and we go on “photo walks” together. I love it!

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? 

That’s a tough one because I love to travel, but I think I’d like to travel in Europe. I’m fascinated by history and would love to walk in some of the places I’ve read about. (And yes, I know that makes me a geek.)

What do you like to watch on TV? 

Almost anything sports related. I love the drama of competition. I also enjoy some of the crime dramas like Criminal Minds. Although, I have to admit that since I am the only male in our household, I sometimes get outvoted and end up watching something unmanly (but don’t tell anyone).

What do you like to read? 

It all starts with the Bible, but after that I like to read anything that makes me think or moves my soul in some way.

What is the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you? 

Nice try.

What keeps you motivated? 

Hope. I have a strong belief that there are no “throw-away” people and God wants to use our church to make His message of hope and forgiveness known to people who are hurting. I really believe that the best is yet to come and if we’ll keep pressing into Jesus, He will do something beyond our wildest dreams.