I came to make a real decision to accept Jesus in August, 1980.  Through many trials, yet also many triumphs, after 30 years, I can sincerely declare that Jesus is my First Love as well as my Lord and Savior.  My prayer is that throughout my life and ministry, I will always remain steadfast, faithful, and always seeking his will for my life and ministry. I experienced God's call on my life initially in December 1982, at the Wesleyan Youth Convention in Urbana, IL.  Though at the time I was not altogether certain as to what exactly that calling meant.  Even after I got saved, the last vocation I sought, was pastoral ministry.  Even after my initial calling, I continued to struggle with the idea of becoming a pastor.  However, from that time on, through much soul-searching, frustration as well as encouragement from Christian friends, I finally relented and did what God wanted me to do instead of what I thought he wanted me to do.  Because I said "yes" to God's calling to preach the Word and shepherd his flock, God has truly blessed my life and ministry beyond what I ever imagined. On a personal note, may I say that it is a joy to be serving Jesus Christ and His kingdom here at Bethel and Palestine.  To this I will, keep on "rocking" for the Solid Rock !!!   Grace and Peace, David, aka Preacherman     Educational Background: Southern Wesleyan University, B.A. Psychology, 1984 Asbury Theological Seminary, Master of Divinity, 1988