My Story
I was the last of 11 children and lived on a farm in Iowa. My parents were Christians, and Bible reading, prayer, and church attendance were a given in our home.
I received Christ into my life at a summer camp in Cedar Falls, Iowa during the summer between my 6th and 7thgrades in school. I established a pattern of reading the Bible to the best of my ability and tried to live for God. Most of my brothers and sisters were Christians, and I received encouragement from them.
After high school graduation I became discouraged and walked away from following the Lord. A brother of mine encouraged my parents to allow me to go to college (Wheaton). I then got back to my relationship with the Lord. My years at Wheaton were wonderful; I especially enjoyed the great chapel speakers I heard on a daily basis.
After Wheaton I began teaching mathematics at East Aurora High School. Then I went to Jacksonville, Florida to teach in a Christian school which I heard about from my sister.
I met my wife Jan at the school. We were married later that school year. Jan was a social studies teacher, and we taught together in Christian schools until 1977. We moved back to Illinois in 1977 and found Village Bible Church. The friendliness of the people and the expository teaching of Pastor Dick Martin led us to joining Village, and we have been here ever since.
I have been teaching mathematics at Yorkville High School since 1977. Our daughter Julie was born in 1979. Jan and I have served in various positions at Village since then. I have been Sunday School superintendent, a deacon, and finally an elder (since approximately 2003). I love serving with the other elders as they are a wonderful group of godly men.
My Hope for Village
My hope for Village is that we will continue to faithfully teach God’s word at all levels.
I want to see more people mature in their faith and lead others to Jesus also. This church has been a light in this community, and I pray that we will continue to stand on the truths of Scripture.
