Date started at Mountain Gap: May 2013

Birth place: Rockledge, FL

What I do: Husband to Patrice; dad to Josh & Alyssa; Lead Pastor at Mountain Gap Church.

Family: Patrice and I met at Emmanuel College on her first day as a freshman, I was a sophomore. We immediately became really great friends which evolved into a relationship, then an even greater marriage. Patrice is my best friend and most steady source of encouragement. We love to laugh together, and enjoy regular “date nights” – these have kept our marriage strong, healthy and “real.” We have two remarkable children who both love God and one another – a fact we’re really thankful for!. Josh is the oldest and, like his mom, has never met a stranger – he loves a crowd and has a heart that’s filled with compassion for people. Alyssa is our youngest and shares a lot in common with her dad – music of all types (well, mostly), reading, and learning. Alyssa has a heart for God that’s obvious by her devotion Finally, their dog, Belle, is a rescue, Boxer-mix – she’s the sneaky one of the family.

Favorite Sports Team: Georgia Bulldogs, Atlanta Braves & Atlanta Falcons are the teams I love to watch & attend games.

Past Times: music of all sorts – one moment I’m listening to jazz or Baroque, next moment I’m listening to Motown – please don’t judge. I also listen to a lot of praise music – black gospel to piano hymns – love it all (well, mostly). I love to play guitar & before I came to Christ, thought I was going to be a rock star – but so did every other kid! I’m also an early adopter with regard to technology in my thinking, but a late adopter in technology with regard to my wallet.

Favorite Verse: Matthew 6:33 “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”

My relationship with Christ: My relationship with Christ is dynamic – sounds impressive but what that really means is that it’s characterized by progress and change – in other words, growth. Basically, my relationship with Christ – much like my relationship with my wife and kids – is constantly growing, taking shape, and deepening. I searched for a long time as a child & teenager for the hope, meaning and purpose of life in many places – I found all of those when the decision to follow Christ was made available to me. I’d love to sit down and tell you more about my story, and hear more about yours…

Date started at Mountain Gap: February 2002

Birth place: Macon, Georgia

What I do: I am the “go-to” person for a lot of the church’s event planning and I am the voice on the other end of the phone when people call the church office. I maintain church records and in general, try to relieve as much of the business side of the ministry as I can by assisting the pastor and board members. I am very blessed to serve the Lord and the MGC in my job.

Family: I have been married to Robbie Garner for 22 years and I am very blessed to have such a hard working level headed man to share this life with. He helps balance me when I need it. Robbie and I have been blessed with two beautiful children; Chelsea who is 15 and Connor who is 2. I see the hand of God on my children every day protecting them and teaching them His ways. Chelsea is experiencing life as she grows and I am amazed at the depth of her perception of the things of the Lord. Connor is …well he is like any soon to be three year old. He keeps me on my toes, literally, if he is not asleep…he is moving! In September of 1999 I lost my dad to cancer….that was a very grieving experience for me, but it was also a time that the Lord poured so much of His peace out on me that it was just like the scripture says “peace that passes all understanding.” I have a wonderful faith filled mother, who has lifted me up on more than one occasion with her love and devotion to her call as mother. I have a younger sister, Tina Schmitt who I love dearly and have been blessed with her in my life. Last, but certainly not least…. I am blessed with many friends that hold special places in my heart that would not be any more special if we had been born into the same family.

Favorite Sports Team and Past Times: I’m not really a sports fan yet…maybe when Connor is old enough to sign-up for t-ball or something. I love doing anything that involves being with my family.

Favorite Verse: John 14:27….it is comforting to know that we have this scripture’s promise in today’s world.

My relationship with Christ: I have always believed in God and His Son Jesus. I just didn’t fully serve Him until I was in my mid twenties. I can truthfully say, that my life is so much better since I took myself out of the “number one” spot and asked Jesus to take it. I love the Lord with all my heart, soul and mind. He is my strength, peace and hope! He continues to amaze me daily as He reveals more and more mercy and grace to me. He is so much more than I could ever hope for. I am very thankful that He chose me and I hope my relationship with Him grows deeper and stronger throughout the rest of my life.