OUR LEADERSHIP

John was born and raised a Presbyterian in Erie, Pa., and when he was 18 years old, he became a Christian. In 1971, while at a Leighton Ford Crusade, John was confronted with the reality that, though outwardly moral, and a faithful Presbyterian, he was a sinner, and as such, was under the wrath of Almighty God. That night, God was pleased to save him.

Within a year of his conversion, John began attending Mercyhurst College, graduating in 1976 with a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel/Restaurant Management. Between his Junior and Senior year, John married his lifelong neighbor and high school sweetheart -- Debbie. After college, John became the founding manager of Delhurst Country Inn, in North East, Pa, where he remained for two years.

During that time, he became aware of Jerry Falwell and the Old Time Gospel Hour. The weekly broadcasts, which made passionate appeals to lost sinners, had a powerful impact on his life. His interest in the food business began to wane, and his desire to feed people's souls became more pressing. In 1978, John was accepted at Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary in Lynchburg, Va., where he received a Master's Degree in Biblical Counseling, graduating in 1983.



He spent the next three-plus years as Pastor of Family Ministries at Atlantic Shores Baptist Church in Va Beach, Va., where he was the Director of Counseling and of the Little Life Crisis Pregnancy Ministry. In 1987, John and his family returned to Erie, where he assumed the pastorate of Bible Baptist Church. Over the next 8 years, the church embarked on a study of the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith, whereby God began to change John's theology, as well as the theology of the church, concerning their understanding of the Sovereignty of God. As a result, widespread change occurred--a change of beliefs--a change of church constitution--and a change of name. On June 25, 1995, the church was reconstituted as Providence Reformed Baptist Church. 

John and Debbie have been married since 1975, and have been blessed with 10 children and ten grandchildren. Their desire continues to be, to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.