Ask Buck: Tell me about your spiritual formation.
My spiritual journey began in earnest at age 14 when I attended Willow Springs Baptist Temple in Kilgore, Texas. This was my first meaningful church experience, and it led to my conversion to Christianity – a pivotal moment that transformed my life. I felt my throat tighten and a hunger come over me to know Jesus, whom the pastor was preaching about. That day, I gave myself to Christ.
Following my conversion, I began reading the Bible, and continue to have a deep love and passion for God’s Word.
As a teen, I became deeply involved in church activities, developing a strong faith and passion for ministry. My newfound beliefs had a profound impact on my family, as my parents, brothers, and eventually my grandparents also accepted Christ. This family-wide transformation deepened my understanding of faith’s power to change lives.
During my college years, I pursued formal education in Christian studies, earning a Bachelor of Arts with a triple major in Communications, Bible, and Education, as well as a Graduate of Theology Certificate. This academic training strengthened my theological understanding and prepared me for future ministry roles.
Throughout my adult life, I served in various lay positions in churches. These experiences helped me develop leadership skills and a deeper understanding of church operations.
My faith has been repeatedly tested and ultimately strengthened through difficult personal challenges. These experiences have deepened my reliance on God and enhanced my ability to empathize with others facing similar struggles. After my divorce, I experienced a period of spiritual wrestling and renewal, where I rediscovered my ability to worship and serve God. I often incorporate these experiences into my teaching and discipleship approach, as they are the most practical examples of God’s redemptive power, which is imperative in helping others “connect or reconnect with Christ” and find hope in difficult circumstances.
My involvement in planting Hosea Church in Raleigh, NC, further developed my faith and understanding of ministry in a new context.
Throughout my journey, I’ve pursued additional training and certifications in areas like mental health coaching and pastoral care, demonstrating my commitment to ongoing spiritual and professional growth.
Most recently, with the loving support of my wife, my spiritual formation has led me to transition from my corporate career to ministry as a Ministry Apprentice at Belmont Church in Nashville. This step represents a significant milestone in my journey, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to serving God and His people.
Throughout this journey, my spiritual formation has been characterized by a deepening understanding of God’s Word, a growing passion for discipleship, and a commitment to living out my faith in practical ways. My experiences have shaped me into a leader focused on authentic discipleship and equipping others to grow in their faith.