Lead Pastor
- Born and raised in New Castle, IN
- Married to Susan
- Has 3 adult children and 4 grandchildren
- Received a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree from Bob Jones University
- Moved to Knoxville in 1986
Current Ministry
Pastor Sam in his role as Lead Pastor of the church. serves as advisor to the pastoral team and staff, teaches in most of the services held in the auditorium, and represents West Park in the greater community. He also currently serves as chairman of the board of ABWE, a global mission agency with over 1200 missionaries. Pastor Sam is also the founder and chairman of CedarBrook Outreach, a ministry to at-risk children and their families in west Knoxville. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he enjoys spending time with his family, and especially traveling and exploring new places together with his wife, Susan.
Pastor Sam’s greatest passion in ministry is teaching and preaching God’s Word. “I just love to teach God’s Word,” he often shares. “Whether in large settings, small groups, or personal conversations, I am energized by seeing people come alive to the reality and glory of Christ.”
Favorite Bible Verse
For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 2 Corinthians 4:5