At 61 years old, I have been blessed to be in the ministry for 30 years, 12 years as a licensed reverend. My walk with the Lord Jesus started at 29 years old. As a boy, after my family moved to Catlin from Horseheads in 1962, I had always attended church at the Full Gospel Church in Catlin.

Of nine children, I was the middle boy. Two weeks after graduating from Corning East High in 1978, I was enlisted in the Army as a Lance Missile crewman. After coming home, my many jobs varied from farming to welding, but always enjoyed restoration work. Currently, I own a remodeling and basement business and volunteer as the Tompkins Corners Country Church pastor.

To become a licensed reverend at the Assembly of God’s adult education, I would work during the week and go to Batavia on weekends for the bible courses needed.  After learning I had completed all the education requirements and pulpit experience necessary for the Kingsway Fellowship, I became an International Licensed Minister, still holding my credentials today. My love of farming and family continues. Marriage to my beautiful wife, Barb, for 37 years with three daughters Vicky, Heather, and Katie is a true blessing. 

For over 61 years I have learned to depend on the Lord for all I have and all that I am. Serving the Lord has been the best decision I have ever made and because of that love, my desire is to preach that good news to all who will listen. My passion was to be an evangelist, never thinking I would be called to be a minister. Until one day I drove past the Catlin Methodist Church  @ Tompkins Corners when God spoke to my heart to become the next pastor there. Once that was confirmed by the board, God told me to restore the church and building. Since that day by the grace of God and the folks at the church, especially the board, we are absolutely in the will of God. It is also confirmed when I see the progress the Lord has given this church with growth and blessings. 

We, at the church, have seen the Grace of God in action. No other time in my life have I seen God move in a community like Catlin. We hear of God’s mercy and miracles, but here at TCCC we are witnessing His blessings every day. I cannot wait to see what God will do next at TCCC. However, one thing is certain, God has just started a wonderful work in this church and I am blessed to be a small part of such love. 

Pastor Jim