Burton Gates
Age: 37Hometown: El Dorado, AR
Classification: 2008 Graduate
Major: Pastoral Theology
Ministry Involvement: Pastor – Liberty Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, AR
Random Fact: I love Philly cheese -steak!
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How did you come to know Jesus as your Saviour? Jake Weido knocked on my door and invited me to church. Four weeks later, I asked the Lord Jesus Christ to be my personal Saviour.
How did you end up at Champion? I had surrendered to preach. My pastor, Brother Weido, advised me to consider Champion for my training. I visited the campus, met with Dr. Capaci and Dr. Mitchell, and knew that this was where the Lord was leading me.
What is the best thing about Champion?
The best thing about Champion is the staff; I believe they are all in tune with God's will for their lives. Under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, they have been brought together from many different places in the United States. They each help us to attain what God has for our lives.
Have you made some good friends here on-campus? Because I was only saved for about a year and a half before coming to Champion, I have made all my friends here. They are lifelong friends, people I will be in touch with for the rest of my life as we encourage and help one another in the ministry.
Did you have a favorite class? My favorite class was Eschatology (the study of last things) with Brother Tony Smith. It was evident as Brother Tony taught that he was in tune with what the Bible says. He was able to help us with almost every question we had about the end times.
What would you suggest to someone considering Champion? Speak with your pastor and other Godly authorities the Lord has placed in your life. Pray and ask God to direct you to where you should go.
What is your favorite memory from Champion? My favorite memory would definitely have to be meeting my wife on my second day here and beginning our courtship process. After much prayer and counseling with our pastors, Dr. Eric Capaci, Dr. Mitchell, Charlie Clark, J.D. Weido, and Cara's dad, we knew that it was God's will that we be married in May of 2005. Our son, Dale, was born in March of 2007.
What are your future plans? For the next six to eight months, I will be seeking support from local churches so that we are able to start the Liberty Baptist Church in the inner city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in March of 2009.