Mentor

Mentors I have so many special individuals that have shaped my philosophy of life and my faith.

My years at York College were some of the greatest moments in my life. It was a time where, as I look back, some of the greatest thinkers in the Churches of Christ of today were actually just starting their teaching careers and I benefited greatly hearing these individuals on a daily basis. Men like Tim Woodruff (Minister at the Otter Creek Church in Nashville), Mike Westerfield (President of Rochester College), Dennis Lynn (Past President of Cascade College), and James Hinkle (Minister and Counselor in Dickson, TN) just to name a few.

James Hinkle was my Bible professor at York College. James was a great teacher. He was full of energy and excitement. He wrote his own textbooks for his Bible courses. He made God's Word so easy to understand, but so exciting that you never wanted to miss a class. We always sang the same song to start out his class "Come we that love the Lord" and then we prayed. James was always interested in his students. He always took time to listen to concerns and build relationships.

When I returned to York to teach in 1995, I really began to get to know James and his family. James and I always had hit it off because he loved basketball. When I was playing for York he was always one of my biggest supporters. When I returned to York he helped me in many ways as I coached the girl’s programs. He was always there helping in any way possible.

But the most enjoyable time we spent together was what was called "Noon League". This was where the teachers and staff played basketball at lunchtime every weekday. I loved that time of the day. You really get to know people when you’re throwing elbows at former teachers and are also on the receiving end. Sometimes it got so heated (playing with these Bible Profs) we would have to stop and pray and ask God to give us patience and not retaliate against each other. James loved to play. He always played at 100%. He was a good player who was fast and you hated playing against him when he guarded you. He had ways to keep you from getting the ball and you always ended up with scratches and blood pouring from some body part. I liked his aggressive style.

Today, James is a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor at the Walnut Street Church of Christ in Dickson, Tennessee.

James, thank you for making such an impact on my life. You and your family were so kind to Debbie and I just starting out in our married life. Thank you for your Godly teaching, preaching and example that you have been to so many people. You were one of my early mentors that shared a message about Christ that has changed my life. May God continue to bless you and your family in your important ministry.