Meet Pastor Bob Allen

We are thrilled to introduce you to our esteemed interim pastor, Bob Allen, who leads our congregation with grace, wisdom, and a heart full of compassion. Pastor Bob’s journey to ministry has been marked by a deep sense of calling and a commitment to serving God and His people.

Q: What do you prefer to be called?

A: For a formal introduction, Reverend Robert Allen, informally most people just call me Pastor Bob. Whatever they are comfortable with. Outside of church, I prefer to less formal, just call me Bob.

Q: What inspired you to become a pastor?

A: The deck was stacked against me. My grandmothers both prayed that I would be a minister.

My parents took me to an event about five missionaries who went to Ecuador back in the 1950’s to the Waodani tribe (known to most as the Aucas), a fierce homicidal “Stone Age” tribe.   The missionaries reached out to the tribe but all five men were speared to death. Later on some of their wives and a sister went back and lived with the tribe, teaching them about Christ, and many were converted, giving up their violent ways.

At the end of the presentation they asked “Does anyone in the audience feel called to full-time mission service?” I was 12 years old at the time. That was the first public announcement. I couldn’t stay sitting… just popped right up. It wasn’t a choice. It was a lifelong goal.

Q: What’s your favorite Bible verse and why?

A: 2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. I came across it one time while I was in college. I always struggled in school. I had to struggle as hard to get a C as others did to get an A.

Q: Do you have any hobbies outside of church work?

A: I enjoy hunting, fishing, and kayaking in lakes and on the James.

Q: What’s the most challenging aspect of being a pastor?

A: The itinerancy within Methodism is a challenge. Especially when you have a spouse with a career and moving children around as well. I am an adventurer at heart in most circumstances. I enjoyed the moves, meeting new people, and experiences, but it is challenging for the family.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of being a pastor?

A: Feeling like I’m doing a good job, sharing a sermon that resonates with the congregation. The opportunity to help others through a difficult time.

Q: How do you stay motivated during challenging times?

A: I try to make something good happen. It does back to having a positive attitude and looking at the opportunities. Take a step back. Rest. Renewal. And then Reflecting in order to then take on the challenge.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you would give to someone struggling with their faith?

A: First, I would affirm them of where they are. It’s real. It’s honest. It shows that they are looking for a solution and solutions are often a process. Acknowledge the grief the struggle and being open to possibilities. Reading, talking to someone that can hold confidences. Use all of your resources. Prayer, worship, professional counselor, friend pastor, community.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about being a pastor?

A: It has given me a lot of freedom within the parameters of the role. There is autonomy within my daily life. Whether focusing on a day of sermon writing, or time making visits with those that need it. I like the flexibility. I didn’t have to stay at a machine all day. I can break it up. Study in the morning, meetings in the evening. I like the variety of it.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?

A: There is a lot that goes into being a pastor. It’s more than an engaging sermon. It’s about relationships with people. Connecting with people. Administrative skills and a whole host of strengths of gifts, graces, and weaknesses to match with the churches and the community needs.

We are truly blessed to have Pastor Bob Allen leading us with his wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith. His dedication to serving God and His people is an inspiration to us all, and we are grateful for his leadership and guidance. If you haven’t had the opportunity to meet Pastor Bob yet, we invite you to join us for worship and experience firsthand the warmth and grace that he brings to our community.