Pastor: Calling was chosen for me

Pastor David McFadden.

First Baptist Church

What did you choose to be a pastor? It wasn’t so much something I chose. It was something that was chosen for me. During summer break while attending college, I was invited to a Bible study by a young lady. I went more for the lady than the Bible study! The Bible study group grew from just a few people to over 40 by the end of the summer. Soon after that Bible study, God gave me a purpose. I have just followed that purpose step by step ever since.

Where did you go to seminary? After graduating college at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, I attended the Baptist Theology Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas.

What’s the hardest lesson you have learned as a pastor? When to say no. When you have a calling from God, you are always ready to jump at any opportunities He gives you. You have to learn not to take on more than God wants you to take on.

What is your vision for the future of your church? I would want our church’s presence and ministries to make an impact on Portales.

If you could pick any skill to excel at, what would it be and why? People skills. God’s work is people work! I would want to learn how to relate to people better.

What’s your favorite sport to watch or participate in and why? I like to watch basketball. I used to participate. I’m too old now!

What do you do in your free time? What free time I have, my wife and I like to spend with our grandchildren. I also spend time in the yard doing yard work.

If you had three wishes, what would they be? I would want everyone to come to know Christ as their personal savior. I would want everyone to know that God loves them. I also would want everyone to love each other the way God wants them to.