Pastor believes church helps God repair the world

Editor’s note: The following is one in a series in which we profile religious leaders in Roosevelt County.

Keith Wilks is in the beginning of his second year as pastor at First United Methodist Church in Portales. In his 27 years of pastoral ministry, Wilks has also pastored at Patterson Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Clovis and Thompson Chapel CME Church in Artesia. He also teaches for the religion department at Eastern New Mexico University.

What are some hobbies and activities you enjoy doing outside of work?

Writing. I have written an autobiographical book, and I’m currently working on another book in which I will expand on the “Triple R Process (Reflection, Revealing and Reframing).” I designed the process, which has helped many people unravel various emotional, psychological and spiritual struggles in their lives.

Outside of the church, where is your favorite place to go in Portales?

Visiting various members’ homes to enjoy playing dominoes, horseback riding and home cooked meals.

link Keith Wilks

If you could be any fictional character from a movie, show or novel, who would it be and why?

I cannot think of any fictional character I would want to be. I’m happy being me.

What do you think is a common misconception about Christianity?

That Christians should be perfect and no further work is needed to represent Christ.

What is a topic or issue in today’s culture that impacts or distresses you the most?

The need for the church to increase its impact on society as a whole is an important topic to me. I have a passion to provide impactful ministry to all people. I developed this passion after Christ redeemed me at a time when I felt my life and ministry would be over. It was through God’s help that I developed the process of reflection, revealing and reframing, which stimulated my transformation. The church has been instrumental in my development, and I believe the church can and should be an instrument in helping God repair the world.

— Compiled by Staff Writer Jackie Johnson