PHIL SPARLING

EDUCATION

B.A. in Bible from San Diego Christian College; M.A. from Western Seminary. Working toward Doctorate degree at Grace Seminary.

EXPERIENCE

This church was launched by three families, one of which was my parents. This is the only church, other than my internship, where I have worked and pastored.

FAMILY

Beautiful wife, Ruth, married in 1984. Four great kids: Philip, Ben, Amanda and Michael are young adults.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?

Athletic events, hiking, softball, movies, traveling to new places, relaxing.

FAVORITE HOME-COOKED MEAL

I’m a meat and potatoes kind of guy.

FAVORITE DESSERT

Chocolate Cream Pie.

FAVORITE CAFFINATED BEVERAGE

Tall extra hot two pump mocha.

FAVORITE MOVIES

I like epics—It’s a Wonderful Life, Early Star Wars, Gladiator, Band of Brothers, True Grit.

FAVORITE CHRISTIAN BOOKS OR AUTHORS

I must confess that I am not an avid reader. I recently enjoyed Moral Choices by Scott Rae and Leadership Shift by Don Cousins.

FAVORITE OR LIFE VERSE

2 Chronicles 16:9 – “For the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His. You have acted foolishly in this. Indeed, from now on you will surely have wars.”

WHAT GETS YOU EXCITED ABOUT MINISTRY OR WHAT IS YOUR PASSION IN MINISTRY?

I love teaching God’s Word. It is so interesting and transformational. I love leading teams of people who want to accomplish great things for God.