I noted recently with sadness the passing of Rev. Pat Perry. To many, Pat was a very effective vocational evangelist who traveled across our state for nearly 20 years, winning many to Christ. To me, however, Pat was a pastor and friend who ordained me to the Gospel ministry at Lee Road Baptist Church in Taylors on Dec. 30, 1979.

I never shall forget his admonition to me that evening as he said, “Preach the Word and love the people.” I have tried to make that the hallmark of my ministry for 36 years now. In this day and time when there’s been so much discussion about models and paradigms for pastoral ministry, I still think you can’t improve upon Pat’s wise and simple words to me on that night so many years ago. Thanks, Pastor Pat!

Drew Hines
Washington Baptist Church, Greer