Gary Evans, pastor of the Republic and Grand Coulee churches, was ordained to the gospel ministry on June 11, 2005, in Republic, Wash. Early in life he was introduced to ministry by his father, who served as an Adventist pastor in the Northwest. Though initially drawn to this type of work, he later strayed from both God and the church.
Years later, Evans and his wife, Ilene, joined a Seventh-day Adventist Church in Oregon, and in time Evans felt called to follow in his father’s footsteps. Though he had worked as a respiratory therapist for more than 20 years, he stepped out in faith and began serving as a lay pastor in western Oregon. In 2001, Gary started full-time ministry in the Upper Columbia Conference at his present location.
Describing his ministry focus, Evans points to three areas of special interest. He wants to help people deepen their relationship with God and help his churches become healthier congregations with a passion for the unchurched. He also believes that it is important for Adventists to interact frequently and in a variety of ways with the community in an attempt to uplift Jesus.
The ordination service was well attended by family, church members and conference leaders. During the service, Evans pointed to the power of God to take a prodigal son and make him a shepherd of the flock.
Gary and Ilene Evans stand with Max Torkelsen II, Upper Columbia Conference president, after Gary's ordination service in Republic.
