Striving for God’s heavenly goal
Name: Ollie Gardner Sr. Church: St. Matthew M.B. Church, 1295 Craft Road in Olive Branch Title: Pastor Age: 72 Hometown: DeSoto County
What church did you grow up in: Shiloh Baptist Church
When did you decide to go into the ministry: May 1970, at the age of 30
What was your first job in a church: I was a minister at Shiloh and later became pastor at New Bethany Baptist Church in 1971.
When did you start at this church: The first Sunday of June 1978.
What makes Sundays special: Sundays are set aside for worship, praise and fellowship.
What has been your most defining moment in the ministry: When I became pastor, the church was having service two Sundays out of the month. God gave me a vision of a new church in a different location. Under my lead- ership and teaching, I was able to grow the membership and increase their faith.
Most memorable mission trips: I am very committed to mission work. I believe that you have to go beyond the walls of the church spreading the word. We have regular visits to the prisons, nursing homes, hospitals, homeless shelters and sometimes a street ministry.
Hobbies: Fishing, reading and cooking
Favorite Bible verse: Psalm 23
Favorite hymn: “I Love the Lord (He Heard My Cry)”
Favorite movies: I enjoy a good western.
Favorite book: “Rediscovering the Kingdom” by Myles Munroe.
Favorite TV show: I enjoy various religious shows, but occasionally I like to watch “King of the Hill.”