First Interviewee and 'head-of-class' : Tom Rees

As we sat down for class, and found out that we would be questioning and hearing from Tom Rees on the evening of the 31st, I was much intrigued for I have heard a lot of positive feedback about Tom and looked forward to getting to know the 'real' Tom Reese. Questions were answered and conversations had, and in hindsight I am very thankful for that night, for I feel we were able to peer into the heart of a very true fellow brother-in-Christ.

As one's testimony usually goes, we started from the beginning. And like all, Tom has quite the testimony. Growing up in Philly and from the beginning of a young age, Tom faced much adversity through the loss of his father (though they would meet up later on in life) and the eventual loss of his step-father in the Vietnam War. Struggles didn't seem to stop as Tom and especially his beloved mother were deeply hurt by their third step-father and husband. It was around this dark time that Tom's mother found the will and strength to call out to God. This moment would change her life, and lead herself and Tom down the narrow  path of Christ.

Tom gave his life to the Lord around the age of 17 and at a camp ministry meeting was baptized in the Holy Spirit and called into the ministry. Tom was also helping out as a youth leader at a church a year after he came to Christ. Tom continued his faith and following through to college, attending VFCC in 1980 and eventually attending Temple University, receiving his Masters. Tom, just out of school, worked with Glad Tidings in Reading, PA where he worked in many different areas of ministry. Eventually, Tom worked amongst the head of the Penn-Dell district of the AG and also taught at VFCC.

After hearing a bit of Tom's life, I am very thankful for have a very 'imperfect' and very real brother-in-Christ and teacher. It is through the challenges in life that Tom has overcome through Christ, Jesus, and continues to battle that make him the true and honest man that he is. It is these qualities that one can see why Tom was placed into leadership. I am thankful for such interview, and look forward to having future classes with Tom Rees.