Getting To Know Our Convention Ministry Leaders & Staff: Gary Lee

What inspired you to join or lead this ministry, and how has your journey in faith shaped your leadership?

Join: Not sure I ever felt inspired or led, at least not in the beginning. I was 23 years old when I began my career at Children’s Home. In fact, I initially declined the opportunity for an interview because I wasn’t really seeking a “ministry” opportunity. I never felt qualified or had the confidence to be good enough.

Lead: In 2008 after working at the Children’s Home for 14 years, with 11 of them as the vice president, the CEO retired, and I was encouraged by Board Chair James Cahoon to apply for the position. I again resisted initially and prayed someone else could be found. I remember spending a day kayaking alone praying, searching my heart, and asking the Lord to lead me. I feel called to serve Christ in every circumstance. The scriptures remind me that I am supposed to help those in need and speak out on behalf of the voiceless, and for the rights of all who are vulnerable. I was inspired by the children and young people we serve as I considered the circumstances of their lives and the tragedies that seemed so unfair. My personal faith grew as my career at the Home did. Great people in the OFWB denomination have guided me, supported me, and encouraged me in every way. I believe success in ministry is not within ourselves but through the journey of circumstances, our experiences, and how we see Christ in everything we do.  

I was always encouraged and supported, especially by former President Bobby Taylor, during my career. He saw potential in me and gave me opportunities and challenges to strengthen my skills and increase my confidence.

I also was inspired by a denomination that taught me kindness, respect, and love. The Woman’s Auxiliary particularly showered the Children’s Home with so many acts of kindness, and their generosity continues today.

Many things contributed to what eventually (many years later) led me to understand that my “calling” was to serve the Children’s Home ministry.

What’s one scripture that has been a guiding principle for you in your ministry work? Why is it so significant to you?

Romans 8:28 – I memorized this verse many years ago. Whenever I’m faced with challenges, this is the first verse I remember. Christians can trust that God is in control and working for us even when we can’t understand or see the results. It’s the core of my faith in Jesus, my Savior.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your ministry, and what keeps you motivated on difficult days?

I get motivated by giving donors the opportunity to share in the work/ministry of the CH by supporting the things our youth need. I also find joy when a young person accepts Jesus as their Savior. This is what matters to me. It's hard work, difficult days come often. In the desire to help others, we must remain strong and lead by example offering hope.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your ministry today, and how are you addressing it?

People resource. We have many opportunities to help youth but are limited by people willing to join our ministry to accomplish our mission and goals. Stronger recruitment and retention efforts are being addressed.

Declining denomination. With a declining denomination, our future and dependence on OFWB could decline for future generations. I am praying for our future.

How does your organization uniquely live out the mission and values of the Original Free Will Baptist Denomination?

The vision to have an orphanage in 1916 was because our people cared about children, particularly children who had lost one or both parents. Our mission remains the same, and the OFWB people still care about children. They have continued to fight alongside us in difficult times.

If you could spend one hour with any biblical figure (other than Jesus), who would it be and why?

Daniel – I admire Daniel because he loved God and was always committed to giving his best, trusting God in all circumstances. I want the kind of faith Daniel lived, and I believe his testimony is one of the greatest examples of Christian devotion. It would be an honor to meet him.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone feeling called to ministry?

Trust the Lord and seek HIS guidance. Be willing to take risks.

Can you share a story about someone whose life has been transformed through your ministry’s work?

It’s always encouraging to hear from our youth when they grow up and become adults;  they will visit and call when they reach milestones in their life—completing their education, job promotion, marriages, becoming parents—and they always share how the CH influenced something in their life or the person who made a difference.

If you could dream big, what’s your vision for the future of your ministry in the next 5–10 years?

I have a big dream list:

I want to have resources to give young people first-time experiences.

Facilities improved.

Sustainable income.

Become the best we can be.

If you had a theme song for your life (or ministry), what would it be, and why?

Honestly, I don’t really think this deep. But I try to take “One day at a time.”

If you could only eat one church potluck dish for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Chicken Pastry

How can people reach out to you regarding the ministry you represent? How can they find out more about what you offer?

Website, Social Media, visit, or make direct contact with me.