Force of Life and Love

A minister's spiritual and theological journey spanning his entire life up to this point, 68 years, including 41 years of active ministry. Included are anecdotes from childhood, dealing with visual challenges, education through books on tape, eventually earning a doctorate with help from his "readers" of various faith backgrounds. He reflects on his successful leadership in large churches and the evolution of his faith journey.

A minister's spiritual and theological journey spanning his entire life up to this point, 68 years, including 41 years of active ministry. Included are anecdotes from childhood, dealing with visual challenges, education through books on tape, eventually earning a doctorate with help from his "readers" of various faith backgrounds and post-graduate work at the University of Edinburgh. He reflects on his successful leadership and ministry in three large churches and in creating caring communities. His upbringing, family, and church life all influenced his spirituality and theology; life learnings that he hopes to pass on to family and others reading this book.

Jim Decker-Mahin received his B.A. in Psychology from U.C.L.A. and a Doctorate in the Ministry from Claremont School of Theology. He served as Senior Minister at three large United Methodist Churches in southern California, retiring from Camarillo UMC in 2013. During his ministry, he received many awards for church growth and was loved and respected by all he served. In retirement, he has enjoyed traveling, adventuring with children and grandchildren (his Ohana) and being with Lynn, his wife.