I took a lot of slack from my Christian Bretheren over the fact that I studied Asian Martial Arts (I was advised that it was an Eastern Occultic Art) and I would drop out for long periods of time, only to find myself back in one dojo or another, and feeling somewhat guilty. I continued to study and
practice at home and spent all my extra money on martial art books and magazines. I heard of Karate for Christ and began to see the value of the martial arts as a tool for the Gospel.

I studied Hapkido from Master Kim in Tacoma, Wa. while stationed at Fort Lewis. I also studied Taekwondo from one of my Sgt.'s who was stationed in Korea for many years. I used the martial arts to attract kids to vacation bible school during Marine bootcamp where I taught classes, it resulted in many conversions. I have had the oppertunity to study under J. Pat Burleson while acting as an assistant instructor for his Y.E.S. Program (Youth Enrichment Studies) and have found that the martial arts are one of the oldest and best ways to instill discipline and self-esteem within an individual, military, or civilian. Armed with the Gift of the Gospel as well, and one may fear no evil!" 

I came to Christ while driving to and from work in 1995. I was listening to a radio preacher and had not realized the relevance that the Word of God had in my life. I realized that everything in the Bible was God breathed (2 Tim 3:16) and therefore inspired by God. I realized that I had to start learning more about God and His character. Since then I have become babtized and have surrendered my life to the ministry. I am seeking to attend seminary and eventually becaome a full time minister. God has led me to incorporate the teachings of Jesus into my personal martial arts style. Our style emphasizes concentration on spiritual self-defense (everlasting through Jesus), and less of an emphasis on our bodily selves. We could be killed every day in a variety of ways, whether in a street fight or in a car accident. But by God's grace we have the opportunity to celebrate the victory over that death through the ultimate Master, Jesus.

"Born and raised in the Lutheran church. About 2 years ago became friends with a rather famous Christian musical artist and started growing closer to the Lord at that time. About then is when I got the desire to start living for Christ and searching for ways to help people while demonstrating HIS love." 

Shortly thereafter, although I was pretty skeptical, I answered an altar call to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I remember praying there at the altar that if this was not of God, I did not want it. Once they prayed over me, the power of the Holy Spirit came over me and has completely taken over my life.

Currently I am in a mentoring type of program with my Pastor to go into the Street Evangelism ministry. My wife and I are youth worship leaders and Sunday School teachers for Jr Highschool students. I am also on the board of Deacons at our church which is Family Worship Center Assembly of God in Victoria, Texas, USA."

"I grew up in the church.  I took Christ as my Lord and Savior at the  age of 9.  I grew and I am growing in my understanding of the Lordship  of Jesus Christ.  I have been a Minister of Youth and a Pastor.  Now I  am a Registered Nurse working in ICU and a deacon in the church."