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Name change improved church rolls

Photo from Derek Maul

Len Harper of South Brandon Baptist Church married the “love of his life,” Robin Steed in 1983. They have four children.

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By DEREK MAUL

Tribune correspondent

Published: November 25, 2009

When Len Harper moved to South Brandon Baptist Church, in 1997, the congregation was in decline. "The church had been here since 1988," he said, "but it didn't fit the community and never thrived."

A name change to "South Brandon Worship Center" kicked off a shift in church culture. "Today our motto is 'Encounter God's touch,'" Harper said. "God's reputation is established at this church."

How has the church changed?

We moved away from Baptist tradition. Our name makes church open to everyone. I wear a golf shirt, we have a contemporary band and our emphasis is worship. The name reflects who we are. When we got here my vision was to reach young couples with children and youth, so we took the church and put it in the community.

Does your church have a personality?

We're the family church. That's my heart: I'm a shepherd, a true pastor who shepherds people. It's an honor and God trusts us.

Where were you raised?

I grew up in College Park, Maryland. My father died when I was young, but when he was in the hospital he listened to a radio evangelist and prayed, "God, I want to live the life I have left for you." He attended church for about a year and took me with him - I was 6.

When did God become personal?

I didn't attend after my dad died but then I met Jesus in high school. I was drawn to the Christians; they had something. I did well in college and went to work at a bank; my passion was to be successful in business. I rose to the top quickly because God's favor was on me.

The bank administrators didn't understand why I threw it all away. But money won't last; changing lives is eternal.

Where were you educated?

I went to St. Mary's Honors College in St. Mary's City, Maryland. Then Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth for my master's in divinity and master's in education (1989).

Do you have a family?

I married Robin Steed in 1983. She's been the love of my life and she's the one who gave me the courage to quit banking and go to seminary. We have four boys: Luke (18), Matthew (17), Aaron (12)and Joshua (10).

Do you like Brandon?

It's an answer to a prayer. I see myself as a pastor to the city. I feel called to the city, not just this church. I pray over this city.

I own this city, spiritually. The congregation knows our church is a kingdom church.

Are you optimistic?

Jesus is on the throne and in control. He's setting things up. Wesley said the future is as bright as the promises of God. Being here has been awesome - I've loved it. God has used me to influence so many lives. I not only hope, but also look back and see what God has done.

Is there a Bible verse you'd like to share?

"I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes." Romans 1:16; it's my life verse.

For information about the church, 4929 Bell Shoals Road, call (813) 661-2273.

Derek Maul can be reached at derekmaul@gmail.com.

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