Rev. David Smook

About David:

Interim pastor at Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Schererville.

Bachelor's degree in sociology from Maryville College.

Doctor of Ministry degree from Drew University in New Jersey.

Ordained in 1973.

Serves as a pastor to pastors for Wabash Valley Presbytery.

He and his wife, Dot, live in Rochester and have four children and one grandchild.

Accomplishments: The Rev. David Smook is interim pastor at Immanuel Presbyterian Church. He serves the congregation on a part time basis responsible for preaching, leading worship, teaching, visitation and working with committees, while preparing them for what God will bring them next, the incoming pastor. Smook joined the assembly in December and has a contract for eight months, it might run longer. He is helping the congregation evaluate their ministry, to determine their strengths and what work is being done in the community. "They're excited about making something new here," he said. Smook carries a backpack to remind the congregation he's temporary and that something better is yet to come. Inside the backpack, he carries animal puppets he uses during the worship service to help relay the sermon to children. Smook is having a very positive experience at Immanuel. "The congregation is a friendly, warm, wonderful bunch of people looking forward to what God is going to be doing in

their lives," he said. At the presbytery, Smook serves as a confidant to about 150 pastors in the area and helps them to continue to grow in their spiritual lives.

Why I minister to others: "It's definitely a calling by God on my life. God has called me to minister to people in this way. All of us are called to do what God wants us to do and we get a passion for what God wants us to do."

What I read: "I like to read the Bible, theological and church books. For relaxation, I read fantasy, science fiction and history."

Advice: Smook quoted scripture: "Go there for and make disciples of all people teaching them all that I have commended you and remember I am with you always."

What inspires me: "People who have done a lot with their lives and use who they have become to make other people better."

People might be surprised to know: "I was born in South Africa." -SUE BERO, Times Correspondent

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