Barry Howard is pastor at the Wieuca Road Baptist Church in Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist for the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, live in Brookhaven, Georgia.
1. What story, verse or passage from your faith tradition’s sacred texts has significantly influenced / shaped your life?
Romans 12:1-2 is one of the key passages that continues shaping my life. For me, conversion and discipleship both depend on the transforming of the mind which leads to the enriching of one’s life.
2. Who are three people (other than your family) who have shaped your life and worldview? And why?
Tommy Reaves, my pastor from high school days, continues to help me to understand and live into my calling.
Walter Brueggemann, my Old Testament professor and friend, challenged me to think about faith in ways outside my tradition or my comfort zone.
Dean Norton, an English professor from Jacksonville State University, encouraged me in many ways, but she especially challenged me to enhance my reading discipline and to sharpen my writing skills.
3. List three of your “desert island” books, movies or TV shows.
NCIS (TV show), The Covenant or any other book by James Michener, and “The Shawshank Redemption” (movie).
4. What is one of the most critical issues people are facing today?
The challenge to do non-partisan critical thinking.
5. What are a few of your hobbies?
Reading, writing and golf.
6. If you could freeze your life into an already-lived 10 seconds, what would they be?
Wow! That’s a hard one.
When I led a revival at Maranatha Baptist in Plains, Georgia, a few years ago, Amanda and I had lunch with President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalyn, then visited in their home after lunch. It was an awe-inspiring experience to listen to their heart for proactively addressing poverty and healthcare around the world. I would probably freeze 10 seconds of that visit.
7. Our tagline at Good Faith Media is, “There’s more to tell.” What’s your “more to tell”?
Most people have known me as a minister or pastor. However, I love to travel, hike, play cards, read novels and visit a variety of golf courses.
Reflection and resources at the intersection of faith and culture through an inclusive Christian lens.
