About the Author



My given name is James Thomas Dunkerton, but I use my middle name, "Tom". I was born in Nairobi, Kenya as the son of missionaries. In 1974, I graduated from Rift Valley Academy in Kenya and moved to the United States for college. I went to Geneva College in Beaver Falls, PA where I got a BS in Physics and Computer Science. I graduated in 1978 right in the middle of the “Carter Recession”. Many of my classmates were having trouble finding jobs, but I was very fortunate to be hired by IBM in Endicott, NY.

I worked at IBM until 1986 when I first felt the call to go into the ministry. I then left IBM and went to Grand Rapids Baptist Seminary where I got my Masters in Theology. I served as a pastor in two rural churches for almost twenty years, while working part-time as a computer programmer, a substitute teacher, and in the mental health field. I am currently semi-retired and working part-time as a substitute teacher in Erie, PA.

I met my life long soul mate, Ann Kolterman, at Geneva College, and we were married on May 27, 1978. We have traveled a winding and sometimes rocky path together full of joy and sorrow, but mostly joy. Ann has raised our children and taught them at home. She has also taught in a Christian school and still is a Home School evaluator. She has been the 4-H agent for McKean County, PA, and now substitute teaches in a Catholic School and is a writer. Ann and I have five amazing children married to equally amazing spouses. Between them, they have given us nine wonderful grandchildren.

The apostle Paul wrote, "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31) I have tried to live by that principle all my life with varying degrees of success. I am hoping that this blog will live up to that lofty goal. I invite all who join this community to make it their goal as well.

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