Tim Collins

As I look back and think through my journey with Christ, it all began when I was four.  I had the privilege of growing up in a strong Christian family where I was child number four out of six kids.  One afternoon, I was talking with one of my older brothers in our basement and he asked me if I wanted to follow Jesus.  I said “Yes” and thus started the journey that has led me to where I am today.

While growing up, I attended Portland Christian from K – 8 and then transferred to David Douglas High School for my high school education.  It was in the high school youth group at Central Bible Church that I met Tia.  We attended the University of Oregon together and dated on and off for about six years until I finally got my act together and asked Tia to marry me.  In Eugene, we both served in the college group at First Baptist Church where I also served on paid staff for two years.  We are going on ten years of marriage and have been blessed with two beautiful daughters, Madison (born in 2002) and Allie (born in 2005).

While in high school, I began to realize a number of passions that continue to direct my life.  One of those is a passion for the lost here in the US.  In high school, I had the privilege of starting a weekly Bible study on the DDHS campus that still meets weekly during lunch.  I also began to volunteer my summers at Christian camps around the northwest.  From 1989 through 1999, I spent every summer except one volunteering my time doing everything from cleaning toilets to leadership training and development.  Even today, I serve on the Trout Creek Bible Camp Board of Directors and have been since 2000.

Another passion is that of worship through music.  God began opening doors for leading worship when I was 15.  In every subsequent ministry experience, leading worship has played a significant role.  Our decision to begin attending Grace back in 1999 was a result of Larry Gadbaugh’s invitation to come and assist in leading worship.  In addition to music ministry, my wife and I co-lead a grace group.

Currently my wife and I teach in the Gresham Barlow School district.  We were both hired back in 1998.  Tia teaches at the elementary level and I teach high school chemistry and an introduction to philosophy called Theory of Knowledge.  I am also in the process of completing work towards a PhD in Science Education through Oregon State University.  We count it a privilege to live, work, and serve in the same community and are excited to continue to serve as God provides opportunity.

By His Grace and for His Glory,

Tim Collins