Gary Adams, an Atlantan native, grew up in a close and loving family but one that had no ties to church or religion. However, his younger brother Don answered God’s call, accepted Christ at the age of 14, and pursued a career in ministry.
Years later, a car hit and killed Don and his son near Don’s church. The tragedy had a profound effect on Gary, and he experienced a conversion.
“I made my decision, I gave myself to the Lord at the funeral home,” Gary said, “But, I was still suffering. It was a year until we found a church to help us.”
Gary and his wife Debbie wanted a church where they could grow their faith and raise a family. On a neighbor’s suggestion, they visited Shallowford with their young daughter and son. Gary connected with Shallowford men who served as the role models and mentors he needed.
“We joined and the whole family jumped in ‘neck deep’ and never looked back,” said Gary.
He attended the men’s prayer breakfast and volunteered with the Building and Grounds Committee. Debbie enjoyed her women’s circle and helped with the Food Pantry. Active in Shallowford Youth, the kids sang in the Chapel Choir and went on choir tour each summer.
“We soon learned that you get out what you put in!” continued Gary. “We discovered a community that has provided meaningful relationships for us and our kids for 30 years. Our family members all made life-long friends.”
