Comments on: Autobiography (part 4): The Dark, Scarlet Letter Years

By: Frank Gantz

Frank Gantz — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 23:24:00 +0000

Glenn, I am so sorry about the tough road you have traveled. I understand losing everything, but to my own fault. I certainly understand the pastor friend thing, although I had some that stood by me. At times I considered taking the path of Job as you have.

Thank you for your wishes. I hope that the day will come and soon that you will experience the fresh presence of God. Perhaps Calvinists would say that Jesus did die for you and that he will draw you back to himself. I hope so.

I would love to hear from you in the future.

By: Glenn

Glenn — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 21:45:21 +0000

I have traveled a similar road, but I ended up at different places than you. I was once an overeducated SBC pastor who had done all the right things, and was part of all the right networks. Then my wife divorced me, my church fired me, my pastor friends turned their back on me, and I lost everything. Literally. Everything.

Through six months of hell, I kept believing that god was with me, that he would see me through, that he loved me, yada, yada, yada. Then one day I decided, ‘fuck him and the virgin that bore him.’ Unlike Job, I cursed god, and waited to die. But I didn’t die. Sometime later, I simply stopped believing in god. The world didn’t end. That was five years ago. When I look back, I can see only one set of footprints in the sand, and they belong to me. (I suppose Calvinists would have to say that I’m simply not one of the elect. But if Jesus didn’t die for me, I’m sure not going to spend my life serving him.)

I admire your strength and wish you and your new wife a happy life.

By: Wayne Cobb

Wayne Cobb — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 03:24:12 +0000

Dear Frank

This is the first time I have read all this. Way to go. You are doing all the right things. Can’t wait for the next chapter. I am the one who emailed you earlier today. Thanks for your honesty. We must speak sometime. Just want to pick your brain.

See ya Frank

Wayne Cobb

By: Frank Gantz

Frank Gantz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 11:24:37 +0000

Linda, thank you so much. I have such fond memories of being your pastor. You, your family and the church have demonstrated such love and care for pastors. I remember my first wedding was for your daughter, Kim. So many other firsts.

By: Linda Ratliff

Linda Ratliff — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 19:34:23 +0000

While you were in the “Pulpit”, I was blessed to have been in the “Pew”.
God is continuing to bless you as you work through this dark time. Please know I care about you and have wonderful memories of the time spent under your pastorial leadership. Linda

By: Linda Ratliff

Linda Ratliff — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 17:39:12 +0000

It is good to know God still has a very special place for you. While you were in the “Pulpit”, I feel blessed to have been in the “Pew”. God is bigger than any thing the Devil throws at us–even when we know better. We continue to love and care about you. Look forward to hearing from you soon. Linda

By: Frank Gantz

Frank Gantz — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 02:14:01 +0000

@Chuck Andrews Chuck, Duane was a strong influence and part of my life. I miss that we now live so far away.

By: Frank Gantz

Frank Gantz — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 02:12:56 +0000

@Rhonda I appreciate the comments Rhonda. Just one note - I'll get to introduce Suzie better in the next installment of my autobiography.

By: Rhonda

Rhonda — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 18:34:49 +0000

Frank I have enjoyed reading your autobiography it is hard to read this last part but I so admire you for your honesty. It takes a big person to put everything out there for the world to see. I am so happy you and Suzie have made it through all the storms she is a strong woman and the two of you are blessed to have each other…Stay strong my friend and God Bless!

Rhonda

By: Chuck Andrews

Chuck Andrews — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 01:45:43 +0000

Frank
Thanks for sharing your life. I’m enjoying getting to know you. I’ll have to call Duane and let him know.
Chuck Andrews