Thirty two years ago I commenced preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. The very next day my beloved mother Bertha Lee Evans said to me, "Son if you're going to preach you must know what you're preaching about." She then took me the very next day and enrolled me in class at the Moody Bible Institute and paid my first tuition.

I shall never forget her loving words that propelled me to study God's word. Therefore, thirty two years later by the grace of God and the support of my loving wife Precious and the prayers of you my Friendship family a long time journey was finally completed.

I graduated on August 1, 2009 earning my Doctor of Divinity Degree with a 4.0 GPA from Masters International School of Divinity, Evansville, Indiana. To God Be the Glory!

Over the past three decades I have attended several  Bible Colleges, Seminaries and Theological Institutions to bring to fruition Mom's dream. I wanted to tell you my beloved Friendship family my story so that those who are struggling, yet striving to finish a lifelong dream or project, always remember with God all things are possible.

Once again I want to say to my lovely wife Precious and our children, thanks for your prayers, support and patience with me. Thanks for helping me, challenging me and at times chiding me to finish a long time project. Without fear of contradiction wihout God, you and Mom, " I never would have made it." Thank You!

To "The Ship." Over the past years particularly the last several months. I have devoted several hours to completing my Doctoral program. Perhaps I missed a call, a hospital visit, or forgot to follow up with you, I apologize. Nevertheless with this project completed certainly I can give full focus and devotion to the Ministry I hold close to my heart.

In closing, this Doctoral degree does not mean I'm more important than you, or I know all and know everything in God's word. It simply means like Jabez, I desire God to enlarge my territory. I look forward to teaching in the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education and other Theological Institutions. Once again, I'm a living testimony. If you take one step, "with God all things are possible."

Dr. John A. Evans Sr. D.D.