Barry T. McGregor
Barry T. McGregor, affectionately known as "T," has become an integral part of the Vallejo Drive Church family. He has already made a mark with his servant heart even though he joined our church rather recently. Born in Florida, T spent his childhood in a blend of military discipline and academic pursuits. His father, a US Army serviceman, was away for long periods of time, leaving his mother, a university professor of journalism, to raise T and his five siblings with the support of extended family.
T's early dream of becoming a veterinarian led him to a unique choice of high school. This institution combined rigorous academics with practical farmwork. The students started classes each day at 6:00 a.m. then transitioned to a farm for hands-on experience at 12:30 p.m. This demanding schedule instilled in T a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Following his father's footsteps, T enlisted in the US Marines after high school. He served for six years, taking deployments in England, Japan, and Hong Kong. Upon returning to the US, he retired from the Marines and settled in the San Fernando Valley, a decision influenced by a romantic interest.
T embarked on a diverse career path, initially working as a personal security guard for a concert promoter. He then transitioned into providing bodyguard services for various celebrities for 15 years. Around 2006, he shifted gears once more, joining UPS, to which he dedicated the next 30 years until his recent retirement.
T's spiritual journey began in 1990, leading him to baptism in 1995 at the Westminster SDA Church. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he heard about Vallejo Drive Church and was drawn by the presence of Pastor James Kyle, whom he knew from the Breath of Life ministry. Eager to connect with Pastor Kyle, T transferred his church membership. Ironically, Pastor Kyle left Vallejo Drive Church shortly after T joined.
Despite initial concerns about the church's atmosphere, T found Vallejo to be a warm and welcoming community. Contrary to the apprehensions expressed by some of his friends, he discovered that Vallejo Drive Church members were friendly, kind, and engaging, embracing individuals regardless of their background or appearance. This positive experience quickly made him feel at home.
T has been an active participant in church life, readily lending a helping hand wherever needed. He has served faithfully as an elder and a Sabbath School superintendent and as part of the deacon ministry. However, T considers his greatest joy to be his children, Noah (14) and Ataly (12). Both of them were homeschooled until three years ago, when they enrolled at Glendale Adventist Academy, where they are now thriving as straight-A students.
Reflecting on recent challenges, T felt a deep need to rededicate his life to Jesus. He will be publicly reaffirming his commitment through rebaptism during this Sabbath worship service. We are grateful for T's steadfast faith, his generous spirit of service, and his valuable contributions to the church community.
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