Malden, Mo., pastor takes over as Teen Challenge director

As the new executive director of Teen Challenge International Mid-America, the Rev. James Bolin was still learning the nuts and bolts of his position, but he said he feels his being chosen for the position was part of a divine plan.

"There's nothing greater than being in God's perfect will," Bolin said.

Bolin came to Teen Challenge from the Malden, Mo., First Assembly of God, where he was senior pastor. It wasn't so much a question of being interested in the job, he said, but more of a calling.

"I was very well aware of Teen Challenge and their work and have had them on several occasions minister at our church," he said. "I felt God opened the door for us. I'm confident this is God's will for the ministry and for Teen Challenge as well."

Bolin served 10 years in the U.S. Air Force and another 11 years in the Army Reserves. During the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, he was called back to active duty and was a Protective Service agent assigned to Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld in Washington, D.C.

He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration and a master's degree in organizational business management. An ordained minister in the Assemblies of God, he did his biblical studies at Global University.

Before being ordained, he was a state probation and parole officer in Poplar Bluff, Mo., for 12 years.

"I believe I can look back and see how God has prepared me for a job such as this," Bolin said. "Everything just fits."

Bolin replaces the Rev. Jack Smart, who has been promoted with Teen Challenge USA in Ozark, Mo.

Teen Challenge currently houses 132 students at its Cape Girardeau location and 10 students at the Teen Challenge Boarding Academy in Patterson, Mo., a ministry for troubled teenagers.

Bolin said he looks forward to working with Teen Challenge to continue the relationship it enjoys with the community.

"As we approach the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, I would like to express my appreciation to the community, to the businesses and to the individuals and thank them for their prayers and for their support," he said.

Bolin encourages anyone who would like more information about Teen Challenge or who would like to volunteer to contact the office at 335-6508.