The Rev. Bill Vincent, interim pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Cape Girardeau, served at churches in Ohio, Illinois and in Washington, Mo., before being led to interim ministry. Vincent said he has studied church transformation and transitional ministry the past several years. "When two colleagues asked if I had ever considered interim ministry, it seemed a perfect time to ponder, pray and see if God might be leading me in that direction and here I am," Vincent said. He has been at First Presbyterian Church since May 2010.

Question: When and how did you decide that being a pastor was for you?

Answer: When I was in high school, I felt a calling to ministry. People welcomed my participation in the life of the church, including serving on the worship committee. Not only did I enjoy being involved in various aspects of church life, I was also affirmed by the congregation as having gifts appropriate for serving in the church. This calling was confirmed by myself and others during college and seminary.

I also happen to be part of a family with a tradition of Presbyterian pastors, including my mother's father and two uncles.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish at this church?

A: In this time of transition, I seek to help this congregation identify and begin to embrace the next chapter of its ministry in preparation for calling its next permanent/installed pastor. We have almost completed our mission study which will provide focus for the actions we need to take and the choices we need to make for our life together and ministry in the community.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

A: Whether it be from preaching a sermon or leading worship, visiting someone in the hospital or moderating a discussion, I am energized when I see indications that I have helped make a difference in people's lives.

Q: What's your favorite verse and why?

A: Romans 8:38-39: "For I have become absolutely convinced that neither death nor life, neither messenger of Heaven nor monarch of earth, neither what happens today nor what may happen tomorrow, neither a power from on high nor a power from below, nor anything else in God's whole world has any power to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord!"

This verse has always provided much comfort and encouragement, reminding me that no matter what happens in life, nothing, absolutely nothing, can change God's love for me.

Q: Where do you find strength and support to minister to and help others?

A: My wife has been a constant support for me, as have our children and the rest of the family. Colleagues and friends have played a vital role in supporting and encouraging me in my ministry. Prayer has helped nurture that connection to God that I find so essential, and Scripture has provided that guidance and direction that is so needed.

Q: What would you like people to know about you or your church?

A: First Presbyterian Church tends to strike others as being "traditional" and "downtown." That does not mean "tied down" and "dead." The people here strive for worship that is spiritually enhancing and uplifting, fellowship that nurtures and builds community, and service that makes a difference. Come and see for yourself.