PASTOR - DON COCKLIN
Don Cocklin took over First Christian's pulpit in 1984 and has reared a family in the church. Born in 1956 in Griswold, Iowa, Don was the fifth of six children. He married his high school sweetheart, Jacqueline Glenn in 1977. They have three children: Jillian; Katie, her husband Thomas and their children Eden Alice & Lucy Ella; and Paul and his wife Michelle and their children Timothy, Elizabeth, Mary & Abigail.
In addition to his duties as pastor of the church, Don is active in the community. He teaches in the areas of psychology and human growth and development at Panola College, is an active member of the Carthage Ministerial Fellowship and is frequently called on as a speaker at local clubs and civic organizations.
Don's "laid back" demeanor is reflected in services at First Christian Church. While services are still formal, they are presented in a relaxed atmosphere and are sprinkled heavily with music, one of Don's passions. He serves as music director, directs the choir for special numbers and has organized a musical group with a decidedly country feel. He often presents vocal solos to his own guitar accompaniment. Don began his life in the pulpit in 1977, pastoring a congregation while still a student at Ozark Bible College in Joplin, Mo., where he earned his Bachelor of Theology degree in 1979. He also holds a Master of Arts degree in Family and Marriage Counseling from the University of Texas at Tyler.
Following his Master's degree program, Don worked a 2,000-hour internship and passed his test to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. After leaving Sabine Valley MH/MR he opened a private counseling service which he still operates part time.
In addition to his duties as pastor of the church, Don is active in the community. He teaches in the areas of psychology and human growth and development at Panola College, is an active member of the Carthage Ministerial Fellowship and is frequently called on as a speaker at local clubs and civic organizations.
Don's "laid back" demeanor is reflected in services at First Christian Church. While services are still formal, they are presented in a relaxed atmosphere and are sprinkled heavily with music, one of Don's passions. He serves as music director, directs the choir for special numbers and has organized a musical group with a decidedly country feel. He often presents vocal solos to his own guitar accompaniment. Don began his life in the pulpit in 1977, pastoring a congregation while still a student at Ozark Bible College in Joplin, Mo., where he earned his Bachelor of Theology degree in 1979. He also holds a Master of Arts degree in Family and Marriage Counseling from the University of Texas at Tyler.
Following his Master's degree program, Don worked a 2,000-hour internship and passed his test to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. After leaving Sabine Valley MH/MR he opened a private counseling service which he still operates part time.
Musician -Christie Colvin
Since 1987 Christie has been providing the music that adds so much to our worship times. She plans for services, choir, accompanies individuals presenting special music, plays for Fifth Sunday Sings, revivals and any other programs as needed.
Nursery Attendant
A nursery is provided each Sunday morning during Sunday School and Worship.
