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VIENNA -- When Tim Silker, who grew up in Howland for part of his life, learned he was being assigned to pastor at a church in Vienna, he looked forward to staying in Trumbull County.
Silker began as pastor Jan. 1 at New Life Community Church, where he and his wife Julie have been meeting with the congregation as they plan more programs and community outreach.
He said 20 years ago, when he and Julie committed their lives to Christ, they had a calling to devote their lives to full-time ministry and began their journey.
"We were getting to know God better through our church and relationship with Christ," he said.
Silker was a lay minister at North-Mar Church for 20 years and served in different capacities, learning of children, youth and young adult ministry programs, adult outreach and mission work.
He said two years ago, the pastor of the Vienna non-denominational church left for family obligations.
"We have a parent church in Wilmington, Pa. that helped us at this campus get us on our feet here. This church has a very warm and welcoming congregation. They are tireless workers constantly looking for ways to help others in the community. We are excited to have this church become known in the neighborhood and community as a community center people can come to if they have a need," Silker said.
He said the most important thing is the church and its members continue to grow in faith and knowledge of Christ.
Discussion has focused on more youth services, mission work and community outreach.
The Silkers both grew up in Howland and knew each other at Howland High School.
"It is nice to have an opening so close to home," said Tim Silker, a Buffalo, New York, native whose family moved to Howland in the 1980s when he was in high school.
Tim Silker has been in the petroleum exploration and production industry part-time, which also allows him to work as a licensed social worker and pastor. He graduated with a degree in Christian ministry from Crown College in St. Bonifacius, Minnesota.
Julie Silker is an office manager and has been active in women's ministry and leadership, as well as family and outreach ministry.
"We encourage fellowship with our church families and friends," she said.