The Rev. Robert Hinkley graduated from seminary two years ago and has been pastoring in Ardmore at Trinity Lutheran Church for the past year. During that time his congregation has almost doubled. When he started pastoring there were about 30 to 40 people attending services. Now there are about 60, and the church members have become more active in their faith. He attributes this growth to a great deal of visitation.
Smaller churches have a more personal contact with their shepherd.
Numbers do not mean success. Quality is better than quantity. He believes people should get back to the basics. Parents should have an active part in teaching their children the basics of faith like the Ten Commandments, the Lord's Prayer, and the Apostles' Creed. Hinkley has made some changes at the church since he has been here.