It's not very often that a pastor advertises his services. But this is exactly what 37-year-old Shawn Pennant is doing.

The ordained minister, who completed his training in 2004, is now seeking a church to lead. The Westmoreland-based man of God, placed a text in THE STAR's textmania column, making public his search for a flock to lead.

The pastor told THE STAR that he was called by God to be a part of his ministry and said, if given a chance, he is sure he will make a difference and impact on the lives of those he leads. He also said his church would be a different one, as he would not place too much emphasis on offerings or tithes.

He said, "If there is any church out there that needs a pastor, I'm available. I will go just about anywhere and I want to lead persons who are genuinely hungry for leadership."

The pastor told THE STAR that though he currently attends an Adventist church, he is willing to lead any church, whether worship is done on a Saturday or Sunday. He said he is unable to pastor an Adventist church because he did not study at their institutions, but rather at the Faith Apostolic Bible School.

an effective leader

He said, "I have my own ideas. I know God called me and I want to be an effective leader." The 37-year-old said he once spread the word of God on buses, but said he is now ready to have a flock of his own. " I just need somewhere to start to make a difference. I'm just looking to take my pastoral role to a different level," he said. He explained that he would start a church of his own, but said he does not have a building within which to house such a church.

With regards to his stance on tithes and offerings, he said, "I am not into the tithes and offering business. When a man can lie down with another man, and just pay his tithes and offering and pastor don't see him, I am not into that. If you are not right, I don't want your tithes and offering."

The pastor said he hopes that a congregation will soon contact him as he is very eager to share his leadership. He said, "I know for sure that I can and I'm gonna make a difference."

Any congregation interested in being led by Pennant is being asked to contact him at 368-7632