Paul R Smith, 59, born and raised in Olney, Illinois. Youngest of three children, Paul has one sister and one brother. Paul has no family at home. He loves animals, especially dogs; and, has focused his attention on rescue pups, the latest being 2 huskies (John and Charles) which were his faithful companions and friends for the last 17 years. Paul received his undergraduate degrees from Eastern Illinois University. He majored in Elementary and Special Education: TMH, EMH & LD. In 1984, Paul moved from Illinois to Missouri to attend seminary at Saint Paul School of Theology in Kansas City. He received a student pastoral appointment which led to his staying in Missouri upon his graduation. Paul was ordained an Elder in the Missouri (West) Conference of the United Methodist Church in 1988. Paul has served 4 full-time appointments for the last 30 years. These appointments have been a mix of rural and urban local churches; as well as serving as a Campus Minister in Springfield and serving the Annual Conference as Director of Youth Ministry. Paul loves to bring the scriptures to life in his Preaching; Bible and Life Topic Studies; and be in Hands-on-Mission work. He has a passion for Israel-Palestine for both Spiritual growth and working with Christian ministries there. Paul has been to Israel-Palestine 15 times in the last 25 years leading tours and working as a Volunteers-In-Mission team member. It has been a joy and privilege to develop friendships and offer support to families and Christian Ministries throughout Israel-Palestine. Paul love being able to introduce others not only to the historical sights, but also to those living and working there. Paul loves to cook and enjoys entertaining. He has fun playing pinochle and bowling. He likes to clear his head by putting the top down on his convertible, filling up the tank, packing some Diet Pepsi and wandering through the hillside and country roads seeing what mysteries will unfold.