Dr. John W. Crowder (DMin) is the Sr. Pastor of First Baptist Church of West, TX, where he has served for over thirty years. He has degrees from Baylor University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and George W. Truitt Theological Seminary. John helped his community recover after a massive explosion in 2013. Since then, he has spent a great deal of time studying disaster recovery. He has led multiple training sessions for pastors and has spoken on the subject many times in churches and civic organizations. Anchor Point is a culmination of over a decade of experience, study, and working with others going through disaster recovery.
One of the greatest strengths of Anchor Point is how it lifts up concepts often overlooked. Crowder dispenses wisdom on important aspects of life and leadership which are seldom taught-like the ""ministry of presence""-the art of simply being there when words fail. Or how to build a community that doesn't just survive but helps others recover, too. He reminds us that leadership after disaster isn't about having all the answers, but about being an answer-present, compassionate, and rooted. -from the Foreword, RAND JENKINS, President / CEO, On Mission Network, (OnMissionNetwork.org) In 24 years of ministry, there is only one book besides the Bible I've told other ministers they need to have. Now, there are two. John Crowder's Anchor Point is a master course for facing major disasters that provides principles transferrable to the more common tragedies that are part of every ministry. Every minister needs to be ready. -ERIC BLACK, Executive Director, Publisher & Editor, Baptist Standard Publishing Co. John's experience in West, Texas proves to all of us that tragedy can happen anywhere. The one thing any leader can do now is to prepare their heart and mind for leadership during a time of disaster. Anchor Point is the best resource you will find to show you the terrain you will face as you navigate your community through the challenges of disaster recovery. Dr. Jason Burden, President of Texans On Mission, Pastor, First Baptist Church, Lubbock In times of crisis, people look for leaders who can help them through the storm. Local pastors play a unique role in their community when disasters strike. Dr. John Crowder has lived through and led the folks of West, TX, in recovery and renewal after a terrible tragedy. Out of his own experiences, he offers wisdom and guidance for those who face similar crises. Anchor Point will be the go-to resource for people of faith to be prepared in the face of disaster. Terry Johnston, Director, Waco Regional Baptist Association