Don is a licensed, ordained Baptist minister. For over 40 years, he has served in full-time ministry, beginning as minister to youth, pastor, college faculty member, church growth consultant, family ministry director, and now pastoral counselor.
Don has a Masters in Ministry (Church Leadership and Administration) from Bethany Theological Seminary, a Doctor of Christian Counseling from Andersonville Theological Seminary, and diplomas for completed studies in fitness and nutrition through two professional career development programs. He is also Advanced Board Certified as a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor by the National Christian Counselors Association. Since 1983, Don has logged over 32,000 fitness miles and has been married to Carole for 34 years.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Pastor’s Kid and Early Ministry
I was born into a pastor's home (Dad pastored 40 years), trusted Christ for salvation at age five, surrendered to full-time ministry at age 17, then went on to college and seminary and to serve in useful ministry for about 15 years.
Early Failure
In 1983, while pastoring the fastest growing church in our state, my ministry and marriage failed. For several years, I was discouraged by my failure, but in time, I began to learn about the Father's heart for the marred vessel, that he does not throw it away, but makes it again another vessel according to his redemptive plan.
Renewal
In 1990, I remarried, moved to Atlanta, returned to college and seminary, completed studies for two post graduate degrees, and in 2004 earned certification as a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor, now Advanced Certified.
FBA and GraceRenewal Counseling
In Atlanta, I taught The Early Morning Adult Sunday School Class at First Baptist Atlanta for three years, and then in 2002, began GracePoint Counseling (now GraceRenewal Counseling)
CAROLE COLTRANE WHISNANT
