Summer spotlight: Dylan Gunton
C.J. Eldridge, News and Features Editor
Every summer, North Greenville students find ways to serve–whether this be through mission trips, volunteering at churches or giving back to the community. Christian Studies junior Dylan Gunton worked as a youth pastor for Victor Baptist Church in Greer over his break.
Gunton feels called to work in ministry. A path opened for him to dive into this calling almost a year ago at a chili cookoff of all things. The cookoff’s organizer wanted someone to share their testimony during it, so Gunton offered his.
This piqued the senior pastor of Victor Baptist’s interest. The church needed a youth pastor, and he felt that Gunton was the man for the job after hearing him speak. They got coffee together to talk about it, and the rest is history.
Gunton said, “It’s taken a lot of trust . . . I don’t see myself as super qualified, but that doesn’t matter because the Lord is the one who qualifies.”
This started out as a part time position during the school year and transitioned into full time over the summer, requiring Gunton to remain in South Carolina. He comes from Florida to attend NGU.
Gunton needed somewhere to stay and found a lady who was opening up her house to those working in ministry. There are many people who will provide temporary housing to missionaries, ministers and volunteers within the church.
But these opportunities do not always fall into your lap. It is just a matter of asking around and seeking these people out.
Door after door was opened for Gunton to get into the position he has now. God does this for countless people across the globe. It may not always be the most obvious choice either. Gunton suggests a good first start is getting plugged into a local church.
“Step one is to get involved in a bible believing church who is equipping their members to serve the community,” he said. “Find what you’re passionate about. Is it students? Is it the elderly? Is it maybe widows or younger adults our age? Whatever it is, find what you’re passionate about and pursue those things.”
Churches and charitable organizations are always looking for people to volunteer and help with their mission. However, you have to know what is going on at these places by being connected. Talk to your pastor and let them know what you are passionate about and what you want to help with.
Gunton says one of his goals is to eventually become a senior pastor. He is, however, content with wherever the Lord places him. Two years ago, he never thought it would’ve been possible to get the opportunities he has.
“He [God] doesn’t need us, but He delights in using us. He wants to use us. So when you give Him your yes, He’s going to take that yes and do things that you never could really comprehend in your mind,” Gunton said.
God often opens up paths for us that He wants us to take. We have to make the first step and have faith that He will care for us along the way. Christians willing to volunteer their time are needed everywhere.
Think about the impact you want to have here in Tigerville, back in your home state or abroad in the wider world and seek out the people who can help you achieve that. Everyone has to start somewhere–so take that first step over your summer break.
