OJ Zerbin, Calvary’s Lead Pastor is married to Barb and has six children, that’s right six!
Philosophy
OJ’s philosophy on ministry is that it first begins with your personal relationship with God and then has to be put into practice at home in your family.
He sees his six children and one son-in law as a wonderful blessing from the Lord. They have been blessed with one granddaughter thus far and are looking forward to many more grandchildren in the future. He is blessed to see all of his children actively serving the Lord. His passion for his family and for the congregation is that each one would grow into the full potential that God has for them.
His Story
He grew up on a farm outside of Edmonton where he developed a strong work ethic which he carries with him in how he approaches ministry. After studying Administrative Management at NAIT he joined the Edmonton Police Service in his early 20′s. It is at that time he started attending Calvary and began wooing his wife Barb. They married and began having children a few years later. After serving 12 yrs in various roles in the police service he transitioned into business. He pioneered several businesses as well as working in the corporate setting in marketing management. His combination of policing and business experience have given him a unique combination of insights and skill sets to effectively connect with the different demographic groups in society. He is equally comfortable serving in a downtown mission or presenting to a group of corporate executives.
While being involved at Calvary since the late 70′s serving in various volunteer roles he completed his theological studies. He served on the pastoral team parttime for a number of years before he joined the pastoral staff full time in 2001.
Ministry
O.J. desires to lead the church deeper in prayer and personal application of biblical principles resulting in transformation both of our own lives and our community. He believes that the local church when it is functioning as Christ has intended it to function, is the greatest place on earth and the practical hope for a broken and hurting society. That is why he serves in the local church and desires that Calvary be a safe place for you to both heal and grow in an authentic way.
Around the office OJ can be found laughing and making jokes, besides this he leads the pastoral team and provides vision and direction to the daily operation of the church. Preaching and teaching on Sundays, as well as the many ministry responsibilities and meetings with various people from the community and church during the week keep him on his toes.
