Duane Garrett

Position: John R. Sampey Professor of Old Testament Interpretation

Spouse name: Patty (26 years)

Children: Melissa (21), Kristin (19), Jesse (16)

Pets: Dusty, Celia and Oliver (cats)

An interesting fact about your family: One of our children was born in Korea, one in the United States and one in Canada.

Hometown: Houston, Texas

Current church: Highview Baptist Church, Louisville, Ky.

Current local church ministry: Recently finished a 5-year pastorate

Hobbies: Hiking, skiing

How you became a Christian: Through the witness of a friend and by listening to Billy Graham

Most influential persons in your life: My mom and my wife

Something surprising students might not know about you: I was in the United States Marines Corp.

What books, besides the Bible, have most influenced you and why: The writings of C. S. Lewis, because of his strong commitment to "Mere Christianity"

What influenced your decision to come to Southern Seminary: The strong sense of mission here as articulated by Dr. Mohler

Ministry philosophy: Reading the Bible meditatively (in Hebrew and Greek) is the most effective way a minister can spend his preparation time.

Ministry passion: Preparing people with a sense of call to missions

What do you like most about teaching: Bringing new insights on the Bible to students

Life Bible verse: Proverbs 1:7

Favorite author: J.R.R. Tolkien

Favorite preacher: R. Albert Mohler Jr.

Favorite course you teach: Old Testament Introduction

Favorite movie: Either "Pirates of the Caribbean" or "Groundhog Day"

Favorite restaurant: Ruby Tuesday

A word of wisdom for Towers readers: Remember the two greatest commandments; everything else is just busywork.