Pastor Art Bostic will give his last sermon this Sunday, Dec. 8.

He has decided to step down as senior pastor in order to spend more time with his grandchildren. This will be a new chapter in a long life of serving that started 41 years ago.

Pastor Bostic pastored his first service in Twin Falls, Idaho in 1972. Along the way to his current position, he served in several churches, many in Oklahoma, before he found Sooner Road Church of God in 2002, located at 1724 S. Sooner Road.

His son Joshua Bostic said, "He became a pastor because he genuinely loves people more than anyone I know. He wanted to see people’s lives changed as they encountered and grew in relationship with Jesus Christ."

Pastor Bostic, along with his wife Linda, has strived to help people grow a relationship with Christ in his most important message: salvation. He has taught that Christ died for us so that we could have a relationship God.

He also accomplished in his service career one of the greatest feats of balancing his family and job equally, his son said.

"I have so many memories of his selflessness to those around him.  I think to sum it up I have so much respect for the way he has opened his arms and heart to the people from every walk, background, color, [and] nationality," said Joshua Bostic. "His heart for people drove him in every aspect of his ministry."

During his career, Pastor Bostic also found time to serve on the Oklahoma Church of God State Council, the Youth and Christian Education Board, pastored his church, and still managed to maintain a great relationship with his family.

"He went to every game, choir concert, and family event for all of his children," his son said. "He never neglected his church or his family."

Although the Bostic’s may be stepping down in the church, they believe the Lord will continue to use them to minister the hearts of those they are around as they continue to serve.