Jim Corwonski

I was raised Catholic at a young age and went through Catechism. But literally a week before my first communion, my parents decided to switch to Protestantism. After a short time at a Presbyterian church, we switched to a little one-room Freewill Baptist church. I accepted Christ around 9-10, got baptized at 12, and even then was involved in peer leadership. I became disillusioned with my teen Christian peers and the way “they” were living and used that as an excuse to run away from (and try to deny) God for the next 15+ years.

When I finally turned back to God, I began worshiping in a small non-denominational church that gathered in a small community center. There was always a lot to do, and I couldn’t help but jump in to do what I could. That quickly became more and more, and even when we moved and I found a church of over 500 people, I found that getting involved (and even leading) was the best way to connect with people and God.

That continued when I moved to CA. Serving (and therefore leading when called) is my spiritual passion, but I also love to study the Word and Will of God from an analytical standpoint. I just need to be careful not to get so caught up in the minutia and intellect that I forget to listen to His spiritual guidance.

I served on the board of the SDA church before we moved away, and I look forward to serving on the OCC board now. To me, that means, yes, helping to guide (in some small way) the direction of our church, but most importantly to serve our congregation and to take whatever burden I can from our current leaders.

I have worked in the technical field most of my life. I began as an analytical chemist, got into computers, and eventually became a specialist helping pharma and biotech companies to ensure that the systems work properly per their needs and regulations. To this day, I regret a little that I didn’t go into teaching (I apparently have a talent for it). I am trying to decide whether it is too late to pursue that, professional ministry, or both.  It seems that regardless, after having had to put my career on hold because of my kidneys, it is time for a new chapter.

My wife and I are now empty-nesters, although our youngest daughter, Sydney plans to graduate from UCSD this Spring and will move back in with us while she works toward her teaching certification (both to Candy’s delight). Our oldest daughter, Mandy (26) lives in Portland and just got married to her college sweetheart around Christmas. I also have a son, Justin (31) who lived out here with us for a few years but moved back to NJ for financial reasons a couple of years ago and actually rents a room from my sister at the moment. I additionally have one more daughter, Kayla (21) who lives with her mother in Iowa and from whom I am currently and sadly estranged. I suppose I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our dog, Butch and cat, Harper.

I love to read, write, play games, watch crime dramas with my wife, and solve mental puzzles. I really love competition, and am sad that I have had to give up softball and volleyball. My wife and I WILL get back into bowling soon. Oh, and I cannot forgive my love for the Philadelphia Eagles. Go Birds!!