As a CCFR firefighter for more than 12 years, Mike Barter came to the rescue of hundreds of local residents in need. As much as he had a love of the fire service, Barter says he had a calling from a higher authority.
Barter retired from CCFR at the end of January to take the position as pastor at the First Baptist Church of Vandalia. “I miss the excitement of and camaraderie of being a firefighter, but I am at peace that I am where God wants me to be, even though it meant leaving my comfort zone,” says Barter.
Barter’s days are now spent meeting with parishioners and planning twice-weekly sermons. The Board of Directors honored Barter for his service at a meeting in February. “Mike was a great asset to our department and the community, we will miss having him at Central County” says Chief Russ Mason. “But, it is wonderful to see him answering his lifelong calling.”
Visit our Facebook page for more photos.