Reginald C. Payne is my oldest friend. We grew up in the same congregation. We basically started preaching together. We were ordained together.

My father died as I was flying home to Los Angeles from Detroit. Reginald picked me up from the airport that day.

We were roommates for several years. And we served together during the beginning of my first pastorate. Reginald was also my first preaching assistant. We called him “Ready Reggie.”

Twenty-two years ago, Reginald was called to pastor the Full Gospel Baptist Church in Los Angeles (not affiliation with denomination). Three years ago, he was also called to pastor the Good Samaritan Baptist Church.

The following is my conversation with Reginald Payne about faith and ministry and our mutual influences. Enjoy!

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