Pastor Bob and Linda Abel came to First Presbyterian Church in August of 2002. Bob is a native of East Tennessee (9/15/48) and Linda grew up in southern New Jersey (9/9/48). They attended Maryville College, a Presbyterian school in Tennessee, and got married in 1969. Following graduation from Union Theological Seminary in 1974 (Doctor of Ministry), they have served churches in Chattanooga, TN, Perry and Laddonia, MO (two church field), Hobart, OK, Bonita Springs, FL, and Bowling Green, SC before coming to the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. Bob and Linda have two children, Barbara (3/8/71) and Jonathan (12/29/72) and five grandchildren who also live in Franklin.

Pastor Bob enjoys gardening, wood working, most sports (especially tennis), music and singing, leading others in singing with his guitar, going on mission trips, and people of all ages. Linda enjoys teaching Hardanger Embroidery, a form of counted cut work originating in Norway, has completed training as a lay pastor in Providence Presbytery, and has earned a Certificate in Spiritual Formation from Columbia Seminary in Decatur, GA.

Bob and Linda live in their own home in Otto, NC, just a few miles from the church.   Bob spends most mornings until 10am studying in his home office, but is available for appointments at the church office after 10am. He enjoys visiting members and friends most afternoons.

The Abels and the First Presbyterian Church family hope visitors and new residents to Franklin will visit us for worship and all aspects of our life and ministry together. Pastor Bob would welcome the opportunity to visit in the home of anyone interested in our church to answer questions and to become better acquainted.

 

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First Presbyterian Church of Franklin, North Carolina