It’s a question every kid gets asked:  “What do you want to be when you grow up?”.  I imagine Tyler Sprouse’s Kindergarten teacher was quite surprised when, after looking through stacks of future cowboys and firemen, she found his choice, a pastor. 

 

Some may call that foreshadowing, but Sprouse knows there’s a much bigger explanation.

 

After graduating from Bridgeport High School in 2013, Sprouse had plans to play basketball at Alderson Broaddus University in Phillipi.  A key Bible verse puts those plans in perspective.  Proverbs 16:9 says, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines or steps.”  And so He has. 

 

Sprouse, who originally planned to be a physician’s assistant, transferred to West Virginia University in the middle of his freshman year.  What seemed like an inconvenience at the time turned out to be a blessing in disguise. 

 

“When I transferred, it was right at the deadline and there were no dorm rooms available,” said Sprouse.  “I had to commute from Bridgeport and, at the time, it seemed challenging.” 

 

While in Bridgeport, Sprouse heard about a young adult Bible study that was being led by Rev. Ken Ramsey at the Bridgeport United Methodist Church. 

 

“I debated going, but decided to go and it was awesome,” he said.

 

The study offered an in-depth analysis of Galatians and created a bond among its members. 

 

“I could see the passion with which Rev. Ramsey delivered the Word and I began to think that was what I wanted to do," Sprouse said.

 

A few weeks later, the movie, “God’s Not Dead” was playing in the local theater.  In the movie, the pastor gave guidance to the student about debating with his professor. 

 

“As I watched them interact, the thoughts of being a minister emerged again. I could see myself telling others the Good News of Christ as well as serving the needs of the community and helping others in their spiritual lives," he said. “The experiences that I had during this time were very personal.  I sensed powerfully God calling me to be a pastor.” 

 

Almost a year ago to the day, Sprouse chose an unusual setting in which to tell Rev. Ramsey about his calling. 

 

“We were sitting at a middle school lock-in at four in the morning when I told him about it," said Sprouse. 

 

Ramsey has offered tireless support and guidance in Sprouse’s new journey. 

 

“I can’t say enough about how grateful I am that he has taken me under his wing and mentored me.  He has helped me in the ministry process, but also in growing closer to Christ," he said.

 

Rev. Steve Engle has also been a tremendous influence on Sprouse. 

 

“I was fortunate enough to be present at the confirmation class that he led and it was great to be able to learn from him,” he said.

 

Sprouse’s parents, Jennifer and Brad Sprouse of Bridgeport, were not entirely surprised when he told them of his calling. 

 

“From an early age, Tyler truly loved going to church.  He was engrossed in his Sunday school class, reciting scriptures and talking about Bible lessons all the time,” said his mother.  “He decided to be baptized at the age of five.  Even at that young age, the pastor talked to him and said Tyler understood what it meant to be baptized and wanted to live life for Christ.”

 

Over the years, Tyler developed a passion for basketball, another thing he and Rev. Ramsey have in common.  His involvement with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Bridgeport High School was another telling sign that he may go into the ministry.

 

“During his senior year, he led the devotions for the group and really enjoyed sharing and discussing his faith,” said Jennifer.  “During his senior basketball season, he would arrive before the other players so he could read his devotions and pray before the games.”

 

Sprouse’s parents have been behind him 100 percent after hearing of his calling. 

 

“It has been remarkable to watch God working through him.  He has such a deep joy and peace and we are so happy for him and so proud of him,” his mother said.

 

Sprouse is now a religious studies major at WVU. He has also completed the candidacy process in the United Methodist Church. 

 

“The process is about a year-long venture in which I discern specifically what my calling was and learn more about ordained ministry in the United Methodist Church, among other things," he said.  

 

A few weeks ago, at the weekly youth meeting Sprouse assists, the group threw a surprise party for him to celebrate becoming a certified candidate for ministry. 

 

“I was just about to begin the message for the evening when Rev. Ramsey put on 'Celebration' by Kool and the Gang and everyone started dancing around.  He then described what it meant for me to be a certified candidate and we had cake and a great time,” said Sprouse.

 

One of the most emotional moments of the evening came when Sprouse was presented with a very special gift from Tim Morgan. 

 

“He gave me one of the robes his father wore when he was a pastor.  I can’t tell you how special that gift was to me,” said Sprouse.

 

But, as Sprouse is quick to point out, “This story is not about me.  It is a testament to how God can work in our lives and guide us to where we need to be.  I rejoice in knowing this is the plan God has for my life and I cannot wait to continue this journey of ministry.”