Not Many Mighty: Pastor Paul Dziadul In this installment of Not Many Mighty, Stan sits down with longtime friend and fellow pastor Paul Dziadul, lead pastor of Lake Wildwood Baptist Church in Macon, Georgia. Paul’s story is a powerful reminder that God often chooses the unlikely, the ordinary, and the imperfect to accomplish His purposes. From growing up as the ninth of ten children on a tobacco farm in Connecticut, to a radical conversion at a church camp as a teenager, to more than 25 years of pastoral ministry, Paul shares the moments that shaped his faith and calling. But this conversation goes far beyond the highlights of ministry. Paul opens up about some of the darkest seasons of his pastoral journey—including four years of depression, a devastating house fire, panic attacks, and the painful reality of being betrayed by people he had poured his life into. He also shares how the gospel, trusted mentors, his wife, and a willingness to bring hidden struggles into the light helped him keep going. Stan and Paul also have a candid conversation about pastoral calling and the next generation of ministry leaders. Paul challenges the familiar idea that “if you can do anything else, do it,” arguing instead that churches should help recognize, affirm, train, and correct men who desire the noble work of shepherding God's people. Along the way, they talk about suffering, mental health, generational faithfulness, the importance of having people who can speak truth into our lives, and why ministry is never meant to be lived alone. For pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone considering a call to ministry, this is an honest conversation about the joy, pain, perseverance, and grace found in a life surrendered to Jesus. The Shepherds Circle is the official podcast of 6:14 Ministries, a ministry dedicated to encouraging pastors and strengthening churches. Learn more about 6:14 Ministries at 614ministries.org.
