Answering The Call: From the Firehouse to God's House

By: Roy Wilkinson, Senior Pastor

Highlands Church of God

From the Firehouse to God's House

Transitioning from Deputy Fire Chief to full-time Senior Pastor has been both rewarding and challenging. After over 22 years in the fire service, I’ve gathered countless stories and lessons—many of which now guide me in my new role. I feel compelled to share these insights, in the hope that they’ll offer encouragement and guidance to others navigating their own journeys in leadership, ministry, or life.

A Career in Service

My career began with the Lake Wales Fire Department, a community with a rich firefighting history dating back to 1914. In 2000, at 25, I joined the department, excited but admittedly overwhelmed by the responsibility and scale of the work. Lake Wales had a dedicated team with diverse personalities, each bringing something unique to the table. It took time to build trust and find my place in this close-knit group.

Lessons from the Field

Working alongside colleagues from all walks of life, I gained insights into resilience, dedication, and the strength it takes to overcome challenges. My journey with the Lake Wales Fire Department started thanks to a close friend and lieutenant who saw potential in me and encouraged me to join his shift. He went beyond just helping me get the job—he truly took me in, becoming a mentor and a guide. With patience and care, he showed me the ropes, teaching me the discipline, tactics, and dedication that defined a true firefighter. This lieutenant was incredibly sharp, a natural leader, and someone who pushed everyone around him to excel. He taught me the value of courage, humility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, lessons I carry with me to this day. His influence helped shape the course of my career, and the impact he made on me is something I hope to pass on to others.

Another firefighter who had a tremendous impact on me was a man who’d lost vision in one eye due to an accident while working on a car. Despite this, he was an exceptional firefighter, and he took me in like a younger brother. He had a sharp wit, seemed to know a little about everything, and had an incredible talent for working on anything with an engine. Beyond his work skills, he taught me a great deal about resilience and family. With a son who had special needs, he demonstrated remarkable patience and strength in his family life, showing me what it truly means to persevere and love unconditionally.

There were others on the team who taught me valuable lessons as well. One firefighter who had struggled with alcoholism showed me the importance of discipline and respect for tradition. Another teammate—the only woman on our team at the time—faced constant tests of her strength and determination in a male-dominated field. She shone on the medical side, inspiring me with her commitment to helping others. Our officers, both sharp-minded and courageous, modeled the kind of leadership I still strive to emulate today.

Crossing the Bridge to Ministry

These early experiences on the fireground laid the foundation for my pastoral journey. I learned that true leadership isn’t just about skill or rank; it’s about humility, compassion, and a willingness to serve others selflessly. Now, as I serve in a different capacity, I’m grateful for the path that brought me here and hopeful that sharing these stories will bring value to your life as well.

Stay tuned for more reflections—stories from the fireground, lessons learned, and insights that bridge the worlds of firefighting, ministry, and personal growth.

Wherever you are, Answer the Call.