Pastor Robert Pate has a great love for the Bible and teaching it to others.  He began studying for the ministry while still in high school with the Liberty Home Bible Institute.  He went on to earn a Graduate of Theology diploma and a Bachelor of Science degree in pastoral studies from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, a Master of Divinity degree from Luther Rice Seminary in Lithonia, Georgia, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary in Lynchburg, Virginia.  After serving as a pastor in Illinois, he and his family moved to Iowa and has been pastor of Bible Community Baptist Church since the spring of 1996.  Robert has been married for 39 years to his wife, Renae.  They have four adult daughters.