Early Life and Faith

Gary Paulsen was born in Chicago Heights, Illinois, and spent much of his childhood in Crown Point, Indiana. In 1969, he moved to Pasadena, California, where he joined the United States Navy. After completing his service, Gary worked with his father in the family dry cleaning business. In 1974, his life changed after he heard a sermon on Matthew 5:3, “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” That message led him to place his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and sparked a lasting love for studying and teaching God’s Word.

Ministry and Seminary

Soon after becoming a Christian, Gary began teaching in his local church. He led groups ranging from fourth graders to junior high students and post-college adults, and it was in that adult class that he met his wife, Dorothy. In the mid-1980s, Gary began taking Bible institute classes at Grace Community Church under the ministry of Pastor John MacArthur. Encouraged by the strong biblical teaching, he enrolled in The Master’s Seminary in 1989, earned a Bachelor of Theology degree in 1993, and soon afterward was called to serve as lead pastor of a small church plant in Glendora, California.

Family and Continued Service

In 1996, Gary and his family moved to Eugene, Oregon, where he returned to the dry cleaning business while continuing to serve faithfully in ministry. He worked with the junior high and high school AWANA program, led Bible studies, taught Sunday school theology classes, and occasionally preached at Emerald Bible Fellowship. He also worked part-time as a fly fishing guide on the McKenzie River, enjoying God’s creation in a hands-on way. Gary and Dorothy are blessed with four children, Nathaniel, Emily, Casey, and Laura, and six grandchildren.