Blog

We are continuing our series on getting to know your church leaders a little bit better. Read along to learn more about Pam Cravens, who serves as one of our Women's Community Bible Study leaders. 

Where were you born, and do you still consider that home, or somewhere else?

I was born in Omaha, Nebraska. I have lived in Nebraska, Arizona, and New Mexico. I consider New Mexico, home (35 years).

What did you want to be when you grew up – and is that still a dream?

From 3rd-6th grade, I wanted to be a veterinarian. I love animals, but that career is not a dream.

What or who was your earliest spiritual influence?

My mother loved Jesus, and our family Pastor, Gerald Zook, had a great deal of passion for Jesus.

How and when did Christ call you to Himself?

I was baptized at 10 years old by our family Pastor Gerald Zook, who talked to me about baptism at home. The next Sunday at church I was baptized. I remember loving Jesus from the first time I can even remember.

What is a scripture you often read or share with others?

Psalm 18:16-19: He reached down from on high and took hold of me. He drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, and from my foes who were too strong for me. They confronted me on the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. He rescued me because he delighted in me.

What is a special answered prayer you’ve received from the Lord?

I had a brain tumor shortly after Dan and I moved to Australia. That is when he gave me the scripture (Psalm 18:16-19). The Lord encouraged me, and led me through a successful surgery. Every step was led by his hand.

What is a blessing and what is a challenge in serving as a Bible study leader?

The blessing is learning and sharing as we study God’s word first hand. The Lord blesses that time every time. We then get to know Him better.

What are your hobbies and how did you get into them?

I hike, I always have loved to hike, and I love to take walks either by myself or with others. My two dogs are my latest hobby.

What is your favorite family tradition?

I love to go into the Pecos area in the Santa Fe National Forest and cut down our family Christmas tree. Our family loves my homemade chicken noodle soup, which we have on Christmas Eve evening, when we celebrate our Savior's birth.

How do you enjoy spending a day off?

During my day off, I prefer riding my mountain bike along the Rio Grande river, on the Bosque Trail in Albuquerque. I also love riding in the Sonora Desert, Ft. McDowell reserve area, near Fountain Hills, Az.

What is the perfect meal?

My perfect meal is salmon along with a salad made from lettuce, sweet potatoes, blueberries, avocados, and fruit. Then covered in balsamic vinegar and olive oil. 

Who or what never fails to make you laugh?

My husband Dan, my daughter Becca, and my sisters, Sarah, Debbie, and Beth, all make me laugh.

We asked Dan: 

What is your favorite trait of Pam's?

What is something Pam does that will always make you smile?

She wakes up every morning, says hello, and kisses my cheek.