Tom Paradis
Handyman
I first attended Payson Park E-Free church when I moved to the Portland area in 1997.
As we moved to our current location in the spring of 2007, I participated in the Saturday morning workdays and during one of them I was asked if I would be willing to serve the church as Handyman. Based on my early experiences in maintenance, working around my home and helping friends, I felt up to the task.
It’s been challenging at times, like when there were 1 foot plus snows every 3 to 4 days, and very rewarding to see the church community working together to preserve and protect God’s building. I feel privileged to be able to continue in this capacity and be trusted as a steward of this building. By the way, an important part of this position is knowing when to call in the experts or a second set of hands.
My life verse has been Prov 3:27 – Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it is in your power to do so. Keeping this in mind has often helped me to focus on others’ needs.
Other ministries of the church that I have participated in are Prayer, Men’s Ministry, Stewardship Commission, Church liaison for ABBA Women’s Choice and along with Karen coordinated Financial Peace University. I also attended Ramsey Solutions’ Financial Coach Master Training and can assist individuals and couples with planning their personal finances.
I live with my wife, Karen and our dog Molly. We enjoy spending time with our children and grandkids just sharing a meal and playing games.
I enjoy walks with Molly and playing Racquetball. Since retiring from TSA, I have been driving limos for Bay Limousine, which has given me opportunities to meet and converse with many interesting individuals.