A lifelong Christian with a passion for spreading the word of Jesus Christ, Lufkin resident Eric Garland holds a master of theological studies from Golden Gate Theological Seminary in San Francisco, California, and a bachelor of science in Bible and philosophy from Summit University in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania. He has also earned diplomas in both theology and youth/leadership ministry from the Word of Life Bible Institute in Pottersville, New York. In addition to ministering as a family pastor for Texas religious institutions in the cities of Lufkin, Huffman and Conroe, Eric Garland has coordinated programs for the Word of Life Island Youth Camp, provided dormitory council at Summit University, and served as assistant director of student life and discipleship at Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio.

Since November of 2017, Mr. Garland has served as an operator with Combatt Oilfield Solutions in Midland, Texas. When he isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his family, going out to eat at unique restaurants and getting outside to hike and explore the wilderness.