In January of 1977, Brother Samuel C. Watkins Sr. joined the United States Army. He was positioned as an enlisted specialist. There he learned discipline and self-control, while adjusting to an environment that posed great opposition. Shortly after his conversion in November of 1979, God called Brother Watkins into the ministry to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. During the time of his enlistment, he became the pastor’s assistant, in one of the Foreign Missions located right outside the base in West Germany. This work enhanced his opportunity to meet and minister to people of many races and ethnic backgrounds.

 

In January 1981, Brother Watkins returned to his home in Rome, Georgia where he began to work with local church assemblies, and different pastors in the community. Brother Watkins became greatly concerned about the tremendous barriers that existed amongst the local assemblies he encountered. Each church assembly professed to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, yet because of certain bi-laws, denominational creeds, and organizational doctrines, fellowship amongst these assemblies could not be obtained. God’s Holy word does not speak of any particular church denomination or organization in which he will return. Christ is coming back for His bride who will consist of born-again believers that are established on His word. 

 

In 1983, Brother Watkins took a job at Floyd Medical Center. It was there that he met his lovely wife-to-be, Licensed Practical Nurse-Diane Dillard. Their mutual love for Christ and each other drew them closer together. On August 27, 1983, Brother Watkins and Sister Dillard were united in holy matrimony. Together they worked in the ministry in which God gave them. 

Their family grew quickly.  They were blessed with three wonderful children: Anthony, Natalie, and Sam Jr.