Duane Doyle
Salvation Experience
Born into a Christian family, my parents and all four grandparents were born again believers in Jesus Christ as their Savior. My grandparents all came to the Lord in their 30’s. My grandmother, Geraldine Doyle attended Neighborhood Church at the original Oakland location with my Dad and his younger brother and my namesake Duane. The tragic death of Duane in 1938 brought my grandpa Doyle to faith in Jesus. The church rallied around the young Doyle family in its most difficult trial and Pastor Earl Sexour said this was the catalyst for much growth at Neighborhood Church at that time. My Grandparents Peterson started attending the new Church at 8411 MacArthur Blvd. in Oakland. Both my Grandfathers served on the board and as ushers for most of the rest of their lives. I remember alternating Sunday’s sitting with them in their usher seats at the back of the center section, Doyle on the left side and Peterson on the right and continuing this practice at the new Church in Castro Valley. My grandparents were great examples to me of living Christian values. I observed my grandparent’s devotion to reading God’s word every day.
I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior on November 28th, 1963 at Neighborhood Church in Oakland. Millie Story was the leader of “children’s Church”, held in the Crimson Chapel and she prayed with me that day along with several other kids to accept Jesus as Lord. Growing up in a Christian home and accepting the Lord at age 7 does not make for a dramatic testimony but I am very blessed. I have always wondered if pride would have been an obstacle at an older age, but my Lord spared me that challenge. I played saxophone in the Church Orchestra every Sunday night from 7th grade through college, attended camp every summer and did advanced Bible studies mid-week taught by “Big Ed” Harris. In college, Paul Travis challenged me and several of my friends to consider going into the ministry. I had spent much of my young life working as a mechanic at Peterson Tractor. I loved the heavy machinery and was focusing on a career at Peterson. The challenge to go into ministry really bothered me because of the conflict between my dreams and the possibility the Lord wanted me to go into ministry. I finally got to the point where I said, “Lord if you want me in the ministry, I will do it”. The Lord’s answer came crystal clear. He said, ‘I just wanted you to be willing to do my will, you don’t need to go into ministry”. What a huge burden was lifted from my soul by being willing to obey my Lord Jesus!
The example of daily Bible reading from my Grandparents is a practice I cherish every day of my life. Some day’s God’s word speaks to me more than others, but I know that being consistent in reading which I equate to “Listening” and prayer which I equate to “conversing” are the most essential components of my life.
I have been on NC/3Crosses board for over 30 years and appreciate the responsibility the Lord has entrusted. I would however consider leading a small group of men my greatest joy in service to my Lord. Our group comes from all walks of life and several started as seekers but now have Jesus as their savior too.
I am blessed with a wonderful, talented and patiently supporting wife of 44 years. Two believing children and their wonderful spouses and six super grandkids. I could go on and on about all of God’s blessings, but the greatest is the blessed assurance of our salvation and Christ’s coming victory overall.
If you are a senior and would like to submit your testimony, we invite you to contact us for details on how you can participate. We would love to include your story!
