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Gil Gatch graduated with a bachelor’s degree from SES in 2015. Prior to his time as a student, Gil served as a pastor at a non-denominational church plant in Charlotte. At the time, he had many questions that seemed to be unappreciated by those around him. As Gil listened to sermons, he would note contradictions that began to bother him. Though he was not searching for SES, he was unexpectedly given a book by Norm Geisler at a worship conference. The book began to scratch the surface on all of his building questions. From there, Gil made the decision to enroll at the seminary.
Today, Gil works as an attorney and is an elected member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from district 94. He serves roughly 41,000 people and has been recently elected to continue in service for an additional two years. Gil is married to his wife of fourteen years and has an almost one year old daughter. To this day, he is utilizing the knowledge gained from his time at SES in professional and personal capacities.
On a daily basis, Gil finds himself answering countless questions from colleagues, prosecutors, and other lawyers. He is equipped to respond with confidence because his time at SES taught him how to categorize where information is coming from and where it can go. Whether in interviews on national television or in conference room settings, Gil is prepared to respond with compassion and clarity.
Gil shares that as a communicator, it is essential to know where he is going and how to land the plane. “Statements should be convincing, compelling, and competent”, said Gil. He went on to share that as a person learns to think objectively about life, they will uncover any presuppositions that may have. In asking questions, Gil believes that individuals are almost always guaranteed to reveal their personal biases. By discerning what one’s biases may be, the listening communicator will be better equipped to respond appropriately.
SES is a place that helps individuals think well. Though at times, a person enrolls in the seminary because of a deep passion for apologetics, most find themselves taking courses because of pressing questions that lead them to seek answers. This was Gil’s story, and he believes that it is true for many others.
In the roles that Gil holds as a politician and lawyer, there are many high-pressure conversations and debates. Gil shared about his recent visit to Barnwell County where he met on behalf of three criminals. He had the opportunity to speak with the incarcerated individuals personally and to their lawyers. He is frequently hurled questions in moments such as these, and each time, he puts fundamentals from his SES education into motion. Knowing how to properly think has equipped Gil to properly respond.
We are grateful for the service that Mr. Gil Gatch provides for those he represents and those he inspires on a daily basis. Our prayer is that his story has encouraged you to ask questions, seek answers, and communicate clearly.
