Not the Final Word

The Solid Rock Church

In 2000, Pastor Lawrence and Darlene Bishop have pastored Solid Rock Church since 1978. The stories of how they began in ministry are quite interesting. Lawrence Bishop has a powerful testimony of how God called a prosperous Christian businessman with a heart to serve to pastor a thriving New Testament church. Pastor Bishop began in the horse business at the age of twelve and has built one of the most successful Quarter Horse ranches in the nation. The LB Ranch is home to many famous stallions and other championship horses. Horsemen come from across the United States and all over the world to buy quality horses from the LB Ranch.

In 1975, Lawrence reached a desperate point in his life. While building a successful horse business and traveling as a highly sought-after auctioneer, he found himself putting his family and God behind his business ventures. He knew that his priorities had to change. One night, after much prodding by his wife, he attended a local church service. During that meeting, he felt as if the preacher was speaking directly to him and even suspected that Darlene had spoken to the preacher concerning his situation. Lawrence recommitted his life to Christ that night and a short time later surrendered to the call of ministry. Lawrence preaches in churches around the world and promotes the gospel through Bluegrass music. He has recorded several cd’s including Traveling Preaching Man, White Horse Rider, and Three Dollar Baby.

Darlene made her commitment to Christ at fourteen years of age and felt the call to preach shortly thereafter. After marrying Lawrence at the age of seventeen, she began to work with him in the horse business. As they became more and more successful, Darlene still had a burning desire to preach the gospel, often getting up in the middle of the night to rehearse the messages God had given her. This led her to answer the call to preach and now she ministers not only along side Lawrence at Solid Rock Church, but also as founder of Darlene Bishop Ministries. Darlene is the author of such works as Your Life Follows Your Words.