When the significance of teaching was revealed to Pastor Bowens, he enrolled in Gwinnett Hall Bible College. He earned both an Associate and Bachelor degree in Biblical Education. Being a pastor allowed him to view his obligations to preach to the lost and teach believers. He has continued preaching so that more souls may be introduced to Jesus Christ. Teaching was necessary to assist believers in becoming more sensitive to the many roles of the Holy Spirit, more aware of God’s Will and presence and more grateful for Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. He desires to assist members in recognizing the gifts that God has given them, utilizing these gifts to contribute to the perfecting of the saints, the work of the ministry and the edifying of the body of Christ.

Pastor Bowens has emphasized the church’s mission: “Exalt the Savior, Evangelize the Sinner and Equip the Saints. He has instructed classes in discipleship, leadership and stewardship. After many years of leading Friendship, he learned that he was assigned to the congregation and the congregation was assigned to him both according to God’s heart. Friendship’s goal is to be a purpose-driven church that ministers through evangelism: “Informing the Sinner of the Friend Who Laid Down His Life and Reminding the Saint of the Friend That Loves at All Times.” He thanks God for the many instances of growth that he has witnessed at Friendship and prays for continued growth in wisdom, understanding and love.

Pastor Bowens has been afforded many gifts from God, but he has also been able to include his talents in ministry. He sang in the “Sounds of Friendship” recording and played the role of the younger brother in the musical production of “The Prodigal Son.” He continues to rejoice in the blessing of service and finds encouragement in Galatians 2:20: I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.