BACKGROUND:
Sam Hannah is the assistant pastor of Open Door Baptist Church. Born in Mississippi, Sam lived in various locations in the South before settling in Illinois for his teen years. At the age of 18, Sam moved once again, this time to California where he was stationed by the U.S. Navy. While in California, he became involved in a country music band as a lead-singer. A Christian since the age of 8, Sam was busy during this season of his life attending church, performing at night with his band, and fulfilling his duties in the armed forces.

TESTIMONY:
When he began to experience some health problems, Sam made an appointment to see a local physician. It turned out this doctor was a member of the same church Sam attended. When the diagnosis of a stomach ulcer was made, this Christian doctor counseled Sam to give up his fast paced, double life and follow Christ alone. On the way out the door, Sam prayed, "Lord, that's it. I'm with You all the way." Soon after, Sam moved to Virginia to attend a bible institute. While there, he met his wife, Pam. He also began to use his musical talent to glorify the Lord. He sang and played the guitar in small, Virginia towns and his friend, Tom Hauser, preached.

EDUCATION:
Sam acquired a diploma from Thomas Road Bible Institute (now Liberty Bible Institute) in Lynchburg, VA.

THE CHURCH:
Sam and Pam moved to Rochester, New York in 1977 to team with their good friends, Tom and Char Hauser organizing worship and bible study for the community. What began as a home-based bible study soon grew beyond the walls of their small apartment and eventually into the building where the church currently meets on Scottsville-Chili Road.

OUTREACH:
Pastor Sam concentrates his time serving the senior members of Open Door Baptist Church and encouraging new members and visitors. He works closely with those serving as deacons and leads worship songs on Sunday mornings.

PERSONAL:
Sam lives in Chili, New York with his wife Pam and the youngest 5 of their 10 children.