Growing up as a son of missionary parents, Otis and his family served in Costa Rica and Chili. He has been associated with the ministry all his life. Both his father and grandfather are pastors and his father-in-law is an editor of the Adventist Review.

Otis completed his studies at the Andrews Theological Seminary in December 2005. He and his wife, Deidre, enjoy traveling, reading and music.

Otis wants to see Sligo be a church that emphasizes spiritual growth of individuals and a church family mobilized to make a positive impact on the local Takoma Park community.