Former pop star Frankie Valens becomes pastor of small church in western Kansas
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Pop star of the 60s and 70s, Frankie Valens, has a new gig — as a preacher at a small church in western Kansas.
The Garden City Telegram reports (http://bit.ly/Wm4Q7y ) that the singer, who had hits with "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes," and "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," became the pastor of First Christian Church in Syracuse about a month ago.
Valens' father pastored the same church in 1978 and 1979.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}After his recording career ended, Valens and his wife, Phyllis, toured the country performing gospel songs and skits at various functions.
The 70-year-old Valens says he's never preached from a pulpit but that he says he's been testifying about his faith for years, so he is ready for the new challenge.