 Pastor J
So, where to begin…
Well, I’m
originally from Michigan. I grew up outside of a small town between Grand
Rapids and Lansing. I attended Central Michigan University for my undergrad and
first Master’s degree (both in history). I discerned my call to the ministry
while working on my history master’s. So, instead of looking for a job in a
museum or continuing on to a doctorial program in history, I found myself
applying to Duke Divinity School. Next thing I knew I was living in North
Carolina studying theology. Upon graduating Duke, I received an appointment
here at Mt. Zion.
Well, that’s the
basic background, but who am I?
I do have a few
interests. Besides my vocation as a pastor, I love history. I enjoy reenacting
– Civil War reenacting in particular, but I’ve always wanted to do some
Revolutionary War reenacting as well. I used to play on a vintage base ball
(two words in the 19th
century) team. We’d play by the rules of 1861… yes, that would be without
gloves and in the uniforms of the time. It’s kind of like a Civil War
reenactment, but without guns and a battle. Instead there would be bats and a
ball game.
I love playing the
saxophone and the flute. I also enjoy listening to jazz and classical music.
If I can go to live performances, the better!
I also love the
outdoors. Camping is one of my favorite activities. Fishing is another of my
favorite activities. Just being on the water can be a great day for me as
well. Of course, hiking in the mountains can be just as enjoyable.
 My wife Cathy and I
are hockey fans. We spent a fair amount of time watching the Carolina
Hurricanes play during the 2005/2006 season. And what a season that was! It’s
not every year that your team wins the Stanley Cup! Of course being from
Michigan, I will not give up my allegiance to the Detroit Red Wings. But that’s
OK, because the ‘Canes and the Wings are in different conferences (well, at
least that’s the way I rationalize it).
What about the
future?
I have a love for
ministry outside of the parish setting. I can see myself eventually becoming a
hospital, prison, police department, or fire department chaplain. I’m really
fulfilled when I’m with a group of people who are gathered together for some
reason other than God only to eventually discover that nonetheless, God is with
us. In my experience as a chaplain candidate for the U.S. Navy as well as an
intern chaplain at Central Prison in Raleigh, chaplains get to help people
realize God is with them in the most difficult situations. This is one of the
coolest aspects of ministry in my opinion.
So, that’s a
little bit about me. But you know, this brief introduction isn’t really
complete. You see, I’d like to get to know you as well. So, the next time you
see me, feel free to share a bit about yourself with me. I like meeting new
people and getting to know people I’ve already met better.
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