As of July 1, 2012, I’ll be the associate pastor at St. John United Methodist Church in Anchorage, Alaska. It’s been a great two years at Anchor Park and East Anchorage. I’ve learned a lot about ministry in the local church. It’s one thing to wonder and dream from the safety of a seminary classroom. It’s quite another to dive into the messiness of a faith community. It’s easy to think you can change the world until you actually start trying. I’ve got a LONG way to go in ministry. But I’m thankful for these two churches for giving me a good start.
I’m excited to serve at St. John. I spent a couple years at this church during high school and felt my call to ministry while attending there. The St. John community is active in mission and loves to worship together. We found a rental house within walking distance of the church and I’m excited to get to know people in our neighborhood.
The other big news is that I got recommended for ordination in the Pacific Northwest Conference next month. I had an interview in Seattle last week and after an hour of tough questions and affirming feedback, they decided I’m ready to become a United Methodist pastor. I started the candidacy process 11 years ago and there were many difficult moments. But overall, it’s been a very positive process. It’s helped me grow in my faith and practical skills. The accountability and feedback was helpful.
We’re slowing packing up our house and my office. We’ll make the big move across town in mid-June. Here’s to celebrating ministry in one place and preparing for what God has ahead. Blessings!
p.s. Isabella is doing great. She’s 4.5 months old and starting to roll over. She’s sleeping through the night and seems to enjoy day care. Love this child to pieces.
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