A few years ago, a friend gave me a rock inscribed with the words, “But God …..” She said I had a way of listening to people’s stories and concerns and reminding them that God may have a different perspective on their situation. I believe this represents at least part of my pastoral calling, to come alongside people and point their attention to God, his lavish love for them, his direction for their lives, his hope and strength. John 10:2-3 has been prayed over me and has a similar theme: “The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” I feel called to be one who watches for opportunities to open the gate for God so that others can listen to his voice and follow him. I am especially passionate about opening the gate for people to hear God speak through the Bible. I believe the Bible gives us the foundation of our relationship with God. He speaks in other ways too, but I personally have a passion to for people to experience the beauty of the Bible’s truth. I am passionate about healthy marriages and families, unity in the body of Christ, and authentic relationships. I want people to know God and enjoy a growing relationship with Him. My role at New Crossing as associate pastor and ministry coordinator allows me walk out the passions and giftings that God has given to me:
- Preaching a few times a year
- Counseling couples (with Craig)
- Counseling women,
- Teaching and leading various groups
- Supporting the ministry leaders of the church and helping them to keep pursuing God for direction and strategies, under the direction of the elders.
I’m not all about being serious all the time! I love the outdoors and experience God’s beauty in creation when I get to ride my bike, paddle a canoe, go hiking or dig in my garden. I grew up in England and met and married Craig in California. We have a son, daughter, son-in-law, and one granddaughter. I also work as a hospice chaplain and bereavement coordinator.