Growing up, my parents were not Christians. My mother struggled with alcoholism and abuse, and my father, though hardworking, was largely absent, preoccupied with providing for our family. 

When I was twelve, my mother passed away. In the wake of that tragedy, I often stayed with a family friend who hosted a church in her basement. It was there that I first encountered the Gospel and found stability. 

Not long after, my father passed away as well. Feeling alone, I cried to God, “If you are real, show yourself.” I heard him answer, “Though you’ve lost your earthly father, you’ve gained a heavenly one.”

At sixteen, I gave my life to Jesus. 

Looking back, I believe I am the byproduct of many prayers, particularly from my two uncles. One is a faithful elder in a Presbyterian church. The other, God rest his soul, was a passionate Charismatic preacher. Though I did not fully grasp their intercession growing up, I see how it has shaped my life. 

Still, sanctification was both a moment of surrender and a transformation process. My early Christian walk was shaky at best. I read more philosophy than Scripture and often wrestled with doubt. 

Through a campus ministry called Ratio Christi, I encountered folks who showed me how deep thinking and faith coexist. They introduced me to thinkers such as William Lane Craig, and I fell in love with authors such as Alvin Plantinga and Cornelius Van Til. These years gave me the intellectual permission to believe, simply and confidently, in the truth of the Gospel. 

While in college, I joined the USMC-Reserves. I got to share my faith there and felt a call to ministry. After returning home from boot camp, I was invited to lead a youth group and felt a stronger call into vocational ministry. I also worked briefly with the Coalition for Christian Outreach, a college ministry. There I was, surrounded by mentors and peers steeped in Reformed theology. Men and women whose clarity and compassion shaped my head and heart. 

One constant through it all has been my wife, Hannah. Her faithfulness and integrity have inspired me. She recognized my calling to teach and serve long before I had seen it in myself. Now, we are raising our two sons, Samuel and Josiah. They will always be my first ministry. 

Throughout my journey, I have sensed God’s quiet and persistent call to serve with my heart and mind. My calling has led me to continue my work with the Christian and Missionary Alliance, a movement rooted in Word and Spirit, and prepare through theological training at Westminster Theological Seminary. 

C&MA gives me the home and honor to serve missionally as a pastor and hone my real-life skills, while WTS equips me to face the unique challenges of a confused world. This next season is about preparing for a lifetime of ministry and helping others like I was helped.

If you feel led, I welcome you to partner with me as I pursue this next season of ministry.