ABOUT ME
As a clergyperson I am an ordained elder (i.e., presbyter, priest, pastor) in the United Methodist Church, now retired as of 07/01/2020. My ministry of preaching began in 1978 as a certified lay speaker. I continued my education, following 3 years of course work at Penn State University in 1972-1975, completing my BA in both Psychology and Religion in 1985 (with honors) at Lebanon Valley College (Annville, PA). I then began my seminary studies at Duke University Divinity School (Durham NC), transferring after my second year to The Theological School, Drew University (Madison NJ) where I graduated
magna cum laude with a MDiv degree in 1990. All the while serving churches as a Licensed Local Student Pastor, my first appointment beginning in April 1982. Ordained as a Deacon in 1989 and an Elder in 1991, I have served congregations in rural, small town, and suburban communities. My ministry has always focused on personal and community spiritual growth and wellness, ecumenical relations, the art of preaching, liturgical and sacramental theology and praxis, systems theory and conflict management, and ministry with persons of disability. I am a member of the Psi Chi academic honors fraternity. I am married to a wonderful woman, Mary, who is an ordained pastor in The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) since 1981, and has served congregations in that denomination, the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA), and the United Church of Christ through their covenant relation program. She also has provided pulpit supply in the United Methodist Church. We and our four fur-kids—Dollie Jayne, Bichon and Maggie Lynne, Shih Tzu—[sadly, Mollie Mae crossed the rainbow bridge in October 2020, and Webster Andrew follow in April 2022] enjoy life being involved in various spiritual and community endeavors. I am an advocate for people with disabilities and focus my current study on God and Disability, along with, a Theology From A Context Of Disability. I am also an advocate for equal rights, feminism, womanism,
Black Lives Matter, LGBTQAI+ inclusion. As a pacifist, I have always tried to live following in the pathway of Jesus, seeking just peace and economic reform. In a world of billionaires there is no excuse for poverty. In community as it is understood according to the biblical mandate, there must be equal access to all resources and benefits of life. My hobbies include Model Railroading, Reading, Writing, Photography and Music. I share this blog with the hope that something here will inspire the liturgy and worship that you share with your community or in your own journey.
