The turning point in my spiritual journey occurred at a Christian summer camp when I was twelve. I remember looking at the stars on the last night of camp and having the sense that God was much bigger than I thought he was and that he was saying, You can know me if you want to. Not knowing what I was getting myself into, I prayed that I did want to know him and felt like maybe a door was opening in my life.
Shortly after, I began attending youth group at a local church because I’d heard it was a good time and I wanted to learn more about the God I experienced at camp. Over the next six years, I was discipled by loving, patient, and joyful adult volunteers who gave their time week in and week out. I made lifelong friendships with boys who later stood at my wedding. I began understanding and using my spiritual gifts, and experienced a call to vocational ministry.
From there, I attended Wheaton College and eventually Church of the Resurrection, where I was introduced to a sacramental worldview and appreciation for the ancient Church.
My work in youth ministry is informed by six summers in camp ministry, two years of teaching, and graduate studies at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. My hope for our students is to partner with parents by providing something of what I experienced in my young adult life: meaningful relationships with mentors and peers, opportunities to discover and grow in spiritual gifts, and a place to learn from Scripture about the One who loves us and gave himself for us.
Phone: 630-653-3888 extension 7137
