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Associate Pastor for Adult Education
Von talks about . . .
BACKGROUND
After completing my bachelor’s degree in physics, I served a Florida congregation as director of youth ministries and then entered seminary. I earned a master of divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary and a master of arts degree from the Presbyterian School of Christian Education. Prior to being called to Myers Park Presbyterian in 1999, I served as pastor of a small church and as an associate pastor in two other churches in Virginia and Florida. I also have served on the administrative staff at PSCE and with the Presbytery of the James.
FAITH
I am the son of an independent missionary minister. My constant questioning throughout childhood led me to my home with the Presbyterians. Finding ways for my mind to understand what my heart embraces keeps me on the journey – a journey that has led me deeper and deeper into what it means to be a follower of Jesus the Christ.
THE CHURCH
Faith is both personal and communal. If the church helps people grow in their love of God, of neighbor, and of self, then it is doing what it is supposed to do. It is vital to grow in faith within a community that nurtures and challenges you.
MINISTRY
My focus as a Christian disciple is helping people know and understand God’s amazing grace and unconditional love. As a pastor I am called to bear witness to that love in word and deed. My specialized ministry gives me the privilege of learning and growing alongside you.
ADULTS
Helping adults mature in their faith as followers of Jesus the Christ is my passion. I feel a special affinity for adults who are members of the “church alumni association” – those for whom the traditional formulations of faith have lost their meaning. I enjoy helping folks find an expression of faith adequate for the 21st century.
MYERS PARK PRESBYTERIAN
I cannot imagine a better match between my passions in ministry and the needs of this congregation. The last third of my 30+ years in ministry have been rewarding and challenging and I look forward to the exciting and challenging years to come.
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