Since arriving in Philadelphia two weeks ago, I have heard incredible testimonies of how God has used Tenth Presbyterian Church in so many lives. It is a joy for me to be here and join in the important work of this church.
I grew up in a small town in Michigan, the daughter and granddaughter of pastors. From childhood, the Lord impressed on me the brevity of time. Scriptural admonitions like that of 1 Peter 1:13 to be “sober-minded” and to “prepare” became a lens for my life and decision-making. Scripture was key. The more I was confronted by the brokenness of the world, the clearer it was to me how desperately people need the hope and transforming power of the gospel. My simple and fundamental desire was to be useful to the church. The Lord opened doors for biblical and theological training at Moody Bible Institute (’15) followed by Reformed Theological Seminary (expected ’23) where my love for God’s Word only increased.
My personal vision for ministry comes from Hebrews 10:23-25:
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
God has given me a burning desire for people to know and rest in the faithfulness of our Lord. I long for all to experience the abundant joy of the fellowship of his Church and to thirst after the goodness of his Word. “As the Day draws near,” we are called to be gatherers and disciple-makers, engaging in the life of the church, and challenging one another to live lives shaped by a growing love for and knowledge of God and his Word.
I am privileged and excited to be here where God’s Word is so faithfully proclaimed. The high view of Scripture held by this church is essential and the work and ministry assigned by God for this generation is critical. “We will not hide them from their children but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done” (Psalm 78:4). I pray the Lord continues to guide, strengthen, and unify this congregation as we seek to serve him and glorify his matchless name in Philadelphia and the world.