When and how did you first come to faith in Jesus?
When I was 12, I lost my 16-year-old brother to suicide. In my grief, I turned away from God - especially the idea of a God who was good - and chased fulfillment anywhere else I could find it. Then, in High School, a friend invited me to a Young Life summer camp. There, the hope of the Gospel broke through the pain and the walls I had built. I decided to give Jesus a chance, and when I came home, the journey kept going. He began to transform me from the inside out, planting seeds of calling early on, and slowly turning my pain into a mosaic He’s still redeeming today.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a two-time national unicycle champion, a proud fourth-generation North Bender, and I love to cook!
What’s your go-to way to rest and recharge?
Either a long walk or bike ride with my wife and toddler - or disappearing into the woods by a river where my phone can’t find me.
Favorite treat or snack?
I’ve got a serious sweet tooth: gooey chocolate chip cookies with cold milk, warm peach crisp with vanilla bean ice cream, and crème brûlée.
A book (besides the Bible) you think everyone should read:
Love Does by Bob Goff – A joyful reminder that whimsy and love belong together in God’s Kingdom.
Jesus: A Theography by Leonard Sweet & Frank Viola – The first book that made Jesus come alive for me on every page of Scripture.
Chasing Francis: A Pilgrim’s Tale by Ian Morgan Cron – A story I return to often, blending the mystery of St. Francis with honest reflections on leadership, faith, and doubt.