I was born in Warren and lived in Howland until I was 11, at which point my family and I moved to the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas. I loved growing up in Texas but always considered Ohio my home, so don't be surprised when you hear hints of a Texas accent mixed with a hybrid usage of "Y'all" and "You Guys."
My wife Rene and I have been married for almost 19 years and we have 4 children, Zachary, JoAnne, Emerson, and London. I have a Bachelor's Degree in English from the University of Texas at Arlington, and I was a high school English teacher in Dallas for 14 years before we moved to Ohio 4 years ago.
The move back to OHio afforded me the opportunity to refocus my professional life on my lifelong passion, Jesus, studying scripture, and being a servant of God to all. I am currently a volunteer mentor for Crossroads Prison Ministry, Letters For The Lord Prison Ministry, and I am a pastoral care volunteer at my current church and at Lutheran Metropolitan Men's Shelter in Cleveland. Last Spring, I received my Master's Degree in Bibllical and Theological Studies from Belhaven Univeristy, and I am currently in the discernment process to become ordained.
I am an avid reader and writer. I love sports, especially the Buckeyes and the Browns. I am big on personal health and fitness, and 5 days a week, no matter the weather, you will find me out on the streets running.
I am a huge proponent of the importance of a church community. To be in communion with like minded sisters and brothers of Christ has so many positive benefits, most importantly helping build each other in faith and in life, as well as, worshiping together and praying with and for each other through the highlights of life and the lows. We are never stronger than when we are united.
If there's anything else you would like to know about me do not hesitate to ask. I love getting to know new people and giving them the opportunity to get to know me.