AT A GLANCE...

I grew up in and around the church. As a teenager, I was drawn to religious interests. I was active in my high school youth group and philosophy club, and spent many summers in the Christian camping scene. My college years were typified by religious questioning and soul-searching, which culminated in a sense of call to pastoral ministry. I was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) in 2000. For the past 25 years I have served as a clergy person in diverse settings, always striving to offer the best spiritual care I can and to grow in my own profession of faith. I am married to the former Dao Pham, of San Jose, California. We have three daughters, Lily, Arwen, and Melody. I enjoy swimming, reading, biking, and playing guitar.

TOOLS IN THE TOOLBOX

I believe that learning and gaining new skills are essential to being an effective pastor. As a life-long learner, I have spent many hours in the classroom. I have degrees in Comparative Religion, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Divinity, and Spirituality. I am a member of several professional organizations, including the Presbytery of Central Florida, a community of the elders and clergy of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the American Counseling Association, and the Pastoral Leadership Renewal Group, sponsored by Samaritan Counseling and Consulting.  

I have served in a variety of settings and among diverse people. I currently minister as pastor to Lighthouse Christ Presbyterian Church, in Ormond Beach, FL.  Previously, I pastored Faith United Presbyterian Church, in Washington, PA.  Before that, I served as a Chaplain in the United States Navy. While stationed in Europe, I led multi-day retreats for personnel living overseas that focused on spirituality, marital resiliency, and personal wellness. On a ship, I provided care to sailors on the high seas, far from home and family. In a hospital, I worked with physicians, psychologists, and other medical professionals to care for families and patients.

Before military life, I was an associate pastor, who focused on youth ministry and families. Before that I was a volunteer in various ministries, such as InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. And before that...well, you get it. God has had something for me to do at every stage of life. I am sure the same is true for you.

So, that is a little about me.

AND NOW...

I would welcome getting to know you and, if there is any way that my own journey can help you in yours, I will be glad to share in your next steps!