SINCE GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL my life has been a little different from that of most college students. And while not dramatic or especially extraordinary, it has provided me with many experiences which have helped to shape, focus, and define my understanding of both my self and the world. As a child I was always very active in the church and had long considered the possibility of entering the ministry. Although supported by my congregation, the clear message sent by the world at large was that such a pursuit was a worthless endeavor. Upon graduation from high school, I enrolled at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and began a period of active duty. However, I soon realized that military life was not the type of life I truly desired to lead.

After much personal struggle, I finally began my study of theology, as well as philosophy and literature, in preparation to enter the ministry. Despite having considered entrance to the ministry since childhood, it took a lot to actually break with the social biases that had been ingrained in me and come to realize just how fundamentally significant the role of a minister is.

Now, as I begin my seminary studies, I look forward to focusing on and learning more about the ways in which the church can bring hope and new life to a world that is full of ignorance, hatred, and fear.