I grew up a typical southern boy. I was in church as soon as I came home from the hospital and went every Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday thereafter. I always knew the right things to say and believe, but I didn't follow the things that Jesus said. I joined the Navy right after I turned 18. I had a stint where I didn't really go to church. It just seemed boring to me and there was nothing there to offer me. It was at this stage that I met my wife, Amy. I think we were both in the same place in our spiritual life, but God sure does know what He was doing when He gave her to me! Shortly before we got married, two awesome things hapened. The first thing that happened is that I got in touch with my old youth pastor, Steve Hinkle. He later would go on his own personal journey to start a church in Joliet, IL. The second thing that happened was that I read a book called The Irresistable Revolution by Shane Claiborne (a must read) and it really opened my eyes to what Christianity should be. At this point, I had another two years left in the Navy. I married Amy and spent the next two years waiting for my chance to break away from the terrible lifestyle that the Navy can put you into. I was waiting for an opportunity to show itself for me to follow God, then I realized that the opportunity was right in front of me. Steve was already following Jesus, why not follow Jesus with Steve! My heart lies with the poor and beaten down. That's my mission in Joliet... to help the hurting.
This is where I am now. I got out of the Navy on the 11th of August 2011. I moved to Crest Hill, IL. I don't know what is in store for my family, but it's bound to be exciting, stressfull, and awesome!
