My Clergy Calling and American Marriage Ministries
My journey to becoming an ordained minister has been neither conventional nor straightforward; instead, it has evolved from a deep-seated desire to help others and make a positive impact in the world around me. From an early age, I discovered joy in being part of my church community, engaging in various activities that nurtured my spiritual growth and instilled in me a commitment to serve.
I have fond memories of my time at the First United Methodist Church in Glen Gardner, New Jersey, and the First United Methodist Church of Christ in Easton, Pennsylvania. Here, I eagerly participated in Sunday School and sought every opportunity to contribute to the community. As a baptized and confirmed member, I felt a tremendous sense of belonging and purpose. My early involvement included distributing programs, serving as an acolyte, and volunteering in our "Feed the Hungry" program. Each of these experiences allowed me to foster connections, honor my faith, and build the foundation for my future in ministry. Additionally, I dedicated time to the church nursery, where I cherished my interactions with the little ones, finding immense joy in nurturing their curiosity and wonder.
Being part of our church youth group further solidified my connection to my faith and my community. One of the highlights of my youth was attending weekly Sunday School sessions and participating in our Youth Group activities, where we discussed faith and community service, and collaborated on meaningful projects. I was privileged to attend the Global Young People's Convocation (GYPC) for two consecutive years with Pastor David Goss. This transformative experience deepened my understanding of faith development, community service, and leadership training—all vital components that continue to shape my ministry today.
However, life took an unexpected turn when our church sadly shut down, leaving me feeling adrift during a vital transition as I entered adulthood at 20 years old. The loss of this cherished community left a significant void in my life, and during this time of uncertainty, I struggled without the support and fellowship I had come to rely on. In my quest for spiritual fulfillment, I eventually found a new home at the United Church of Christ, New Creation. Despite being in college and unable to engage as actively as I would have liked, I welcomed my new church family and sought to contribute in any way I could.
Both personal growth and significant challenges marked this period of my life. I entered into a relationship filled with hope, but it ultimately became devastating for all involved. The man I was engaged to and wholeheartedly loved became gravely ill, and his condition deteriorated and became violent to the point where he required more care than I could provide. His family faced the heart-wrenching decision to place him in a nursing care facility, and during this painful time, my need for the support of my church community intensified.
Pastor Paul Cronin played a crucial role during this challenging period. His kindness, compassionate listening, and unwavering support provided me with the motivation to persevere, even when I felt overwhelmed by the challenges I faced. The guidance I received during this time reaffirmed my commitment to serving others, inspiring me to continue seeking ways to help those in need.
Drawing from my experiences, I joined the Connecting Faith and Justice program, where I participated in Leadership Development. In this role, I had the fulfilling opportunity to serve as a "Pastor's Helper," delivering communion to the elderly in nursing homes—a role that profoundly deepened my desire to provide care and connection to those in vulnerable situations.
Despite my passion for ministry, life’s demands shifted, and my work schedule changed as my college studies intensified.
Consequently, I found myself unable to complete my journey toward ordination. However, life had other plans for me. I was presented with the opportunity to attend Grand Canyon University, a Christian-based institution that offered a wealth of biblical courses in addition to my studies. Immersing myself in these courses, I found pride in excelling academically while nurturing my spiritual growth.
During this chapter of my life, I entered into a beautiful and fulfilling relationship with my now-husband, Chris. This new beginning required me to move away from my home, family, and friends to Sunbury, PA, about 30 minutes from where Chris grew up. Although I was in a new environment, I felt an undeniable pull toward my spiritual calling and continued to seek ways to contribute to my new community. This is when I founded Positive Peer Mentoring, a wellness center dedicated to helping individuals focus on healing their mental and emotional health through therapy, counseling, and mentoring.
One day, out of the blue, I found myself pondering whether I still had credits available for the classes I had previously completed. To my astonishment, the very next day, I received an email indicating that I still had credits available to use. I viewed this as a sign from the universe—a clear indication that it was time to finish my ordination journey and formally join the clergy.
With renewed enthusiasm and purpose, I completed the necessary requirements and am proud to say that I am now an ordained minister through American Marriage Ministries. My journey has been filled with twists and turns, but it has ultimately brought me to a place where I can celebrate and support the love stories of others, ensuring that every couple feels valued and included on their special day.
It is a privilege and honor to fulfill this calling, and I am eager to continue serving my community and beyond, helping individuals and couples navigate their unique journeys with compassion, understanding, and joy.
Why I Chose
American Marriage Ministries
I chose to become ordained through American Marriage Ministries (AMM) because, despite my upbringing in various Christian churches, including both Methodist and non-denominational congregations, I felt a profound calling to serve individuals and couples from all walks of life, regardless of their faith. I firmly believe that everyone deserves to have a supportive representative by their side when they celebrate their love, and I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all.
American Marriage Ministries is a constitutional church deeply rooted in the foundational documents of our country, as well as the philosophies of our Founding Fathers. The organization draws from a diverse array of teachings, including Judeo-Christian traditions, Eastern philosophies, and the works of Enlightenment thinkers. While these perspectives are not treated as scripture, they offer valuable insights into the principles of respect, dignity, and compassion in human relationships.
In today's world, AMM fulfills a spiritual need that many traditional institutions often overlook: providing inclusive access to marriage for all individuals, irrespective of their religion, sexuality, or any other defining traits. In an era when traditional churches may not be as accessible or welcoming, many couples are actively seeking someone they trust to bless their union, and AMM supports this critical decision by empowering officiants to honor diverse love stories.
The Beliefs Held By AMM Resonate Deeply With My Values As
A Wedding Officiant:
1. All Individuals, Regardless of Race, Gender, or Sexual Orientation, Have the Inherent Right to Marry
At the heart of love and marriage lies a fundamental belief in equality and respect for all individuals. The right to marry should never be dictated by race, gender, or sexual orientation. This belief is rooted in the understanding that love is a universal experience that transcends societal boundaries and prejudices. Everyone deserves the opportunity to form committed partnerships and build families based on love and mutual respect.
By affirming this right, we acknowledge the diverse tapestry of humanity and celebrate the unique stories and values each individual brings to a relationship. Love knows no boundaries, and it is essential to create an environment where all couples, regardless of their backgrounds, can express their love publicly and legally. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that everyone has the chance to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes with marriage, fostering a more compassionate and unified society.
2. Every Couple Has the Right to Choose the Individual Who Will Solemnize Their Marriage
The choice of who will officiate a couple's wedding is a profoundly personal and significant decision. Every couple deserves the freedom to select an officiant who resonates with their values, beliefs, and vision for their ceremony. This choice ensures that the wedding reflects their unique journey, traditions, and the essence of their love story. Whether they desire a formal ceremony rooted in religious traditions or a more secular celebration that emphasizes personal connections, the ability to choose their officiant is paramount to creating a meaningful experience.
This right to choose also acknowledges the importance of personal connections and the roles that family, friends, or mentors can play in a couple's life. An officiant who understands the couple's relationship, shares their values, and supports their love can significantly enhance the wedding experience. By empowering couples to select someone they trust and feel comfortable with, we honor their narratives and ensure that their celebrations are authentic and heartfelt.
3. All People Have the Right to Solemnize Marriages
The ability to solemnize marriages is a profound responsibility that acknowledges the significance of love and commitment in our lives. This principle recognizes that anyone, regardless of their background or training, should have the opportunity to officiate weddings. When individuals are empowered to solemnize marriages, it opens the door to diverse interpretations of love and commitment, reflecting the wide variety of relationships in our society.
This inclusivity highlights the significance of personal connections in the bonds we form. Often, the person who knows a couple best is not a traditional officiant but a trusted friend, family member, or community leader who understands their unique relationship dynamics. Allowing these individuals to officiate weddings fosters intimacy and authenticity within the ceremony, making it a profoundly personal celebration for the couple and their loved ones.
Recognizing that all people have the right to solemnize marriages also strengthens the sense of community and interconnectedness. It affirms that everyone has a role in building and supporting love in its many forms, promoting a culture of acceptance, understanding, and shared joy.
Through my ordination with American Marriage Ministries, I am committed to ensuring that every couple feels seen, heard, and celebrated in their love. It is an honor to participate in such joyous occasions and to support couples in their commitment to one another, reinforcing the belief that love knows no boundaries.