Why did you decide to enter the ministry?
I grew up in a lively parish church, so church has always felt like a second home for me. I was an altar server, a bell ringer and a member of the parish youth group.
I first felt a calling to ordained ministry in my final year at university in Leeds. At uni I did a lot of volunteering at local homeless drop-in centres and I also taught English to refugees. I knew I was drawn to do community work and social action. I also really enjoyed talking to people about faith.
I had this nagging feeling that God was calling me, so I started talking with the university chaplain at Leeds. At my dad’s ordination party, my parish priest also suggested that I got ordained too. So that was a big hint!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Bedfordshire, in a quiet market town called Leighton Buzzard. There are a couple of great pubs and a marvellous coffee shop that roasts its own beans. It’s a London commuter town, so I often used to visit London to explore Camden and Euston with my friends as a teenager.
Is there anything you’re proud of achieving as a curate?
At the moment we are doing first communion preparation with the year 3s and year 4s. It is a wonderful opportunity to get to know the children better and for them to share their understanding of faith, as we learn from one another. I enjoy spending time with them and I look forward to their first communion services in April and May.
Do you have a favourite memory as a member of the parish?
Yes, I will never forget conducting my first wedding; the couple were lovely and they were pleased that it was my first time doing one! I really enjoyed it! Weddings and funerals are my favourite parts of parish ministry.
Do you have any interesting facts about yourself?
I am half American, as my dad is from Enid, Oklahoma. I love America, especially the Midwest and California. I am an American citizen and I used to live in Berkeley, California. Perhaps one day, I might move back there.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I also like going for long bike rides into East London, rural Essex and Epping Forest. Music is one of my favourite things, especially listening to the radio. My favourite bands are Talking Heads, Bowie and Iggy Pop. I am looking forward to seeing live music again when lockdown ends.
Why should someone want to get in contact with you?
Please contact me if you are interested in learning more about our parish community. Or contact me if you have a question about faith.