Why I'm here.

I used to think there were enough Christian voices out there. I even chose to exit the online world for quite some time. I doubted the need to add my voice to an already crowded pile. But after a while I realized that there's a bit of a void of people talking through the nuances in scripture about some of the hot-button issues of life- especially in regards to women. It was easy enough to ignore when the world was... let's say... a bit less chaotic.

But when the pandemic hit, so many were taken off guard. Those topics became front and center. Women's issues, which had long been swept under the carpet, became front and center. Faith leaders weren't prepared for how to handle the influx of difficult conversations. No one was quite prepared for how drastically our lives would shift. Many turned from their faith. Many became estranged from friends and loved ones. Even more ran into polarized corners of ideologies where it felt "safer." But few came out unscathed. That's why I'm here.

I'm here because simply put, I care about you. I care about your struggles. I care about the nuances of your situation. And I want to be a safe listening ear, and an advocate for those who need spiritual healing and growth. I want you to know that there's hope on the other end of what you are going through.

Over the years I've been lucky enough to witness and walk with some incredible women through their stories of resiliency, healing and hope. I've learned how each story is so nuanced, and that the details really do matter. As a pastor, I feel passionate that it's time for the church and it's leaders to have thoughtful and grown up conversations about topics that matter, and not just fall into the rut of repeating of overly simplistic phrases and ideas. I believe that it's time for the church to be the solution bringers, not the stance screamers.

I believe it's time for all of us to use our God-given gifts and stories to bring hope and positive change to the world... to make it a more kind, just and loving place to be. I hope my blog posts encourage you, and if you find yourself in need of someone to talk to I'd be honored to be there for you.

So, cheers to a new chapter and a hopeful future!

XOXO- Natalie