Black Sheep Baptist?

*This is MY definition and understanding of being an outsider in my faith community while also representing that same faith to those outside of the "Baptist fold." I'm aware that my definition is in no way exhaustive. The term black sheep has been used over the centuries as a label of praise and disenfranchisement. I want to respect those with a different definition of this term. While I hope to offer a positive perception of a black sheep in my specific context, I sympathize with those for whom this word is beyond redemption.  

For me, a black sheep is someone on a particular group's fringe, and this is where I often find myself as a Baptist minister and person of faith.

Justin Who?

The question of ‘Who are you?’ always feels so daunting. A few shorts words would never be able to describe who I am or what my purpose in this world might possibly be. However, an introduction I suppose is in order.

Until recently, I spent my entire life in the South of these United States, particularly in North Carolina where I was born and raised. The land and region played a huge part in my development in ways I am now just discovering. The Old North State is the source of my nature, while my family shaped the nurturing aspects of my upbringing. 

I have received theological training/degrees from both Campbell University and Wake Forest School of Divinity. I currently attend the McAfee School of Theology at Mercer University, where I’m pursuing my Doctor of Ministry. I served congregations in NC for several years until June 2019, when my family and I headed to New England. Currently, I am the new Senior Pastor of Second Baptist Church, Suffield, CT.

What else might I disclose? I frequent many ecumenical “camps,” but I understand my denominational home being with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. I’m an advocate for women in ministry and an ally for our brothers and sisters in the LGBTQIA+ community as I see all people being made in the imago Dei (image of God). I listen, work, and stumble in hopes of being an activist for needed conversations pertaining to racial repentance and reconciliation. I’ve devoured every book by renegade Baptist preacher Will D. Campbell, and while some people have a patron saint, I light-heartedly claim a patron sinner; Anthony Bourdain.

I'm married to a wonderful spouse, Lauren. I have two adorable daughters. I love to cook and bake and do so every day.