What do you do at Rooftop?
I lead the single adult ministry at Rooftop. Singles’ activities are designed to build Christ-centered community primarily among adults who happen to be single by chance, change, or choice. The scope and precise focus of singles’ events will vary—expect anything from progressive dinners to theology discussions—but they are always set in an atmosphere of acceptance and openness where singles can meet people with similar experiences, interests, hopes, and hurts to establish friendships that are nurtured in a Christian context.
How did you become a follower of Christ?
My mother raised me in the Baptist church, where I accepted Christ as my Savior and was baptized when I was 12 years old. When I got to college, my faith was tested as I met for the first time many people with different ideas and believes as I. It sent me on a spiritual journey where I was looking for God's truth on my own terms. I found that Christ was the only way and now share a daily, intimate relationship with Him.
How did you get plugged in at Rooftop?
I attended Rooftop for about four months and then stopped coming because I wasn't feeling connected. At God's urging, I returned two years later to try again. I discovered that connecting with a church required me to put myself out there despite my fears of rejection and humiliation. I joined a Bible study group and went to any Rooftop event designed for fellowship. After a while, people learned my name and took a genuine interest in my life.
Goal(s) for your ministry:
The goal of the single adult ministry is to provide followers of Christ with an environment and opportunities where they can grow in their walks as well as reach out to the spiritual seeker who may be just learning about God. Rooftop’s singles ministry is not meant to be an exclusive “church within a church,” but provides singles with activities that are also integrated with the at-large Rooftop community, either in planning or participation.
What do you see God doing at Rooftop that most excites you?
I'm excited to see Rooftop continue to grow and possibly plant similar churches in other areas of the metro region where people need to learn about Christ in a casual and fun environment.
Favorite Rooftop memory:
I'll never forget one of the first Sundays that I visited Rooftop. After being away from church for years, I was overwhelmed by the loving environment where I could feel God's presence.
I started to cry and a stranger moved to sit next to me. This man, Nathan Young, comforted and offered to pray with me. I'll never forget his kindness.
Family stats:
As my ministry suggests, I'm single. I live in the City of St. Louis with my two cats, Marley and Asa.
Where might you be found when not at Rooftop?
I'm a reporter for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch newspaper, where I write about the criminal and civil courts in St. Louis. I spend a great deal of time traveling, entertaining and decorating wedding cakes. I also enjoy watching sports and spending time with my husband, J.R.
Book (other than the Bible) most likely to be found on your nightstand / CD in your CD player?
I'm now reading the biography of Franklin Pierce in my effort to read a book on every American president in order. I love music from the Newsboys and Jack Johnson.
If you could have lunch with 2 people in history (besides Jesus), who would they be and what would you talk about?
I would dine with George Washington and Thomas Jefferson to discuss what they think of America today as it compared to what they envisioned for this democracy.
If you could be one place in the world right now (other than a Rooftop service), where would it be and why?
I would be sipping wine on one of the coastal islands of Greece. The place seems peaceful and serene.