About me

My wife, Lee Ann, and I moved to Castle Rock with our two daughters in 1996. Before that, we lived in the state of Washington. Lee Ann and I have known each other since junior high and started dating in our senior year of high school in California. We also have two grandsons (ages 5 and 2) who are, in fact, perfect.

I have been at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Castle Rock since 1996 and have served as its senior pastor.

A growing community

New Hope was chartered in 1989 and the sanctuary was opened in 1990. At that time, it was pretty much by itself in the Meadows. It's a little more crowded now!

The impact of being a pastor

I get bored if there aren't new challenges. Suffice to say, I have never been bored here! Beyond the complexities of an ever-changing congregation, what has impacted me the most are the people and their ever-changing lives. I know pastors are supposed to say stuff like that, but in this case, it's also true. Pastors get the privilege of standing with folks in their most holy moments: births, death, weddings, celebrations and tragedies. Beyond the milestone events, we get to also be part of and experience the everyday sacredness of people's lives. There is a lot of gratitude that comes with that, and it may be the biggest impact of all.

Celebrating our church's 30th anniversary

The founding members showed enormous courage to start New Hope. They made the decision to close their churches in Sedalia and Louviers, sell their land and start a new church together in Castle Rock. That almost never happens, and it took considerable vision, faith and sacrifice. The dream was to build a church that would be ready for a community that was yet to arrive. It worked! To be celebrating its 30th anniversary is a validation of that vision, courage and sacrifice.

Our goals moving forward

The DNA of New Hope has always been “service.” Right from the beginning this was a congregation that existed to serve others in Christ's name and make a difference in its community. What that looks like going forward depends on the needs of the community. Our mission statement says we want to be a place where people, “Find a Home, Build a Life, and Make a Difference.” That never gets old but the way it is accomplished is ever new.  We are here today because of what people did 30 years ago. Our goal is to recognize and respond to what we see God doing today so that people 30 years from now will benefit even more.

If you have suggestions for My Name Is…, contact Jessica Gibbs at jgibbs@coloradocommunitymedia.com.