Help Me Plant a Seed

I am incredibly excited to begin my Doctor of Ministry journey at Christian Theological Seminary!

My goal is bigger than earning another degree. I want to become a better pastor and leader and use my doctoral research to help churches become sacred and protective spaces for teenagers, particularly LGBTQIA+ youth and young people struggling with mental health.

Research consistently tells us that belonging, affirming adults, and safe communities matter tremendously in the lives of LGBTQIA+ young people. I believe the Church can—and should—be one of those places.

I want to help build churches where a struggling teenager hears:

You are beloved. You belong. Your life matters. We will stand beside you.

My tuition for the program is $12,999, plus books, materials, and travel. My first $1,200 tuition payment is due at the end of August.

Asking for myself doesn't come naturally to me, but I believe deeply that God has called me to this work-and I trust God to provide for what God has called me to do.

So I'm inviting you to plant a seed with me.

Scripture says, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” (1 Corinthians 3:6)

I don't know where these seeds will grow or whose life this work may someday touch. We simply plant faithfully and trust God with the harvest.

Whether you can give $10, $25, $100, more, or simply pray for this journey, I am incredibly grateful for whatever part you can play.

I'm excited about what God is doing, humbled to be part of it, and deeply thankful to have you alongside me. Thank you for your prayerful consideration of the support of my ministry. To God be the glory!

Let's plant some seeds. 🌱

-Pastor Steph