A New Chapter: Joining St Mary’s as Youth Minister in Training
It is a great honour and privilege to join the St Mary’s staff team as Youth Minister in training. As another South African on the team, I bring with me a deep love of sports, the outdoors, and, of course, a good braai (BBQ). St Mary’s has been a part of my life since 2009, and it’s exciting to now have the opportunity to serve in a new capacity.
For those who don’t know me, I’m married to Ester, and together we have two amazing children: Caden, who will be starting Year 6 this September, and Sia, who is with our Lord and Saviour in paradise. My family has been blessed by the community at St Mary’s, and I’m thrilled to give back by stepping into this new role.
My journey to this point has been somewhat unconventional. I grew up in a Christian home, but it wasn’t until I was 19 that I truly found my faith in Christ. Academically, I hold a degree in Information Communication Technology, and I spent several years working as a Statistical Analyst in the pharmaceutical industry. Despite this career path, my passion for youth has always been close to my heart. I had the joy of supporting a youth group under Andy Kearns from 2010 to 2013, which planted the seeds for this new calling.
I am deeply blessed and encouraged to have this opportunity to serve our Father God and our church family. We live in a world that is far more complex than when I was a teenager, and in this broken world, there is only one place where we can find refuge, comfort, and strength. My hope and prayer is that it is not only our children that will draw closer to God, but that we, as families, serve God and grow together spiritually.
I often remind Caden that it’s wonderful to make plans and have dreams, but it’s crucial to live each day to the fullest—not with a focus on ourselves, but with our eyes fixed on God. The only way to do this is by grace and holding onto God’s promises and prayers. As Jesus tells us in John 15:5,
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing”
Looking forward, I have enrolled at Cornhill and will be completing foundation courses over the next two years. I am also very excited to be working closely with Adam Curtis, who is like a Jedi master, and I am his youngling, padawan. Adam will be supporting, guiding, and teaching me in the ways of the Spirit, and I am eager to learn and grow under his mentorship.
Thank you for welcoming me into this role. I look forward to serving and growing with you all in Christ.