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don@firstpresjamestown.com

After a hectic morning several months ago, I was walking across the parking lot to one of the spirituality groups I work with our Behavioral Health service, praying: “God, I really need your help with my group this afternoon.” Almost immediately, the words of an old hymn came into my mind:

      When you walk with the Lord,

           In the light of his word,

       What a glory he sheds on our way.

     It wasn’t “my” group. It was God’s. I was just along for the walk. Our life and what we call ‘ministry’ is God’s. What a glorious walk when we keep that reality foremost in our mind and heart and spirit!  

       I am a native of Chester County, PA (near Philadelphia) growing up on a farm, which in that area of mushrooming urban sprawl will be maintained open space as a county park and recreation are in the Ray family name.

      My home church is Olivet Methodist in Coatesville , PA where after five years working in automobile service, I was ‘called’ to ministry. I am ordained Methodist (now United Methodist) and served six churches as pastor, student and full time before taking a sabbatical for my Clinical Pastoral residency. I have been chaplain at WCA Hospital for 25 years, now part-time there.

     Karen and I have been married 15 years and between us have four sons, all grown, one granddaughter and another grand child expected.

     I welcome the opportunity to associate with the ministry of First Presbyterian Church as we continue to learn and grow together.