Anthony Handal

It's a curious thing, being called to be pastor for a church. There are expectations and demands from those who employ you, those you minister alongside of, and those in need. Whoever you interact with, they bring with them a clear definition of what it means to be a pastor. Those definitions are sculpted by life experiences, what they've read and heard, and what they believe the role should be. To some, pastors are holy men, reverends. To others, they are liars and swindlers. For some, they are consequential. And still others, they are background noise, only a nuisance when interrupting the consciousness. We all experience a visceral experience when we're introduced to someone bearing the title, Pastor.

 

While the description someone imposes can be flattering, it can also be a burden, a teetering pedestal on which one must remain dynamically balanced or filled with vitriol, often for good reason. Nonetheless, part of the responsibility of this role is accommodating the experiences of all we interact with. So, while I'm sure you have your own stories and assumptions about my role, I think it would be helpful for you to also know who Anthony Handal, the person is.

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• I love Jesus. The historical figure who proclaimed a new way is a fascinating example of servant leadership, self-sacrifice, other's centeredness, and thought-filled engagement with the world. He demonstrated that our beliefs matter and should, even being willing to sacrifice himself for what the non-violence he believed in. And if this is as far as you go, it is sufficient to change your entire outlook, to see the world a different way.
  The risen figure of Jesus fascinates me all the more. He moves our consciousness from practical to spiritual. What we believe makes a difference, not only for those around us, but in how we conceptualize ourselves. It's because of this that our legacy matters, what we teach matters, how we treat others matters, and who we are, has eternal consequences.​​

• I love my wife Corina, my Son Orion, and my daughter Aurora. They are the best of me. Seeing them and getting to know them, is to see all the parts of me that I want to grow into, to become. 

• I love people. While I am not the most gregarious and dynamic if individuals, I meaningfully enjoy one on one conversations, deep dives into someone's world, and finding common ground.

• This is my life's work. What it has looked like before now, has not always been Pastor. I've managed summer camps (including Mills Spring Ranch some years ago), been a teacher, and the dean in a residence hall. The common thread through it all, is getting to know people, meeting their needs, and sharing what Jesus has done and meant to me. I hope you and I get to meet and experience the same.​