I grew up on a small farm in North Dakota. The youngest of three, we all became pastors. My mother prayed with us every night, read the Bible, and taught us to hide God’s Word in our hearts. It is that seed of faith that has carried me through my whole life long.
Sensing God’s call of ministry on my life, I headed off to Wheaton College to study Bible and Theology. Not yet certain of where I ought to be, I headed back home to tend the family farm. From there, I took a call as program director at our local Bible Camp. This was where I learned to worship God underneath the stars and around humble campfire. We are a tabernacle people who follow God wherever God may lead.
Doing camp ministry affirmed for me that God was calling me to a lifetime of service to Christ’s church. I nearly went to Duke, but my brother did his M.Div. there. So off to Princeton Seminary it was, and this Norwegian Lutheran from the Great Plains became a Presbyterian! I guess some things are just Providential.
The first church I served was in Pleasantville, NY. The folks there taught me a great passion for serving the least of these and creating a worship environment that was truly open to all.
My first ordained call was to First Presbyterian Church of Ashland, OH. Arriving after COVID carried with it many unique challenges. All small group activities had stopped. Over the next few years we began many new faith initiatives.
Some of my greatest joys have been participating in our college ministry. This is primarily aimed at our international students who do not have a ready made community as most local students do. It has been a joy to learn and share our cultures. Not to mention, learning how to make Chinese dumplings, Mexican tamales, and Palestinian falafels!
As a teacher, our Book of the Month club has engaged deep topics of faith from The Bible and Borders, to Augustine’s Confessions, Stanley Hauerwas, and more!
On Friday mornings, we gather for a contemplative worship where we read through the Bible in two years, pray for each other, and celebrate communion.
Monthly, our children have fun and learn Bible stories at our Parents Night Out. One of our regulars once asked after a fun, yet exhausting two hours, “Can we do this again tomorrow!” It’s a good thing when our kids don’t want to leave the church!
These are just a few of the joys of my journey so far. Can’t wait to share more with you all!
Peace,
Pastor Hylden
Pastor Hylden 