Hello friends! Welcome to my blog all about this crazy, awesome journey I will be embarking on called ‘The World Race’!
I’m Emily, a twenty-three year old with an independent will, a whimsical soul, and a heart that loves Jesus. My free-bird spirit loves to wander, drift, and explore the vastness and delicacy seen in different countries, peoples, and landscapes.
I am currently rooted in Ligonier, PA, but I was born and raised on the west-side of Cleveland, Ohio. I grew- up in a loud, fun-loving, and goofy family, with my mom & dad, two younger sisters, and an older sister who has a three-year old son, Tucker.
My family (left) & my nephew, Tucker (right).
I went to college at Malone University where I majored in Visual Arts & Psychology. I am passionate about how the visual arts can be used as a vehicle for healing, processing, and cathartic-release in therapy. I have all intentions of pursuing a future in Art Therapy & Counseling.
I spent two years in college as an RA- where I discovered a passion and ability for discipling college-aged women. I believe in the authentic growth that happens in life-on-life, relational ministry.
Also, I love summer camp! I spent my summers in college working as a counselor at Ligonier Camp & Conference Center- a Christian, adventure education based summer camp. After graduating from college in May 2014, I came to work year-round at Ligonier Camp. In the summers, I’m on leadership staff as the Women’s Director- where I supervise and mentor the college-aged women’s staff. In the off-season, I am an Intern- working, living, and learning more about what it means to work for a non-profit, Christian camp. I have treasured my year here: living in community, doing ministry, and serving people.
In my life, I have come to know the grace and love of Jesus Christ and His redeeming work done on the cross. I deeply desire others to come to know the freedom and love found in a relationship with Christ. I’m excited about women gaining freedom from the lies they believe about themselves and claiming the truth that their identity is Christ’s Beloved.
Lastly, a few more fun facts about me…
I am an adventure-addict at heart: backpacking, hiking, high ropes, rock climbing, kayaking, and hammocking. Adventure and the outdoors are a way we can join in the art of celebration with God. Nothing gives my soul more peace and rest than my hammock strung between two trees, a Henri Nouwen book, and a warm cup of ethically-sourced, home-roasted coffee in between my hands.
I am a creator. Painting, photography, & ceramics are what make my spirit come alive. I believe God has given me the ability to be a creator so I can more deeply connect with The Creator.
I am wired to travel. One of the reason I have felt called to the World Race is because I care about this world we live in. My favorite thing to experiencing when traveling is the bigness of God and how small it makes me feel, yet in the midst of that how much He loves us.
I don’t know exactly what the road ahead looks like, but I trust God to show up in big and small ways daily as I pursue this year of ministry serving and learning about His world and His people.
Thanks for listening & coming along for the ride…
Love,
Emily
