10/09/2022
October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Sunday, October 9 specifically is considered to be “Pastor Appreciation Day.”
Though his flock is still small, Pastor Kyle deserves recognition as much as any today. He is truly extraordinary.
One of the best qualities Kyle has is his authenticity. Who he is inside and outside of church does not contradict. God knows us well, so why pretend on Sundays? This is an attitude that Kyle has had since he was young and has carried over into his vision for an “unconventional” church: a tavern that is welcoming to all, including secular patrons. Kyle understands that Jesus would have preferred bar stools to church pews, he would seek out those “poor, unfortunate souls” to sit with rather than those who claim to be perfect. Kyle is going to help many people heal their relationship with God and just as importantly, to help to break down stereotypes that cripple the public perception of Christianity.
I have known Kyle since we were small children going to church together. We became friends as teens and even then he pushed me to be more active in my faith journey and introduced me to new experiences that would prove pivotal to my experience, both as a Christian and as a person. Unfortunately there were some who were not so understanding or welcoming toward Kyle, it was hard to witness as someone who cared about him. They just didn’t understand. Knowing him is a blessing- he’s fun, down to Earth, relatable, and HILARIOUS. His enthusiasm for the Bible is infectious and his knowledge of its history is very expansive; even so he has such an understanding and respect for other faiths. The most impressive thing of all though is his acceptance and forgiveness for those who hurt him. All of these traits make him uniquely qualified to reach a generation that has been turned off by traditional church or scared away from organized religion.
I feel so fortunate to be part of Water2Wine. When we were kids and Kyle hosted Coffee Houses at our church for local youth I loved being part of it and getting to assist in making it happen. Now this vision for a tavern that was sparked back then is coming to life and again I get to be here for the ride. I have found my place and I am so grateful. I was lucky to meet Kyle, blessed to be able to walk beside him today and most importantly to consider him a friend.
Thank you, Pastor Kyle for sacrificing so much of yourself and your time for this little church plant that will become very fruitful in time!
We welcome all to please join us at Source Harvard Square Sundays at 8:45, come have a mimosa and toast to Pastor Kyle!
-Sarah
