Getting to know each other will be an ongoing process, but my hope is this quick bio will be a helpful start. I grew up in Dunwoody, Georgia, where my family attended Dunwoody UMC. That church, especially my experience in Youth Fellowship, brought me to Christ and helped me discern my call to ministry. Being grounded in a community of love and faith has helped shape who I am and the way I see the world.
My wife, Emma, and I met at our alma mater, Sewanee: The University of the South. I played varsity tennis at Sewanee and majored in Religion. Emma and I even got married there. Sewanee is a holy place for our family.
I went straight from college to seminary, and straight from seminary to my first pastoral appointment at Alpharetta First UMC outside of Atlanta in 2014. Emma and I got married that year, and two years later chose to move North Carolina, Emma’s home state.
I thank God for leading us here! We had our daughter, Edie, in June 2019. She loves to explore so don’t be surprised if you see us wondering around Main Street with her! As time goes on, you’ll learn more about me. I love sports (trying to get better at golf!). I cook. I enjoy book club/studies—Bible or
otherwise—and would love to read something with you and talk about it. Guilty pleasures include Netflix reruns and fast casual restaurants (burritos anyone?).
I can’t wait to share my heart and my story more thoroughly. I’m even more excited to hear from you! We will grow closer in time, but for now please know I believe God has called my family to Main Street. We’re excited and ready. We’re prepared to listen and grow with you. God has amazing things
in store as we begin our journey together.
Thanks be to God.
—Pastor Phil
