If you know anything about David Smith, you will know that he loves books: old books, new books, audio books. He has a constant list of things he is reading or planning to read. He loves nothing more than diving into new ideas and dissecting a good argument. In fact, it is not unusual to end a conversation with David either handing over a book or with him receiving one. It has been a joy to watch as that list of books read, and books to read, has grown over the past four years. They have testified to his strong sense of ministry and call.
David began his ministry at BMPC almost four years ago as an intern from Princeton Theological Seminary. For two years, he dutifully made the drive from Princeton to Bryn Mawr at least twice a week. He brought his background in music to the student band, his gifts for preaching to youth worship, his insight to classes for all ages, and his deep care for students into everything he did. As he was preparing to graduate from seminary, our congregation was looking for an interim minister. David joined our staff to help shepherd our youth during the call process, and we were able to support him in his first ordained call.
It seems as though every week new books joined David in his office. Books about adolescent development, small group discussion guides, and even a few young adult novels started mixing in with his collections on theology, psychology and ecumenism. Ideas moved past the page and became lived practices during the two years David has served as our Interim Associate Pastor for Youth & Their Families. He has faithfully led an extensive discernment process alongside the “normal” youth programs.
Even if you are not a part of the youth ministry, you have probably met David in an adult education class, in worship on Sunday, during a pastoral visit, or even in the Education Building helping the youngest members of our congregation.
Perhaps what I have come to appreciate the most about David, is the deep love and absolute enthusiasm he has for the church, whether in its local form or its global fellowship. It is not surprising that as David completes his service here, he will begin a graduate program at the University of Bonn in Germany, to study ecumenism.
We hope you will join us this Sunday following 10:00 a.m. worship in the Ministries Center Court to celebrate David’s ministry and to offer our prayers and blessings as he begins this next chapter.
