From Pastor Bud:

I was baptized as an infant, but it wasn’t until much later in life that I truly recognized the significance of that sacrament or fully grasped the concept of salvation.

 

Growing up in the Roman Catholic tradition, I received my First Holy Communion at the age of seven. At that time, my focus was less on the deeper meaning of faith and more on avoiding the reprimands of the nuns. My attention shifted from accepting Christ as my personal Savior to worrying about correctly answering the catechism and maintaining proper behavior in front of the priest, nuns, and the congregation. The true significance of what was happening during those early rituals didn’t quite resonate with me yet.

 

When I was fourteen, I went through the sacrament of Confirmation, but, as any typical teenager might, I found my attention elsewhere. Other matters, things that seemed more pressing at the time, took precedence, and the act of confirming my belief in the risen Lord was overshadowed.

Yet, despite my distractions, God’s presence would find me in the most unexpected of places. I would find myself reflecting on Him while painting the side of a house, walking through the woods with my father, or even gazing up at a shooting star. These seemingly simple moments became a subtle yet powerful way for me to connect with God. Over time, His presence in my life became more undeniable, and my awareness of His grace continued to evolve through college and into the secular world, especially in my work as an airline transport pilot. 

 

The recognition of salvation for me didn’t come in a dramatic, life-altering event. It wasn’t a lightning bolt that struck me down in a moment of ecstasy. Instead, it was like a gentle rain that nourishes flowers in spring, a quiet, constant presence that gradually drew me closer to the understanding of God’s grace. It wasn’t one overwhelming experience, but rather a series of small, significant moments that helped me realize just how much God loves me.

 

After aviation I entered seminary and graduated with a degree of Master of Divinity, was ordained as minister of Word and Sacrament in the Reformed Church in America.  Following that I accepted a permanent roll as “Pastor and Teacher” of the Finderne Reformed Church on June 28, 2015. 

 

My goal in life now is simple: to live for Christ. I’ve come to see myself as one of many called to be a voice for the voiceless and to spread the message of God’s love and hope for eternal life. I want to be there for those who have little hope, to provide real-world relief where there is none, and to be a light in the darkness for those who are suffering, confused, or afraid. I hope to offer a compassionate ear to those who need someone to listen without judgment and to be a witness to the glory of God through both Word and Sacrament.

 

I am called to serve others through compassion, teaching, leadership, and guidance. I find that I draw inspiration from my mother, whose sacrificial love and ability to counsel others deeply impacted on me. My father, on the other hand, is where I find my resonance for leadership and service. He taught me to lead with purpose, humility, and integrity.

 

I’m not without my weaknesses. I’ve always struggled with organization, and I tend to take on more than I can handle at times. As a result, I’m often slow completing things I begin. However, I’m learning to be wiser in how I prioritize tasks, and I’m working on finding the courage to say “no” when I know I’m taking on too much. It’s an ongoing journey, but I’m confident that with time and discernment, this weakness can be turned into a strength.

 

Above all, I feel that I have been continually saved by the ever-present voice of our True Shepherd. This voice speaks of salvation, enduring love, and grace, and it continually falls on my heart like that gentle rain in spring. The more I learn of God’s Word and grow in my relationship with Him, the more I realize the depth of His love for me. He gave His one and only Son so that I might have eternal life, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

 

Peace be with you,

Rev. Bud Beresford