How long have you worked at Edenton Street?
I’ve been at Edenton Street for five years – three as Children’s Ministry Director, two as Director of Christian Education and Programming.

What’s your favorite thing about working here?
Working at Edenton Street was an opportunity to be obedient. It was an experience that applying for and being offered the position just didn’t make sense on paper, and yet God was so easy to see and so evident at every turn. My favorite thing about working at Edenton Street is knowing that in being here, I’ve been a part of a plan that is bigger than any plan I’d have ever made.

What’s the funniest thing that has happened to you here?
As someone who enjoys participating in a really good prank and/or practical joke, I can’t share that answer. But I guarantee it WAS funny!

What’s the most memorable children’s sermon you have ever given?
Being part of that portion of worship is such a privilege. I don’t think there is one particular “Lesson with the Children” that is most memorable. Kids are so pure, so trusting, and their faith is inspiring. It’s an honor to have an opportunity to share with them each week.

Where were you born and raised?
I’ve lived all over North Carolina throughout my life. Name a city or town and odds are that I’ve lived in it at some point. I have, however, always thought of Raleigh as home. I was born in Fayetteville because it was the closest hospital to Dunn, where my parents were residing at the time.

Where did you go to school?
I graduated from Elon College, home of the Fighting Christians. Now it is Elon University, home of the Phoenix.

How many children do you have?
John and I have two amazing boys – Jack and Andy.

Any pets?
Our sweet dog Scout (named for Scout Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird) adores my husband John and provides me with humility in making sure I know my lowly place as Chief Dog Food Dispenser.

What is most important about your work at Edenton Street? What drives you? What is your passion? 
It can be a little overwhelming, yet always exhilarating, to think that the work that we do on our team is Kingdom work. Opportunities are planned for that we pray are transformational and provide opportunities to move individuals into a deeper relationship with Christ. That is something I’m very passionate about.

What two people have most influenced you?
My mom has always been such an amazing role model for me. Her faith, strength, and grace have shaped me. And of course my husband has been an amazing influence ... such a bright, strong, gentle man.

What are your favorite books, movies or songs?
Gosh, if I record my favorites and they change again tomorrow, someone may suspect me of being flighty! But for the sake of posterity, (this IS for posterity, right?) the following would be among lots of favs. Book: Habakkuk (the Book of) and To Kill A Mockingbird. Movies: The Princess Bride (greatest movie of all time!), Roman Holiday, and Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Songs: Anything that comes out of Harry Connick’s mouth but especially his version of “The Old Rugged Cross”, “Not Alone Anymore” by The Travelling Wilburys, and the entirety of the “Brothers in Arms” album by Dire Straits.

How do you like to spend your free time?
Laughing!

If you weren’t working at Edenton Street, what would your profession be?
I pray it would be another profession that God called me to. Honestly, I don’t know.

What’s your favorite food?
I LOVE food – all food, all the time! An absolute favorite doesn’t come to mind.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?
I’m a Panera girl actually, and I order the largest possible cup. Coffee is wonderful!

What did your parents call you when you were in trouble?
ME???? Trouble???? Surely you jest! I was a PERFECT child, never giving anyone any trouble at all.

E-mail Leigh.