What's your new ICS title and position? Middle School Bible Teacher
Where are you from? If you're not originally from UT, how did you end up here? I’m from New Hampshire originally, but moved to Utah 4 years ago to help with a church revitalization, after spending time pastoring in Indiana and Colorado.
Where do you go to Church? We love sharing out where our community goes to church in the valley. It's always a neat connecting point. Gospel Hope Church in Riverton. We love the valley (especially the SW corner) and are thankful for what God is doing in our community and our church family.
Tell us about your family! My wife Colleen is a pretty amazing wife & mom, definitely my better half. We've been married 17 years and have a 5 year old son Timothy. He's a creative, full of life and emotion, red-head. We enjoy serving God together, hiking, camping, and visiting state & national parks.
What is something most people don't know about you? OR What are you most passionate about? I'm passionate about taking on challenges and helping people & organizations grow. Most people assume I love reading theology books, but I actually really enjoy books on psychology, business mindset & strategy. A few of my favorites are “Good to Great” (Jim Cramer), “One Minute Manager” (Ken Blanchard), and “Blink” (Malcolm Gladwell). I'm currently reading “Effortless” (Greg McKeown). I also relax by playing & watching all kinds of sports, including some obscure ones like cricket & competitive darts. Currently, I'm playing quite a bit of golf on courses all over the valley and loving that.
What are you looking forward to most in your new role at ICS? Middle school is one of my favorite ages of life. Life is changing so much, and there are so many good and important questions middle schoolers are asking. I love how the Bible simply and honestly answers those questions. And I'm looking forward to wrestling through and laughing with them as we explore God's Word.
What else would you like the ICS community to know about you? The team of people (admin, ops, & faculty) God has brought together at ICS is truly remarkable. They love God, love the students, and serve with all their hearts, well beyond what is normal. It's a privilege and honor to teach alongside this incredible team.
Welcome back to ICS, Mr. Parker! We are excited for you to be a part of the lion community once again!