This month, James Pope begins as executive editor for Forward in Christ magazine. He brings a variety of experiences to this ministry, including serving parishes in Wisconsin and Florida; teaching history, theology, and staff ministry courses at Martin Luther College, New Ulm, Minn.; serving as the “Light for our path” columnist for FIC from 2014–2019; and answering theological questions submitted to the WELS website from 2014–2021. Pope also is serving a six-month, part-time retirement call to St. Mark, Leesburg, Fla.

Here are a few more tidbits to help you get to know him better:

Favorite Bible verse and why: Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” It’s so comforting to know that we enjoy God’s powerful love 24/7.

Favorite part about being a pastor: It’s the people. It is a joy to serve others, and it’s encouraging to see Christian faith in action in their lives.

Article you always read first in FIC: It used to be “Light for our path.” Seriously, I start at the beginning.

Hobbies: Golf, playing the piano, reading.

Thoughts about retired life: It is pretty exciting! I had no idea how I would be serving in ministry and where I would be living. I should have retired years ago!

Author: Forward in Christ
Volume: 110, Number 1
Issue: January 2023