Full name: Dr. Mary Laura Lutz
But please call me: Dr. Mary, or Mary
Born where and when: I was born in Columbus, Ohio & grew up in Southern California; February 11
Family facts: I am single, but would like to be married some day (to the right guy). I grew up in a rather large family with a sister and 3 brothers.
Education: B.A. from Chapman University; M.S. from Indiana University, & Ph.D. from The Ohio State University
How I became a Christian: I became a Christian when I was 9 years old, when my family was attending a small United Methodist church in Ohio.
How I ended up at First Church: I was a full-time student & working at Ohio State when I began attending First Church. I attended the church for well over a year before a position became available and I was hired to join the staff team.
The most important thing I do around here is: I coordinate the implementation of the 'Be The Church' initiative, and the adult Sunday school classes and Bible studies, as well as provide training for the lay leaders.
My vision for the future of First Church is: "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God." (Philippians 1:9-11)
One way folks can pray for me is: I would ask that people pray that God would continue to provide wisdom and discernment, and for direction in my writing projects.