Hello, Asbury Students & Parents!
My name is Austin Lerner-Gay, and I am incredibly excited to be joining Asbury this June.
I am originally from Pennsylvania but moved to Lakeland, Florida, to pursue my BA in Practical Ministries at Southeastern University, where I learned the basics of ministry and experienced just how hot the summer sun can be. It was at SEU that I met my wife, Asia, in our Biblical Greek class. No, I don’t remember any Greek because I was distracted and it was completely worth it. This May will mark our second anniversary. 🙂
Specifically, over the last three years, I have been working on an MA in Youth Ministry at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary in partnership with the Center for Youth Ministry Training. Upon completing this degree in May, I will be pursuing an Mdiv. at Candler School of Theology at Emory University this fall through their Hybrid Program, as I continue my ordination process in the United Methodist Church.
In my free time, I enjoy playing just about any sport or game that offers a great balance of competitiveness and fun. I grew up playing soccer, basketball, baseball, and golf, but I truly love any game of any kind because I enjoy a challenge and spending time with people. Additionally, I enjoy reading fiction books near a bright window and going on walks with Asia. We have two cats, Dart and Phoenix, who are the perfect mixture of dog and cat.
I am already beginning to pray for you (Asbury students and families), the church as a whole, and the B’ham community. I am eager to join you this summer and walk alongside each of you in our collective faith journey. I look forward to witnessing how God will empower each of us through the Holy Spirit to embody the way of Jesus with all that we are, reaching out to all those around us. I’ll see you soon Asbury!
In Christ,
Austin Lerner-Gay
Rev. Michael Bowman is the Pastor of Discipleship. He oversees adult, family, youth, and children’s ministries. He has a heart for spiritual formation, and loves helping people practice the way of Jesus. You can find Michael reading or making Sara (his wife) a cup of coffee.
Laura Provence is the Middle School Director, finishing her Master of Arts in Youth Ministry through Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Laura loves to read, write, cycle, cook, and binge watch new TV shows.