Meet Our New Member: John Phillips
| Meet Our New Member | Mary Splawn
Have you met John Phillips? John joined Mountain Brook Baptist on July 7, 2024. We hope you'll get to know him a little better through this latest "Meet Our New Member" blog and that you'll have the chance to connect with him one Sunday in worship.
Tell us about your family. I am single. My mom (a retired elementary and pre-k teacher) and stepdad live in Foley, Alabama. They attend First Baptist Church Foley. My dad (a former farmer and golf enthusiast) lives in Atmore, Alabama, along with my sister who works for the Poarch Boys and Girls Club, her fiancée (who works at an agrochemical distributor), my niece (who will be entering the 6th grade this fall), and my nephew (who turns 2 on July 29). My half-brother lives in New York City, New York, and he works in finance.
Where do you work? I currently work for Central Alabama AFT and am currently looking to become a band director again this fall.
What led you to Mountain Brook Baptist Church? I have had heard many wonderful things about the church from former church members and friends over the years, but decided to visit after Debra Saunders invited me as we were talking at a professional development back in January 2024.
What is your favorite Bible passage? My favorite verse in the Bible is Job 37:5: God’s voice thunders in mysterious ways. He works in ways we cannot understand. I found this verse after looking for a unique verse that spoke to me. The story of Job has always resonated with me. I’ve faced a lot of difficult times in my life and each time God has come through or given me an answer in the most unexpected way, place, or time. It’s hard to pick a favorite hymn for me as so many like "Abide with Me" have meant so much to me for various reasons, but in this season of new beginnings for me, one very poignant hymn has to be the hymn my childhood church used as a call to worship nearly every Sunday, "To God Be the Glory," because it is a celebration of all God has done, is doing, and will do in our lives.
What are some of your hobbies and interests? I love to make music as an instrumentalist or singer. I play Nintendo and board games. I enjoy being on the water/beach, exploring new places/hiking, and lifting weights. I love to travel when I can. I love to learn and read. I love to hang out with friends or spend time watching comedies, cartoons, or anime.
What is a fun fact other people may not know about you? I actually started band playing the flute my 7th grade year and didn’t start tuba until my 9th grade year.