Welcome to Pastor Talk! I’m Tim Powers-Reed, an ordained pastor in the United Church of Christ, currently serving as the pastor of Trinity UCC in Belleville, Illinois. Over the past five years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of walking alongside a vibrant and diverse congregation, watching our community grow in faith, membership, and connection. My journey in ministry has been a lifelong calling, one that I approach with a heart for inclusion, justice, and the transformative power of love.
In addition to my work at Trinity UCC, I also serve as the director of Rainbow Camp, a ministry dedicated to celebrating diversity and fostering a welcoming environment for all—children, adults, and families alike. I believe that our differences make us stronger and that the full spectrum of life’s experiences should be embraced, celebrated, and cherished.
As someone who lives with neurodivergence and repetitive OCD, I bring a unique perspective to the table, both in my personal life and in my ministry. I’m passionate about helping others understand that our mental and emotional health is just as important as our spiritual well-being, and that faith can be a powerful anchor in times of struggle. It’s a message I try to live out every day and share through this platform.
Pastor Talk is my space to reflect on the intersections of faith, mental health, social justice, and the everyday challenges we all face. I believe that honest, open conversation can spark transformation in our lives and communities. Whether I’m writing about the complexities of ministry, the challenges of navigating the world as a pastor, or the joys of finding God in unexpected places, my hope is to inspire thought, dialogue, and action.
Outside of ministry, my life is full of love and joy with my husband, Shea, and our dog, Ivy. They keep me grounded, and together we navigate the ups and downs of life with humor, resilience, and a whole lot of grace.
Thank you for visiting Pastor Talk. I’m grateful to share this journey with you, and I hope you find something here that speaks to your heart, sparks your curiosity, or helps you on your own path of faith and discovery. Let’s keep the conversation going!
