Our new Minister, the Rev. Samuel (Sam) Grottenberg, joined us August 2023, coming to us from Calgary, AB.

Sam is a self-described “Bible nerd” whose heart for ministry is centred around the interpretation of biblical texts for life in today’s world and shepherding people in discipleship to Jesus. He seeks to be used by the Lord in helping people to integrate the Christian tradition with intellectual rigour and robust spiritual formation, while also equipping them to live out God’s mission in their communities.

Sam was born in Calgary and grew up in both Calgary and Kamloops. His academic training has been undertaken in Alberta, British Columbia, and the United Kingdom; he holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies (New Testament) from Regent College, a Diploma in Denominational Studies (United Church) from the Vancouver School of Theology, and a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Development from Rocky Mountain (Bible) College. Alongside of his ministry here at North Lonsdale, Sam will continue part-time research as he works towards his PhD in Divinity/New Testament through the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.

Although raised in The United Church of Canada, Sam has also pastored in two other denominations. He was ordained a Minister of Word, Sacrament, and Pastoral Care in June 2019 by the United Church's Pacific Mountain Regional Council and comes to us with over 15 years of experience in a variety of pastoral roles in different congregations.

Together with his wife, Stephanie, Sam has three energetic young children. Outside of being a massive geek who loves reading theology books, he can often be found brewing speciality coffee, writing, cycling, or playing a round of golf.