Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Boyer.
Hi Cindy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I graduated with a degree in occupational therapy from the University of Kansas. I have worked with children with special needs and their families for many years. One of the comments I have heard from parents often is that it is hard to go to church when you have a child with differences.
I was a pastor’s wife for many years. In that role I enjoyed doing “non churchy” activities within the church that drew people in and helped build relationships. It has always been important to me that all people feel welcome. I was encouraged to go to seminary when I was much younger but didn’t because I didn’t feel like I needed more education to build relationships that drew people in.
During a challenging period of life I had to re-examine my faith. I ended up going to seminary. thinking I would never be a pastor. I have now been the pastor of Victory Hills Baptist Church for 6 years.
I appreciate being able to start activity groups that help people get to know each other, hear each others stories while growing closer to God and each other. I have been involved in instrumental music and see music groups as one way to build bridges, hearing all voices rather than focusing on the individual. We have planted vegetable and flower gardens and fruit trees. It is amazing how the gardens have drawn people in sharing their stories and helping people experience a place of peace and quiet. I am thankful that God has helped me find ways to share God’s love for people in our community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road but it has been a good road. The struggles that I have had have helped me understand the challenges others have in a deeper way. One of the more recent bumps in the road took place five years ago. I was in a car accident which caused a traumatic brain injury. That experience has helped us become a more diverse group of people as I have had to share leadership with others. It helped me remind people to try to listen to the inner stories of others rather than quickly place judgement on outward behavior.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am in the process of retiring from my role as a pediatric occupational therapist and have provided home based services for infants and toddlers. I enjoy working in the inner city and have learned a lot from the families who have come from other countries. I have been known for my ability to work with families who have are going through rough times.
I have been a pastor for 6 years and an associate pastor prior to that for 3 years.
I probably don’t fit the traditional mold for either of those professions. I enjoy program development, trying to work through tough situations bringing people together, and learning from others along the way.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
We would appreciate having help in several ways. We have established an afterschool program for children on Wednesdays when schools are dismissed early. We could use more adults to help mentor the children and youth teaching special classes such as music, sewing, arts, sports, etc.
I have been given wind instruments and beed to find a teacher. We are also looking for a vocal music teacher to start a class.
We could use help with the gardens during the growing season.
The majority of people we serve have limited income. We could use help with grant writing and fund raising.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Victoryhillsbaptchurch.com
- Facebook: Victory Hills Baptist Church
