Get to Know the Rev. Dr. J. Thomas Kort
In early August, we were thrilled to announce the hiring of the Rev. Dr. J. Thomas Kort as DPC’s Transitional Pastor. Now we feel the excitement for the start of Tom’s ministry which is finally upon us.
Tom’s 42-year career has taught him countless lessons, one of which he shared during the interview process with the dedicated search team: “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.” The words offer a glimpse into his personality and professional outlook, while also serving as a reminder to himself as he begins his new role at DPC. “In order to be understood, you must first understand,” Tom explains.
His immediate goal is to familiarize himself with DPC and the employees and congregation members who make this place special. The ultimate aim, he adds, is to take that knowledge and provide a lush “landscape” for the next Senior Pastor/Head of Staff. This “getting-to-know-you” phase, he assures, will develop naturally and will in no way hinder the efforts of DPC’s thriving and evolving ministries. “We are not pushing the pause button on anything.”
“Transition is not easy,” says Tom. “It comes with a myriad of feelings and experiences. I am mindful that I am not the next Senior Pastor, but I am called to prepare the way.” The way forward, he says, is through five key areas of ministry: Worship, Program Planning, Pastoral Care, Leadership Development, and Communication.
Tom, who lives in Yardley, is eager to begin easing any sense of anxiety that naturally occurs in times of transition through active listening, caring, and relationship building.
And it all begins today, September 1 – as Tom officially begins his journey with this body of faith.