The Catoctin Church of Christ Welcomes New Minister

By Jeff Yocum

After an extensive nationwide search, the Catoctin Church of Christ welcomes D.J. Kessinger as its new minister. D.J. steps into the role for the retiring Richard Long. Richard will continue as a teacher and one of the congregation’s five elders.

Commenting on his retirement, Richard explained, “Christians in the Lord’s church never truly retire; they just move from one position of responsibility to another.” And so, after nearly 30 years as the Catoctin congregation’s minister, Richard stepped down from the pulpit. He has every intention of remaining fully engaged in the life and function of the church.

D.J. comes to the congregation from Purcellville, Virginia, where he was the minister for six years. He is a graduate of the West Virginia School of Preaching. He and his wife, Brooke, are the proud parents of their first child, four-month-old Archer.

D.J. expressed his vision for his work in his new congregation by saying, “This congregation is already so loving and warm, I’d like to maintain that spirit, as well as help it to spread even further.”

Regarding the town of Thurmont, D.J. drew comparisons to his own hometown, “I love Thurmont. It’s about the same size as my hometown of St Mary’s, West Virginia, so it feels familiar. It’s a gorgeous little town surrounded by nature.”

The congregation is excited for their new minister. D.J.’s infant son, Archer, is a big hit with everyone. Folks want to hold him so much that his little feet may never touch the ground for a couple of years. It’s wonderful having a young family come in, ready to grow with the congregation.