I was born December 7th, 1983 and grew up in Charlottesville, Virginia until the age of 18. My Father is a physician and soccer coach, my Mother is a teacher and a phenomenal home maker! Most of my childhood memories consist of things like building forts in the woods behind our house and fighting the “bad guys” with my little brother Michael. We were cool kids – no doubt.
Always pretty shy and nerdy most of my childhood, sports became my main social outlet as I grew up through middle school and high school (soccer, lacrosse, basketball, and swimming). The switch from awkward introvert to awkward extrovert must have happened somewhere between high school and college.
I will always be grateful to my parents, my youth pastor, and my young life leaders for introducing me to Jesus Christ. I met Jesus as a young teenager in middle school and there is no one else I will follow for the rest of eternity. (I would love to tell you more about Him if you’re curious)
After high school, I attended the College of William & Mary (go tribe!) and graduated with a B.A. in Psychology with a focus in Family Therapy. Then, in a move that surprised even me, I came on staff at Trinity Presbyterian Church back home in Charlottesville as the High School Director. The past few years have been challenging and wonderful as I have grown to really love these students.
The most recent (and 2nd most important!) event in my life happened on July 6th, 2007 when I married my high school sweetheart Rachel. She is my best friend, my soul-mate, and my companion. Nobody else even comes close. Period
If asked to describe myself in one sentence, I would say: I am a follower of Jesus Christ, a husband to Rachel, a pastor to high school students, an adventurer, and a student… in that order.
Dan, its so wonderful to read your story!
I am a New York Marotta. Sorry to say, the Marotta family in New York has had alot of unusual tragedy and sorrow. I have often wondered why. We have all been estranged since I was two years old. I am 60. Jesus is the only reason I’m alive! God is my everything. Please pray for us. You sound just wonderful. Presbyterians are wonderful strong people, in my experience.
As for the swine flu, take your booster shot in Psalm 91. The Word of God is quick and powerful, sharper than any two edged sword, and it penetrates the joints and the marrow, even the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit.
Psalm 91, touch and agree with my Godson Robert, nephew Dale and I. (Whatever two or more of you agree as touching on the earth, will be done by My Father which is in heaven, Jesus said). I’m getting chills.
Psalm 91: I will not be afraid of the pestilence that walks in darkness…BECAUSE I have set my trust upon God, even the Most High which is my refuge, there will no evil befall me, neither will ANY PLAGUE come near my dwelling. For He will give His angels charge over me, to keep me in ALL my ways.