St. Michael's of the Valley

The Reverend Deacon Jack Brownfield

jbrownfield@stmichaelsligonier.org

The Reverend Deacon Jack Brownfield is excited to return to Western Pennsylvania to begin his ordained ministry at St. Michael’s of the Valley! After growing up in Bethel Park, PA, Jack attended Georgetown University (studying theology and English) and then completed his MDiv at Princeton Theological Seminary. Since PTS is a Presbyterian seminary, he then went to Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, VA for a yearlong Anglican Studies program before being ordained a deacon in June 2024. While in seminary, Jack served as an intern in congregations in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Maryland, and spent a summer working as a chaplain at Shadyside Hospital.

Jack is an avid student of theology and history, especially of the Reformation. He is passionate about preaching and teaching the Good News of God’s free grace towards the world and listening to God’s Word as it is spoken to each of us, here and now. He enjoys connecting theology and history to our lives in the real world, so that these subjects are not just shut up in books but come alive and make a difference for how we love and trust God and live with one another. He is eager to get to know the St. Michael’s community and would love to connect with you over a cup of coffee or a home visit.

Outside of the church, he loves nature, hiking, and biking, which means he is thrilled to serve in such a beautiful part of Pennsylvania. He also enjoys reading and writing,particularly theology, history, and fantasy, as well as exploring coffeeshops, bars, and restaurants. He has also recently taken up running and hopes to complete a half-marathon sometime in the future!

As deacon, Jack will serve on Sundays by reading the Gospel, setting the table for Communion, and preaching. He will also help with pastoral care, visitations, Holy Hikes, and children’s and adult Christian education. He will (God willing) be ordained a priest in the coming months and will continue serving as curate at St. Michael’s for at least a couple of years.