“Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.”
• Psalm 84:5

I am delighted that the next step on the pilgrimage of our lives is going to bring us together! Allow me to tell you a bit about myself and my family before we arrive.

My name is Laura Kincaid, and I grew up in Mechanicsburg, PA, where most of my family is still living. I have a degree in Elementary Education from Marywood College and completed the Course of Study at Wesley Theological Seminary. I have had many jobs in my life - teacher, actress, nursing assistant, activities assistant in a nursing home, and supervisor of a group home for people with mental and physical disabilities. There were things I loved in every job - mostly the people! - but it wasn’t until I began my first pastoral appointment 10 years ago that I truly felt that I was exactly where I belonged, doing exactly what I was meant to do. I also saw how every job I have ever had has given me skills and knowledge that have helped me as a Pastor, and I am in awe of how God has tied all these threads together.

My husband’s name is Jimmy. He has a varied background in financial services and Human Resources. He took an early retirement to take care of his mother, Lee, who lives with us. Lee is 90 years old and a former French teacher, but is currently struggling with dementia. Jimmy cares for her and is also pursuing a path to ministry. He will be serving as a Licensed Local Pastor in the Blue Mountain Charge. We both love antiques, old houses, and our cats. We have two children from my first marriage. Fiona is a graduate of Wagner College and is pursuing a music career in New York City. Noah is a graduate of North Carolina State and works as a computer engineer and shares an apartment with his sister in the Big Apple. You will definitely notice them when they come to visit - they are both very tall!

Jimmy and I are both happy to be moving closer to home and we are looking forward to the new family we will find in you! I just celebrated my 54th birthday, and if there is anything I have learned in my 54 years, it is to expect wonderful things when we trust God and flow with his plan. We are looking forward to getting to know you and sharing in the vision God has for Messiah United Methodist Church!

Pastor Laura Kincaid