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Christopher Schouten's
United Church of Christ 
Ministry Portfolio

My Journey & My Calling

Reconnecting People with Themselves & God through the Liberating Gospel of Jesus Christ

My story could have turned out very differently. Growing up gay at a time when many faith communities vilified and abandoned LGBTQIA+ individuals, I was profoundly blessed by a United Church of Christ (UCC) congregation that spoke a different truth - one of the deep, transformational love of God. Over the years, through diverse spiritual practices and the embrace of inclusive communities, that love has cultivated in me a true sense of wholeness. The UCC provided the fertile soil where the seeds of my faith first took root; now, after seven years of active discernment and engagement across all settings of the church, that faith has grown a thousand-fold.

Jesus’ message of liberation resonated with me early on, but I have come to realize its urgent relevance for everyone. In an era of increasing marginalization, the church must be a prophetic voice that speaks truth to power and commits to the ongoing liberation of all people. Whether we are facing the systemic weight of oppressive governance or the quiet burden of personal trauma, the Gospel calls us to a dual vocation. My ministry is dedicated to this two-fold path - defending human dignity and seeking justice in the public square, while simultaneously creating sacred spaces for the deep inner healing and personal growth of every child of God.

This journey has instilled in me a radical self-awareness and the courage to lead with authenticity and vulnerability. I believe that when we are connected in communities of growth and service, we are better equipped to face a fractured world. My ministry focuses on this essential "soul work," because personal transformation is the engine of discipleship. By fostering an environment where individuals can become their healthiest, most joyful selves, we empower a new generation of stewards and ministers to go forth and heal the world in God's name.

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About Christopher

Christopher Schouten is a spirited and multilingual minister-in-the-making with a passion for healing, wholeness, and holy mischief. A lifelong student of both theology and humanity, Christopher brings a unique blend of academic rigor, pastoral care, and irreverent humor to his ministry. Born and raised in the United Church of Christ, he came out as gay at age 15 in Des Moines Iowa, and—ever since—has been reclaiming faith as a source of radical affirmation and not religious trauma. Now leaving behind a 30-year marketing career for the ministry, Christopher has lived across Europe, speaks five languages, and is currently a Member in Discernment in the Southwest Conference of the UCC. He holds a deep love for the Enneagram (Type 3w2, naturally—the Achiever with a heart), is a certified cat dad, and carries an unshakeable belief that God’s love is not just unconditional, but fabulous.

Christopher identifies as ESFJ on the MBTI—a Consul personality that just wants to make sure everyone at the potluck feels seen, heard, and well-fed. He serves at First Church Phoenix UCC as a Member in Discernment, where he's known for his thoughtful, vulnerable sermons, his deep engagement in LGBTQIA+ ministry, and his ability to quote both Marcus Borg and RuPaul in the same breath. He is married to his beloved Wilbert, a charming Dutchman who sells Lincolns. Christopher’s ministry is rooted in the sacred journey from shame to pride, fueled by inner child healing, Enneagram wisdom, and the belief that the Gospel calls us to be our most honest, expansive, and loving selves.

Education

1987-1991

B.A. with Honors

University of Iowa

Majors:
Journalism & Mass Communications (PR track)

Spanish Language & Literature 

Minor:

Asian Languages & Literature (Japanese)

1990-1991

Year Abroad

University of the Basque Country

San Sebastián, Spain

Basque Language Immersion Program 

Basque History

Languages Spoken Fluently (European Level B2.1 or higher):

 

English, Spanish, French, Dutch, Basque

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