At his ordination on Aug. 7, Pastor Zachary Thorpe shared how God’s love and leading in his experience had led him away from plans for a career in physical therapy to experiences in leading youth and in pastoral ministry.

After experience as a boarding academy dean in Wisconsin and graduating from Pacific Union College with a degree in theology, Thorpe was invited to serve as associate pastor at the West Covina Hills church in 1998. Since then, he has continued his ministry at the church while completing a master's degree in religious studies at La Sierra University.

He and his wife, Andrea, are the parents of a two-year-old son, Tyler Aaron Jacob. According to Thorpe, “God is continuing to develop a heart for people, and there will always be a special place for youth.”