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Montana Ordination Story
My name is JD Griffith.
I’ve been married to my beautiful wife, Sarah, for 10 years, and we have two amazing children. Our daughter just started kindergarten, and our baby boy was born six weeks ago. I feel incredibly blessed to share this life with such an amazing family.
I’m pursuing the Licensed Christian Wedding Officiant certification to officiate my uncle’s wedding. Recently, while we were huckleberry picking, my uncle and soon-to-be aunt shared that they had finally picked a date for their wedding and were planning a simple courthouse ceremony. Excitedly, I mentioned I could officiate the wedding, so they wouldn’t need to search for someone else. We laughed, finished picking, and went home. The next day, my uncle called and said they’d be honored if I officiated their wedding. I was taken aback but also deeply moved, knowing this was a path I wanted to pursue.
Walking alongside others in their faith journey blesses me and helps further the Kingdom of God. I’ve been supported by so many others in my life, and I feel called to extend that same love and encouragement to others as I grow in my own walk with God.
Growing Up and My Journey to Healing
I’m originally from Montana and the second oldest of eight kids. I was raised Pentecostal, in a church that emphasized holiness and strict rules about what not to do. Outwardly, I seemed to have everything in order, but inside, I struggled to grasp the depth of God’s grace. I was deeply involved in ministry but burned out from doing it all out of obligation rather than joy. I’ve since learned that true motivation comes from a Christ-centered life, and from that wholeness, I can walk alongside others.
During that season, I worked in insurance for a boss who attended my church. He was a friend and mentor who supported me through tough times, often sensing when I was struggling. He showed me what God’s love and grace truly looked like.
After attending a family wedding in Portland, Oregon, I felt a deep longing for change. The atmosphere awakened something in my soul—being in a new place with family was refreshing. Stepping off the plane, I felt like I’d come home, though I didn’t fully understand what God was doing. During that visit, I was offered a job by my aunt and uncle. It was a clear next step if I chose to move.
The following Sunday at church, I felt God’s strong presence, urging me to trust Him and make the move without knowing why. When I returned home, I felt torn. Leaving behind everything I knew seemed overwhelming.
A few weeks later, my boss called me into his office and, to my surprise, said, “I accept your two-week notice.” Confused, I told him I hadn’t resigned. He smiled and replied, “I know, but you will. The Lord is calling you, and you need to listen.” He had no idea about my trip or the tug I felt from God, yet his words confirmed everything.
I left work that day and wept on the drive home. I finally surrendered to God, saying, “Lord, I trust You. I will go.”
Discovering Purpose and Healing
I moved to Portland, found work, and started settling in. But the transition wasn’t easy. Despite excelling in my new job, I still felt empty. My cousin invited me to his small group, but I hesitated, burned out from years of ministry. Eventually, I gave in and attended. At first, I kept my guard up, but over time, the fellowship and genuine community began to heal me.
One evening, a young woman walked into the group. I thought, I could marry her. Over the next few years, we grew closer, attending church and small groups together. One night, she shared her story with me with complete vulnerability. Her openness and authenticity were unlike anything I’d experienced. She showed me what love, grace, and compassion truly meant. That woman is now my wife.
God used this season to heal my brokenness. Through my wife’s example, I came to understand His love in a deeper way. I now know why God called me to Portland—to find healing and restoration.
Answering the Call to Serve
Being asked to officiate my uncle’s wedding was humbling and inspired me to pursue a deeper relationship with God. My wife found Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) and shared it with me. I’m amazed by the courses and resources offered, and I’m excited to grow in my knowledge of the Bible and ministry skills.
My goal is to walk alongside others in their journeys, offering the same love and grace I’ve received. By growing in vulnerability, compassion, and biblical understanding, I hope to help others experience the healing and hope found in Christ.