Sam Ochstein

About me

Gender Male
Industry Religion
Occupation Pastor-theologian
Location South Bend, IN, United States
Introduction Husband, pastor, tea-sipping, coffee-drinking, aspiring theologian, wanna-be writer, Jesus-loving, people-loving, pilgrim on the way. If you're the type that's interested in more formal credentials, here are mine: Ordained in the Missionary Church denomination, I've served in pastoral ministry and leadership since 2006. I've earned a B.A. in Bible and Ministry, an M.Min. and M.A.T.S. from Bethel College (Mishawaka, IN). I'm currently working toward finishing an M.Div. at Fuller Theological Seminary (Pasadena, CA) and I plan to eventually puruse doctoral studies in theology.
Interests Reading books, buying books, and browsing for books!!! What can I say? I'm a total nerd. I also like to be outdoors, taking walks and jogging, hiking, and mountain biking. My interests include theology, philosophy of religion, Christian worship and liturgy, literature, memoir, movies, and music.
Favorite Movies When Harry Met Sally, It's a Wonderful Life, The Godfather movies, Love Actually, 50/50, One Day, Dead Poets Society, and a host of others!
Favorite Music 90s Alternative Rock, Rock, Pop Rock, Jazz, and most anything that is acoustic guitar driven. I love Coldplay and Hillsong!
Favorite Books I'm a voracious reader. Here are some books that have profoundly shaped my thinking on various issues. In Constant Prayer, The Myth of a Christian Nation, It, The Gospel of the Kingdom, The King Jesus Gospel, A Generous Orthodoxy, The Secret Message of Jesus, A Million Miles in a Thousand Years, Working the Angles, The Contemplative Pastor, The Pastor, Simply Christian, Simply Jesus, How God Became King, Basic Christianity, The Divine Hours (3 volumes), Untamed: Reactivating a Missional Form of Discipleship