#WeAreFirstPres Stories: Ushering In Love

You’ve seen him buzzing around First Pres, but do you know Covenant Partner and Usher, TJ Lee? 

Attending since the age of 12, TJ was introduced to our Church Family by his Uncle Tommy (also an Usher), and immediately nudged into service by his mom, Almetta. TJ didn’t know Jesus as a middle school student in 2008, but his faithful service to his First Pres Family was an outward act of humble love that God used to claim TJ’s heart. TJ believes that while our motives and heart-posture may be focused elsewhere, if we’re willing, God will work mightily in and through us.

A picture of Missional Living, TJ is generous with his time and talents to welcome and seat his First Pres Family during Genesis and Traditional services. TJ volunteers for College Ministry’s local missions events, and onboards new recruits for our Hospitality Ministry. He juggles his Pre-Med studies at UCF with his job as a security guard, and always protects his Sunday morning schedule for his treasured role of helping First Pres-ers. If you spot him Downtown on his skateboard, TJ is probably headed to 106 E. Church St. to take care of you and so many others. Faithfully. Selflessly. Lovingly.

As life marches on, and studies and jobs and schedules become more demanding, TJ’s first priority will always be to serve. He said, “God has opened my eyes to see that simple gestures like ‘Hello. How are you?’ and a smile can better someone’s entire day. Loving each other, even in the small things, makes all the difference.” The genuine, kind connections born through TJ’s acts of service are gifts from God that bless his soul and proclaim the Gospel to all!

Be sure to share your gratitude with a big hello and smile for TJ this Sunday! 

To join TJ as a First Pres Greeter/Usher, contact Lori Needham today!