Rusty became our Senior Minster on August 14, 2017. He and his family immigrated from the southern United States to walk alongside the FBCH community (you might notice a bit of a southern accent in his preaching, it’s just another part of our community’s diversity). Rusty is married to Jenny Bilderback Edwards and they have a daughter who keeps their lives full of wonder and mystery.
Rusty is more prone to talk about orthopraxis (right practice) than orthodoxy (right belief). To that end, he values involvement in the community as he strives to put his faith into action and live out the love of God for all people. That might find him serving on the board of a local nonprofit, getting hands dirty in a community garden, or advocating for the rights of those too often marginalized.
Rusty earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion and Baptist History from Carson-Newman University, a Master of Divinity from Baylor University, a Master of Theology with a concentration in liturgy and Christian formation from Duke University, and a Doctor of Ministry in preaching, also from Baylor University.
When not busy with life at FBCH, Rusty enjoys time outside on his bike, hanging out in Halifax with his family, and sharing good food and drink with friends.