Rev'd James M. Hairston

 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and were sitting with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard this, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ’I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.

  – Matthew 9:9-13 (NRSV)

Serving as a correspondent for The Geek Down has been a great opportunity to merge theology and pop culture in its most grassroots form.  Going to PAX (Penny Arcade Exchange) was a blessing. I connected with video game developers, board game producers, and professional cosplayers. Most importantly, I connected with members of “my flock”; soldiers in my unit.

Connecting with them outside of the military context was an awesome experience. They were able to see me not only as a spiritual leader, Army officer, but as a fellow nerd. We were able to relax and build in a way that was authentic and yet complete. My hope was to show that ones identity does not change due to settings. If you are a person of faith, that is a part of you, regardless of you are cosplaying as Storm, or playing the new Call of Duty.

– Fr. JMH