Rev. Samuel (Sam) Grottenberg re-joined the staff team as our Lead Pastor in 2019, after previously serving as Youth Minister from 2007–2011 and Associate Pastor during the 2017–2018 ministry year. Sam is a self-described “Bible nerd” whose heart for ministry is centred around the interpretation of biblical texts for life in today’s world and shepherding people in discipleship to Jesus. He seeks to be used by the Lord in helping people to integrate the Christian tradition with intellectual rigour and robust spiritual formation, while also equipping them to live out God’s mission in their communities.
Sam was born and raised primarily in Calgary and has pursued academic training in Alberta, and B.C. He holds the Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Regent College, a Diploma in Denominational Studies (United Church) from the Vancouver School of Theology, and the Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Development from Rocky Mountain (Bible) College. Alongside of his ministry here at Southwood, Sam is currently studying part-time towards his PhD in Divinity/New Testament through the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.
Although raised in The United Church of Canada, Sam has also pastored in two other denominations. He was ordained a Minister of Word, Sacrament, and Pastoral Care in June 2019 by the United Church's Pacific Mountain Regional Council and was called to serve here at Southwood starting shortly thereafter.
Together with his wife, Stephanie, Sam has three energetic young children. Outside of being a massive geek who loves reading theology books, he can often be found brewing speciality coffees, writing, cycling, or playing a round of golf.
