HAGERSTOWN -- When Nancy Jenkins became the minister of congregational care at First Christian Church in Hagerstown on July 1, she brought an interesting background with her.
"I was Jewish and a physical therapist in my other life," Jenkins said.
Baptized in the Disciples of Christ in 1998, Jenkins said she was attracted to the denomination because members are encouraged to explore their beliefs, something she has been doing all her life.
"You are asked if you accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior," Jenkins said. "That is the only requirement."
Now 63 with three grown children and three grandchildren, Jenkins said her decision to change her life's direction wasn't easy.
"I had left my church, a job I loved and given up a home at the beach to go into the seminary," Jenkins said.
A passion for her new calling and a love of reading sent her to Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville, Tenn.