amber shirley bio
Date / Place of Birth - I was born on December 5, 1989 in Byron, Georgia. I’ve lived there my entire life. After high school I decided to attend Emmanuel College. Since I am now a student there I reside in the dorms on campus.
Places Lived - Byron, GA. That's about it.
Education / Experience - I graduated from Peach County High School in Ft. Valley Georgia in 2008. After that, I became a student at Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Georgia where I am now a junior in the School of Christian Ministries.
I’ve wanted to be in ministry since I became a Christian. At the age of sixteen I was the leader of a small group of middle school girls that met once a week. I would also do the lessons for the youth group whenever given the chance. It was at this age that I began traveling around Georgia speaking at different youth retreats and events. Last year in 2009 I was the Youth Pastor for Royston First United Methodist Church in Royston, Ga. I continue to travel wherever I am invited to speak.
Salvation Experience - I did not grow up in church. At the age of twelve, a friend invited me to the Methodist church in Byron where I lived. Shortly after this, I gave my life to Christ. I attended Byron United Methodist Church until I came to Emmanuel College in the fall of 2008. Through spending lots of time in the youth group by going to the services and youth retreats I was able to learn about and grow closer to God over the years.
Favorite Things about Crossroads - This church is a family. I am college student living three hours away from my family, but by coming to Crossroads I have found a home away from home. I thank God for bringing me to such a loving group of people.
Family members - I grew up with my mother and step-father in Byron, Georgia (its south of Macon, Ga.) My father, step-mother and four brothers live in North Carolina where I take the time to visit them as often as I can.
Hobbies - I absolutely LOVE photography. I enjoy taking pictures that may allow people to see the world in a different light. I also love writing and painting from time to time as a way of worship. Traveling is another thing I thoroughly enjoy, along with baking (whenever I get the time).
Secret Ambition - One day I hope to travel around the United States speaking at different Christian conferences. God has given me a heart to encourage Christians that wish to grow closer to Him. It’s also my dream to become an author or a photographer… It’ll be interesting to see if that actually happens. Only God knows.
