Kyle Dresback

EDITOR’S NOTE: A church community is created when people gather together for the love of God. At the same time, Saint Philip’s is composed of many people who represent different ages, life experiences, and world views.

The “In conversation…” series is one attempt to create possibilities for connection between the different people in our community. As varied as we all are, there are also similarities and mutual interests waiting to be discovered. And there is one thing we all share: A desire to know God and be in relationship with him.

This week’s conversation is with Saint Philip’s parishioner, Kyle Dresback.

Kyle Dresback

How long have you and your family worshiped at Saint Philip’s?
We’ve worshiped here for about one year.

Which service do you attend?
The 9:00am service.

Were you raised in a faith tradition?
Yes. I grew up in the Evangelical tradition which fostered in me a love for God and an appreciation of scripture from an early age. I studied theology as an undergraduate and then earned a Masters in Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. And while I will always love theology, I’m not destined to make it my career.

What about Saint Philip’s appeals to you?
Two things stand out: the liturgy and the formation opportunities.

I appreciate how the liturgy draws us in—especially my children. It invites us to be participants in the worship and not mere observers.

Both children attend Pusch Ridge Christian Academy and each thrives there in their own way. My daughter simply loves to learn. My son is more excited about physical education and recess. But on Sundays after worship, both grab my arm, excited to get to formation. That’s definitely a sign we’re in the right place.

My wife and I are part of the parent formation group. We’ve loved the camaraderie we found right away with the other parents. The group has helped us to understand Episcopal traditions a bit more and to become part of the community more quickly.

How would you describe Saint Philip’s to someone not familiar with the parish?
For someone with a church background like mine, it’s a little exotic—prescribed movements, responsive readings and prayers, and a big, gold Bible paraded in and out. I love it.

It’s hard for many churches to avoid catering to the worshiping “consumer” but Saint Philip’s doesn’t do that. Instead, I’m invited to join a community that participates in practices that have existed for a very long time. That’s refreshing—and compelling.

Has Saint Philip’s surprised you?
Yes! A few months ago I attended Wednesday night Mosaic and was stunned by how busy the campus was. The choir was rehearsing, an AA group had a meeting, the Tucson Flute Club was practicing…it gave me a glimpse into how much more happens at the parish than just Sunday morning worship.

What do you do professionally?
I teach Humanities to 7th graders.

What is one of your superpowers?
Is curiosity a superpower? I love to learn—and that keeps curiosity alive. At our house “Interesting Thing Thursday” has developed. I have to teach the kids something interesting they don’t know about. As they’ve gotten older, I’ve often had to do some research before sitting down to dinner!

How do you refresh yourself?
For years it was ultimate frisbee but I’ve recently discovered pickleball…!