Tom Simmons: A Journey from the Army to the Pulpit to the Woodshop
Tom has journeyed through life, embracing different passions and paths that have shaped him into the multi-faceted man he is today. From serving as a machine-gunner in 3/116 Infantry Battalion to being a Capitol Hill staffer, to ultimately dedicating his life to the Church, his journey is marked by his drive to serve, to grow, to build, to lift up Jesus, and to take what is good and make it better.
Graduating with an M.Div., followed by an M.A. in Christian Education from Virginia Seminary, and enhancing his skills with a D.Min. in preaching under the legendary preacher Haddon Robinson at Gordon-Conwell Seminary, Tom’s education reflects his devotion to his faith and his constant desire to deepen his knowledge and hone his skills.
Since 2002, Tom has been the Rector of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, positioning himself as a spiritual leader and guide for the congregation. His role also extends into the community, having served as Chaplain for the Purcellville Volunteer Rescue Squad and as a board member of the Inova Loudoun Hospital.
Tom’s passion extends to assisting fellow clergy, whom he serves as The Sermon Coach, helping them enhance their skills and rekindle their passion for preaching. This vocation arose from his doctoral work at Gordon-Conwell Seminary, where he demonstrated that a “coaching approach” is effective in helping preachers improve—while other options don’t bring lasting change. Tom has developed a coaching course that helps preachers increase the power of their preaching and potential to catalyze change within their church communities.
Yet, his story isn’t limited to the Church. His passion extends to his woodshop, where Tom’s creative side goes to work. His hobby-cum-business, Creation in Wood, is proof that there’s no limit to his talents. For the last two-plus years, Tom has been outfitting a new workshop, restoring hundred-year-old industrial machinery for big projects that allow his creativity to flourish.
Last, but certainly not least, Tom is a devoted family man, lucky to be a husband to Danielle. He is a father of five and stepfather to four more! The experiences and lessons from his personal and professional journeys seep into his family life, reinforcing love, faith, happiness, and growth.
Welcome to The Rev. Tom Simmons’ world—it’s a testament to the power of pursuing passions, nourishing faith, fulfilling roles, and choosing love as his beacon in life. Join his journey, engage in his experiences, and be inspired by his commitment to service, faith, and craft.