Each month, we take time to get to know some of our church members just a little bit better. We hope this short interview allows you to lean-in and helps us all know one another better and grow together as a body of believers.
Tell us a little bit about you and your family.
My name is Olivia Pendley. I grew up in Gainesville, Florida with wonderful parents— my dad is a pastor and planted a church in Florida, and my mom a stay at home mother. I have an older and younger brother that I'm very close to. In high school, my parents moved to Montgomery for my dad to start working at Trinity Presbyterian Church and now I attend UA and go to Trinity Tuscaloosa!
Can you share one way that God has been faithful to you recently or something he is teaching you?
I am a senior, so I am in a busy time that is full of change and uncertainty. God has been teaching me that He is everywhere I go. Even in the chaos when I cannot seem to find peace, He is the peace within me and within the world. I am learning that while there are "thinner places" (places that can feel closer to heaven and God), joy and peace are right underneath my feet because Jesus brought those things to earth for me to have and participate in.
What makes a person a good friend? What characterizes your best friends?
I think being a true listener and being available in all walks of life—happiness, sadness, discontentment, contentment. And reminding each other that you're on each other's minds in little ways.
Who’s your go to band or artist when you can’t decide on something to listen to?
John Mayer, The Brook and the Bluff, Valley, Drew or Ellie Holcomb
What’s something you like to do the old-fashioned way?
Plan my weeks! I love paper calendars.
What’s the best gift anyone has every given you?
My grandmother took me on a trip to London, France, and Austria.
What is one of your favorite smells?
Frasier Fir candles anytime of the year, not just Christmas!
What is something that your friends would consider “so you”?
BIG earrings and splitting food
What is one thing on your "bucket-list"?
I want to live in Europe for a short time. I am hopefully going to check this off my list this summer if I get to "au pair" (nanny) in Italy.
Name three things you are loving.
I am loving The Book of Unknown Americans. It is one of the most beautiful books about empathy and connection. I’m also loving Drew and Ellie Holcomb's music together, especially the song “Electricity.” And I am enjoying peppermint brownies.
What are you reading or have you recently read?
The Four Loves by CS Lewis and The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd Jones. They are a great mix together!
