Caleb Pitkin is a pastor in Chattanooga, Tennessee. For the past 4 years he has also been a hobby blacksmith. Learning this craft was a major change from a lifetime spent in academic pursuits. Those pursuits included a Masters of Divinity from Methodist Theological School in Ohio and a BA in Economics from East Tennessee State University as well as a stint teaching English in rural Japan. Working with both head and hands has opened new doors in life and in ministry. Practicing an ancient craft has helped scripture come alive in new ways. Being a part of the blacksmithing community has helped forged connections with a diverse group of people. Caleb’s other hobbies are baking, video games and checking new beers in on UnTapped. In addition to time at the church and the forge Caleb serves on the Holston Conference’s Sexual Ethics Team and the District Committee on Ordained Ministry.
Caleb’s LEAD talk topic: In a world of mass production, craft can link us to each other and can help us see scripture in new ways.
