Jon is our pastor and one of the church founders. Here are some things you may not know about him:

What is your favorite movie?

I know it’s not original, but honestly, It’s a Wonderful Life. Can’t watch it without crying. This answer is deceptive though. It hides the fact that I am a total cinephilia and watch all kinds of movies. I especially like Noir. 

What was your first concert?

Queen at Kemper Arena - 1982. (Opening act - Bily Squire).

How do you take your coffee?

lced Latte (16oz)

What inspires you creatively?

Dialogue. My creative juices begin to flow when I converse with people. 

Kari is our Children’s Director and her favorite part about the role is, “I get to inspire and nurture a living and breathing faith in our children by curating intentional spaces that invite question asking, interaction, and response while encouraging a whole lot of fun.” Let’s learn a little more about her:

What is your favorite movie?

I recently watched the 1980's movie FAME at a historic theater in Winterset, Iowa. I discovered the theater while working in Winterset. I spontaneously popped into the theater to see it. I had the theater to myself and couldn't help but sing along. Magical!

What was your first concert?

Chicago in Chicago at Poplar Creek Music Theater on a date in college (I grew up near Chicago).

How do you take your coffee?

Black like a purist.

What inspires you creatively?

Teaching. Discovering local restaurants, coffee shops, book stores, and the culture, vibe, and quirks of a new city energizes me. It's why I love my side gig of teaching teachers how to teach reading and writing more effectively. When I go to cities to teach, I dig into their world.

Josh is the talented man who leads us in worship every Sunday. We sing with him each week, but here’s some things you may not know:

About Me:

I get to lead our music on Sundays with a wonderful team of other musicians. I love it because it allows me to consistently use one of my passions to enrich people's experience on Sunday and point them in some way to their Creator. One of the things that's unique about doing this at Beggar's is our emphasis that everything belongs to God and that art can move us toward the truth of Jesus in meaningful ways, even if it isn't explicitly spelled out in an image or song lyric. This means there's space for us to present music that sometimes isn't overtly "churchy" but still has something important to say about God, His creation, how He intends us to be, and all that. It's a lot of fun; and it's a pretty special thing to get to be a part of (and of course, there's plenty of space for the "churchy" too).

What is your favorite childhood toy?

When I was very young, I had a stuffed dog named Ruff. He was a plump, floppy-eared little guy who went everywhere with me (along with his best friend, Dalmation). I don't remember much of how we'd play or what we'd talk about; I just remember he was always there. Some years ago, my dad moved several states away, and I ended up with a few boxes of my childhood things. I guess Dalmation decided to set off and chase his own fortune, but Ruff made his way back to my house. And since I've had kids of my own, he’s found new beds to sleep in and new friends to spend his time with. That makes me happy. You're a good boy, Ruff.

What are you most proud of?

This is a super mushy answer, but it's my wife and kids. By a million miles.

What is your favorite album?

I bet I haven't purchased a hard copy of an album in at least a decade, so it's tough to name something very recent. But I'd probably have to say Strange Trails by Lord Huron. It has a unique concept, meaningful themes, and a kind of spooky, pseudo-rockabilly flavor to much of the music. It's a great listen.

Andrew is the youth pastor at Beggars Table! Let’s learn a little more about him:

What is your favorite album?

Definitely mewithoutYou's Brother, Sister. The beauty and imagery of Aaron Weiss' lyrics never leave my thoughts. It's one of those albums that doesn't just bring an atmosphere to whatever you are doing, but transports you into itself. It's hypnotic, it's well crafted, and it hasn't left my mind since I first heard it.

What is your favorite childhood toy?

When I was five, Santa brought me a Star Wars X-Wing Fighter. I still have it.

What is your favorite movie?

My favorite movie right now is Babette's Feast. I first watched it last year and I can't get it off my mind. It's a Danish film about artistic creation, food, and divine grace. Go watch this movie. Seriously.

What inspires you creatively?

Specifically in the art of writing, I'd say Terry Pratchett. He's my favorite author. He juggles silliness and comedy with a deep pathos. One page he has you laughing out loud at a silly joke or pun and the next you're scrambling for a highlighter wanting to forever remember a biting aphorism on what it means to be human. He was hilarious and he was angry in the best way and when I write, I want to be like him.

How do you prefer your coffee?

Free.

Beks is the social media manager at Beggars Table. Let’s get to know the face behind the feed!

What is your favorite album?

Right now, I love the album Ribbons by Bibio. It has an energizing yet relaxing air to it and I love throwing it on in the morning.

What are you most proud of?

My art series and small business, Enchanted Quill. I spend many weekends getting out and selling my art at pop-up events and I've watched my art and creative community grow because of that. I'm really happy with the direction I'm headed with it.

What inspires you creatively?

Live music, art, time spent in the woods, and watching good anime.

What is your favorite restaurant?

Currently addicted to the cashew & tofu dish at Phikul Thai Bistro.