Pastor Chris Duckworth

Chris Duckworth,
Pastor at New Joy Lutheran

I'm Chris Duckworth, the pastor at New Joy Lutheran Church. I'm responsible for sharing God's Word of love and grace with all people, and guiding our congregation in faithful living.

My work varies from one-on-one caregiving to leadership team meetings, from preaching to teaching, from writing to collaborating with others for the sake of the Gospel. New Joy has a passion for extending a radical welcome and sharing generous grace. I am thrilled to be part of this faithful, creative congregation.

In November of 2020 I concluded over 6 1/2 years of service as a Chaplain in the Indiana Army National Guard, including one deployment to Kuwait and Iraq in support of Operation Spartan Shield and Operation Inherent Resolve. I am grateful for my time as a National Guardsman, and for the support New Joy gave me to extend our ministry of welcome and grace among those who serve in uniform.

My dear wife Jessicah is a pastor, published author, and scholar who serves as Program Director in the Religion Division at Lilly Endowment, Inc. We live in Carmel with our three children — Talitha, Cana, and Naaman.

Originally from Philadelphia, I'm an avid aficionado of soft pretzels, hoagies, and cheesesteaks. I'm a runner, Star Wars fanatic, news junkie, baseball fan and admirer of all things Latin American.

My favorite Bible verses are Mark 9:24, "Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief!" and Philippians 2:4, "Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others."