Why Do I Have a Mustache?

First, let me apologize.

If you've arrived here after seeing me on a Sunday morning, in the grocery store, or around town, I understand your confusion. I have received concerned looks, double takes, and at least a few people who acted like they didn't know me.

The good news is that there was a reason.

Earlier this summer, we held a fundraiser for our students. People could donate to one of two causes:

Save the 'Stache or Shave the 'Stache.

When the dust settled, Save the 'Stache won by a grand total of $48.49.

• Save the 'Stache: $2,267.38

• Shave the 'Stache: $2,218.89

More importantly, together we reached our fundraising goal. That is worth a lot more than my temporary loss of good judgment.

The agreement was simple: if the mustache won, I would keep it through the summer.

Unfortunately, someone reminded me that summer doesn't officially end until September 22, 2026. I had not fully considered that detail when I made the promise.

So, for the sake of my integrity (and apparently my facial hair), the mustache remains.

The current plan is for the mustache to retire on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the first day of fall.

Until then, thank you for your patience. Thank you for supporting our students. And if you happen to see me in public, please remember:

I'm just a pastor honoring a fundraising bet.

It won't be forever.