Steps Along the Way

Dr. John R. Loch has been a lifelong resident of Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio. He was born in Sharon, Pennsylvania, and educated in public schools of that community. Having earned the bachelors’ degree at Grove City College and the masters’ degree and the doctor of philosophy degree at the University of Pittsburgh, he served at the dean/director level at two universities while also serving on the faculty teaching continuing education, undergraduate and graduate level courses.Upon graduation from college, Dr. Loch enrolled in Pittsburgh Theological Seminary to pursue ordination as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the PC (USA). However, during his first year in seminary, he opted to pursue a career in higher education and went on to enjoy a forty-two year career serving in positions in student affairs and in academic affairs.Upon retirement in 2005, after a forty-two year career at the dean and director levels at the University of Pittsburgh and Youngstown State University, Dr. Loch went 'back to the future.' He enrolled in the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary’s online Commissioned Lay Pastor course of study to prepare to serve as a Commissioned Lay Pastor in Shenango Presbytery. Since 2007, Dr. Loch has served as the pastor of two congregations. He is currently serving as a Sunday Supply Pastor for churches in Shenango Presbytery and in Eastminster Presbytery. Throughout his career in higher education and in the ministry, Dr. Loch has served in leadership roles and on the board of directors at the local, national and international levels. As a part of his present day ministry, he serves as the Moderator of the Committee on Preparation for the Ministry for Shenango Presbytery and served on the seven person Nominating Committee to recruit, screen and recommend a candidate to serve as Executive Presbyter and Stated Clerk. Dr. Loch has traveled widely in the United States and in twenty foreign countries. This book is a compilation of thirty-one sermons preached in various churches that have been adapted and drawn together at the suggestion of members of those congregations and by friends to share his insights into steps that he and others have taken in their faith walk.