Andrew McGarry

Director of Student Ministry

Hometown:  Whitinsville, Mass  

Family: My wife Eliza and I have been married for 10 years in September. We are blessed to have three children, Jackie (4) and William (2), and recently welcomed our newest son, Arthur, on March 23rd, 2025.  

How did you come to know Christ?  

Being raised in a Christian family, He was never unfamiliar to me. It wasn't until I was 23 that I came to know Him on a more personal level. After years of struggling to achieve a sense of self-earned merit, or satisfactory standing with God, He finally opened my eyes, heart, and mind. It finally clicked that my works were never supposed to be good enough, but His triumphal work on the cross, and attesting resurrection from the tomb had done enough. The revelation of His grace, mercy, and love (in contrast to strict rules, requirements, and constant judgement) was like a lightening bolt to my spirit, and the intuitive understanding has changed my whole life.  

Favorite verse(s):  

Either 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 or the entirety of Psalm 27  

Fun Facts:

If you were stranded on a deserted island, which three books (besides the Bible) would you want with you?  

  • "How to Live on a Deserted Island: An Exhaustive Guide"  
    • Anything related to world or church history; the longer the better.  
    • Anything by C.S. Lewis or J.R.R. Tolkien   

    Which Biblical character (apart from Christ) has impacted your life most?  

    Abraham. He was called out from his family and followed God, not knowing exactly where, or how, his sojourning would turn out. He was mostly obedient and faithful to God despite his concerns, obstacles, and efforts to work things out on his own. That resonates with me on numerous levels.  

    What are you currently learning in your journey with God?  

    Walking in the Spirit is not just yielding to God, but requesting His assistance in every moment. That is a task the mind and heart must be fully engaged in.  

    What is your favorite dessert?  

    I will never turn down ice cream or doughnuts   

    What is your favorite movie?  

    The Lord of the Rings (as one movie)  

    What do you enjoy most about Chapel of the Cross?  

    This community is adept at raising up, mentoring, and supporting others so they can step into what God may have next for them.   

    Anything else you would like to tell us about yourself?  

    Family, camping, hiking, trivia, history, and theology are how I like to pass the time.

    Education

    Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL