Article Contributed on: 2/17/2009 11:36:36 AM
You wouldn't know it when you first look at him, but Rev.
Rusty Butler of Arvada United Methodist Church used to sport a ponytail.
Previously the youth minister at the church from 1995 to 1999, Butler said a fundraiser was held to see if he would cut it off. He later did, but now laughs when members occasionally ask if he'll grow another one.
Now, as the senior pastor since 2005 at Arvada UMC, 6750 Carr St., Butler still clings to his unconventional roots, so to speak.
He had spent the morning of Feb. 12 preparing for a video study class he was going to teach later that night called, "Beyond Theology." It is one of three faith-based classes Butler teaches, which includes a Wednesday Bible study and a Friday book study.
Butler describes himself as someone with a natural questioning of authority, which he said also helps him connect with younger members. And with his personality, he feels perfectly suited to lead the 600-strong "liberal progressive congregation" at Arvada UMC.
This openness also is expressed with a mural in the main hallway at the church. A student at Metropolitan State College of Denver created it and the art depicts a sort of Last Supper, but with all people of different religions participating.
"It speaks to our respect for other faiths," said Butler. "We don't have all the answers; we're all on a search."
It is with this philosophy Butler tackles the daily challenges of ministering in an urban setting.
"How does the church evolve and change to meet the needs of members?" Butler asks. "How do we speak to them? We have to rethink, reach out and understand their faith journey."
On Butler's agenda Feb. 12 is a visit with
Fern Burns who is a member of Lamar United Methodist Church, which is ministered by Butler's good friend, Rev.
Jessica Rooks.
Burns, 91, is currently recovering from a heart attack and staying at Covenant Village, 9153 Yarrow St., in Broomfield, an assisted living and rehab facility. Butler said he makes hospital visits about two to three times a week around the metro area.
When Butler comes to visit, Burns is a bundle of energy. She doesn't appear to be someone who just had a massive heart attack, let alone someone whose heart stopped during that time and was literally brought back to life.
"I guess I've got one or two things to do yet," said Burns with a laugh. "If you don't think there's a God, you're missing the boat."
After a short visit with Burns, Butler heads back to the church to get ready for his lunch meeting with
Robert Smith, a student at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver and a candidate for ordination as a pastor.
Butler has lived in Arvada for six years. His wife
Lynn works for an oil and gas company and they have two sons:
David, a teacher at Arvada High School, and
Jared, an art student at the University of Northern Colorado.