That is, if Don "Big Weather" Schwenneker is in the house. Because not only does the ABC11 morning and noon meteorologist know how to detail the expected weather conditions of the day, he also knows how to deliver a message or two from the Good Book.
"I preached my first sermon about a year and a half ago," he told me. "I've always felt called to do something like that, I just never was sure how to put it into action, and I had a pastor who recognized that passion and she showed me the path."
That pastor is the Rev. Kelly Lyn Logue, now at Benson Memorial United Methodist Church in Raleigh. Until recently, she was Senior Pastor at Holly Springs United Methodist Church where Don and his family are members.
"Don's preaching style is his style in general," she says. "Whether he's relating with others or teaching Sunday School or Confirmation Class, his style is narrative, topical, relevant and fun!"
Don is an Assistant Lay Leader at Holly Springs UMC and a Lay Speaker, which means he can fill in in the pulpit if needed. He's also spoken at several other churches in the area, and has upcoming preaching engagements scheduled for August 31st at his home church and September 14th at Benson Memorial. He talked with me about his preaching recently one day between newscasts.
"Five years ago I never would've thought that I'd have done it. But as I look back on my spiritual life I can see God working at certain times in my life to put me on this path. I just didn't see it as it was happening.
"Part of the Methodist tradition is, back in the first days of the Methodists they would have one pastor who would preach to several different areas - the circuit rider -- which, I feel like I relate to now. Because I fill in for pastors when they go on vacation or they need a week off and I go into churches that I've never been to before."
Does he get nervous talking about sin and salvation rather than cold fronts and cumulus clouds?
"I get a little nervous about going into a church, meeting new people, as anybody would be in going into a new situation," he says. "But as I sit and I'm getting ready, I say a prayer. I ask that the Spirit just guide me and comfort and help me."
Don is working on becoming a Certified Lay Minister, which would mean more responsibilities and preaching opportunities. But might there be a more permanent pulpit in the future for this Iowa-born TV personality?
"I don't think so. As much as I love the preaching side of it and the teaching and the delving into it, there's an administrative side that pastors and preachers have to do. Dealing with money, dealing with personalities in the church. And at least at this point, I don't feel like I need to do that now."
But Don's former pastor says she wouldn't be surprised to see Meteorologist Don Schwenneker become Pastor Don Schwenneker someday.
"Yes, Don has been a pastor to me personally as well as a friend and partner in ministry. I can't imagine my life in ministry through Holly Springs United Methodist Church without his servant leadership working right alongside me."
We'll have to wait to see which forecast is correct.
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