What’s in a name: I was born on April 23rd, 1963, Phillip Amory Stephens.  It’s an unusual name, a family name, and I’m proud to have it.

     Pictured  is my paternal great-granddad, Thomas Amory Ekyen Hodgkinson, for whom I was named. I don’t know much about him, other than he was pretty awesome.

 

My mom and dad raised me in a home that “lived-out” love everyday, rather than speak of it. I always knew I was loved, and safe. They instilled in me a legacy of  faith and harmony that has served me well.

I have two older brothers (Steve & Mark) and a younger sister (Amy) who have always tolerated me graciously. The older I get, the more I appreciate the blessing of having them in my life.

 

 

I married way out of my league, to my childhood sweetheart Jacqueline Kay Lee. It was love at first site… or probably lust, but love came quickly. She has always been gorgeous – Homecoming Queen in high school- but what emanates from her spirit is pure beauty.

 

Jackie and I have been married for over 39 years, and we have two amazing and very grown-up and accomplished daughters, Amanda & Lauren, and four precious granddaughters. My son-in-laws are great guys, that I truly admire and appreciate. My daughters never cease to amaze me. We have a special father-daughter bond that I never take for granted. Their parts and pieces add up to the composite of Jackie and I, and I could not be more pleased with the creation.

 

 

Favorite Quotes:

• “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

• “Faith minus vulnerability and mystery is extremism. Don’t call it faith if there’s no vulnerability or uncertainty. If you’ve got all the answers, then don’t call what you do faith.”