Taylor Gray

Personal Jesus Story

I was raised in a Christian household and with encouragement from my older brothers, prayed a prayer of faith at a young age. Not long after this, my parents divorced and this shaped me during adolescence. I credit the prayers of my mother, especially, because during this season of my life I became enraptured with the Scriptures; in particular the story of Solomon. I learned from a young age to develop a prayer life of my own and was taught that I needed to develop a love for the Holy Scriptures. God’s grace has been evident in my life and He has been patient to call me into deeper surrender. Bitterness and unforgiveness, fear of others’ judgement, timidity and self-doubt; these have all been areas of surrender Christ has brought me through.

After high school, I spent a gap year in Sweden at an international Bible school. This was a unique season of adventure, prayer and spiritual growth. My time there prepared me for college and beyond. More than anything, it solidified a deep conviction of sharing my faith and the gospel. I continued this pursuit while at Georgia Tech and became involved with Cru. This campus ministry gave me more practical tools for sharing the gospel and my personal witness to God’s work in my life. I was not convinced I should go into full-time ministry but I knew I was supposed to live a life with purpose, mission and express my faith along the way.

I have always desired to follow Christ as closely as possible. Various denominations fascinated and, at times, frustrated me. I did not always understand theological divisions. Thus, it was never in my plan to ever consider deep denominational ties. However, after getting married and being exposed to the rich expression of the Christian faith found in Catholicism, I joined the Catholic Church in 2018. It has been a marvelous joy and surprise to discover and embrace historical ways of living the faith. Jesus has been beyond merciful to me and I’ve never been more passionate to share my faith through word and deed.

Passion for Heaven is True

As St. Francis of Assisi is often quoted saying, ‘Preach the gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.’ This is the most concise statement of the Christian life; the life of a disciple and as a witness. Before the term ‘Christian’ was used, Acts of the Apostles tells us we were known as ‘Followers of the Way’. This way of life, this way of following Christ’s teaching, must be shared. Never without charity and always with conviction. Heaven is True is another avenue and tool to share my faith in Christ. I’m passionate about inviting others into a life of surrender to Jesus Christ who is ‘the Way, the Truth, and the Life.’ I’m thankful for HIT’s existence as it helps us to continue advancing the call of the Great Commission.

Career and Experience

I have spent the last 10 years with Roam and currently work as the Director of Operations & People Strategy. I have learned from excellent leaders, mentors and strategic business owners. I’ve helped grow a small business and understand how to think critically, strategically and creatively when you are faced with strict budgets and competing priorities. I have also been a part of, and led, multiple teams. I understand acutely the need for collaboration and empowering each member of a team to accomplish the goal. I also have a keen understanding of putting the right people in the right seats. I hope to help advance HIT’s goals in a manner that maximizes our resources, passions and strengths.

Personal Touches

I have been married for nine years and have three amazing children. I absolutely love being a dad and enjoy getting to play with my kids. I also love sports – especially soccer and football. I enjoy watching my teams compete and getting to play on occasion myself. Traveling with my wife or family is always a blast when we can make it happen. I also love reading; usually I’m drawn to history, theology, leadership development, philosophy or a good fictional novel. Finally, my wife and I enjoy watching shows together (if life and little ones permit!!)