Minister Munroe

I sought ordination because of my deep commitment to the principles that align with the Unitarian struggle for justice, equity, and the dignity of every individual. As an educator with 23 years of experience, an Army veteran, a devoted husband, and a father to a 15-year-old son and a 9-year-old daughter, I am grounded in the belief that self-actualization flourishes in the presence of a supportive and compassionate community.

My faith is deeply rooted in the Seven Principles: 1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person; 2. Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations; 3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations; 4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning; 5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large; 6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all; 7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

These principles serve as the foundation of my personal and professional life, inspiring me to nurture spiritual and emotional growth, build inclusive communities, and advocate for a world where compassion and understanding guide our relationships and actions.

Here’s a draft of your ministry profile answer:

I was born in Wichita Falls, Texas, but growing up in a military family meant we didn’t stay put for long. My dad was an airman, and his service took us all over the U.S. and beyond. We lived in places like Denver, Colorado; Athens, Greece; and Duluth, Minnesota. His final duty station brought us back to Minnesota, where I finished elementary, middle, and high school.

1986 was a tough year for me—my parents divorced, which was an emotionally trying time. After graduating high school, I took a year off and had a unique opportunity to live with just my dad in New Hampshire, his home state. That time with him was special. Afterward, I returned to Minnesota to start college at UMD, then transferred to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where I graduated in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities.

Not one to sit still for long, I joined the U.S. Army after college and became an airborne paratrooper. When my service ended, I used the Hazelwood Act to pursue studies in Network and Database Administration. I had a stint in the corporate world before realizing my heart was in education. I returned to UTSA to earn my elementary teaching certification, and later added a Master’s in Leadership and Policy Studies.

In 2008, I met my incredible wife, Linda, and we didn’t waste any time getting married. Life blessed us with a miracle son, Lawson, and six years later, our daughter Amelia.

Over the years, I’ve taught everything from 2nd grade to 8th grade. Each grade brought unique lessons, and I cherish what I’ve learned from my students. Outside the classroom, I love running, gardening, and woodworking. Running has been a constant passion—I’ve completed over 50 marathons, 15 ultras, and enjoy the challenge of GoRuck events.

My journey has taken me to many places and through many phases, but the constant has been my love for learning, connecting with others, and striving to make a positive impact wherever I can.

With my ordination, I hope to deepen my ability to serve others by creating inclusive spaces where people feel supported in their personal and spiritual growth. My journey—from growing up in a military family that moved across the world, to serving as an airborne paratrooper, to becoming an educator with over two decades of experience—has taught me the importance of community, resilience, and connection.

Through this ordination, I aim to bring together my diverse life experiences and my commitment to the values of equity, compassion, and self-actualization. Whether it’s officiating life’s significant moments, fostering meaningful conversations, or encouraging others to find their own path, my goal is to help build supportive communities where individuals can thrive.

This ministry is a natural extension of my life’s work: teaching, learning, and walking alongside others on their journeys. It’s about creating opportunities for people to feel seen, heard, and valued as they navigate the complexities of life.

What makes my ceremonies special as a wedding officiant is the personal touch I bring to every service. With over 23 years of experience as an educator and a lifetime of learning from diverse people and places, I understand the importance of building meaningful relationships. I take the time to truly get to know the couples I work with—their stories, values, and vision for their special day.

Each ceremony I officiate is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the couple’s unique journey and love story. Whether it’s weaving in personal anecdotes, honoring cultural or spiritual traditions, or simply finding the perfect words to celebrate their commitment, I aim to create a moment that feels deeply authentic and unforgettable.

At the heart of my approach is a genuine care for the people I serve. I want every couple to feel supported and celebrated as they take this important step together. It’s not just about the ceremony—it’s about the connection and trust we build along the way.

I am happy to travel wherever a couple’s special day takes me, and I’m flexible when it comes to fees and travel arrangements to accommodate their needs and budget. Whether it’s a ceremony close to home or a destination that holds personal significance, my priority is to create a meaningful and memorable experience.

I’ve had the privilege of connecting with people from many walks of life, and I bring that same openness and adaptability to every event. I’m always willing to discuss travel plans and adjust to ensure that the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible for the couple. No matter the location, my goal is to help make their vision for their wedding day a beautiful reality.