Reverend Toni McSorley

Pastor Toni’s story begins in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where she grew up during a time of great national change. Her early years were shaped by rural life, social upheaval, and a deep, lifelong sense of God’s presence. At 13 she began practicing martial arts, a passion that would span nearly six decades, lead her to international competition, and earn her multiple world championships as both an athlete and coach.
Her path in life has taken many forms — professional chef, lighting designer, educator, natural health practitioner — but the constant thread has always been service, learning, and a heart open to God’s leading. She spent many years in the Jewish faith, where her spiritual life deepened profoundly, before later discovering her home in Christianity.
Toni met the love of her life, Jim, while working in natural health. Together they raised her two daughters and delighted in their growing family of grandchildren. After Jim’s sudden passing, Toni found comfort and community in the people of Peace Lutheran Church, where she first encountered the grace-filled welcome of Christian congregational life.
When the Holy Spirit called her into ministry, Toni followed with faith and determination, continuing her seminary studies while teaching and living with her daughter Mera, son in law Drew, and grandchildren Ari and Wren. Her daughter Ilana, son in law Jeff, and grandchildren Reed and Juliet live in Atlanta. After Seminary, she spent 4 ½ years as the Pastor of St. James Lutheran Church in Greeneville, Tennessee.
She believes she has mastered the art of losing keys in places no rational human would consider, and she may be the reigning champion of misplacing cell phones. There are days when she runs on coffee and chocolate, but if life is a journey, hers has been a crooked route with plenty of detours, spontaneous dance breaks, and the occasional dubious hair color. Through it all, she has learned that laughter really is the best medicine—unless you have a headache, in which case, she recommends actual medicine.
Pastor Toni gives thanks for the privilege of serving Fairfield Glade Community Church and prays that God will always lead us in the work we do together. Shalom!