We are so excited to welcome Nick Diliberto, our new Director of Youth & Family Ministry! Originally from New Orleans, LA, Nick recently moved to the Bay Area from San Diego. He comes to us with decades of experience in youth ministry and feels deeply called to serve middle and high school youth and their families.

Here’s an introduction to Nick, in his own words:

How would friends and family describe you in three words?

Fun, Big Heart, Intentional (okay, that’s four words…ha ha)

Favorite movie/book/band?

Band—Led Zeppelin

Introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between?

Introvert. I might appear to be an extrovert because I’m outgoing and enjoy being around people. But sticking to my understanding of an introvert, I gain energy and am refreshed when alone.

Favorite way to spend a free Saturday?

Wake up at 7:30 am (that’s sleeping in for me). Coffee in my PJ’s. Read. Journal. Reflect. Go for a walk. Check in with one or two of my kids (bonus if I get together with my daughter in person). Meet up with a friend for dinner and a comedy club.

Name a hobby or hidden talent.

I surfed a lot in San Diego but have hung up my board since moving here. I’ve been in a dodgeball league off and on for over 5 years. Most recently, I joined a league in Oakland.

Favorite book or verse of the Bible?

Proverbs and Psalms

What’s a spiritual practice that keeps you grounded?

For the last 7 years, I have been journaling nearly every day. It’s a great way to process and reflect on life, and to notice God’s presence in and around me.

Where have you seen God show up lately?

I see God helping me transition how I relate to my three kids, ages 20-24 years old. As I’ve mourned the loss of them going out on their own, I’ve sensed God’s presence and comfort. Recognizing that they need something different from me in this season of life, God’s loving guidance has helped me pivot how I parent.

Why YOUTH ministry?

I’ve sensed a calling to work with youth since I was 19. I have a particular heart for middle and high school students, because I faced my own struggles during those years. I didn’t grow up in a youth group, and I know how much I would have benefited from that kind of community and guidance.

In my 20s, I was deeply impacted by mentors who invested in me, and that experience shaped me in lasting ways. Now, I want to pass that same support on to students—helping them see that God is actively at work in their lives and giving them the tools to recognize it.

If there is one thing you hope the youth of this church come to know about God, what would it be?

I hope that students would know that God is full of grace, love, and peace. Their relationship with God isn’t based on performance, but on unconditional love and acceptance. I pray they would recognize and join in on God’s activity in them and the world around them.

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