Essen is the founding pastor of Tabernacle.
He was born and raised in Tidewater. After they graduated from JMU, Essen married Cathy, his high school prom date. They have four kids, Rachel, Sarah, Michael, and Lydia, and love taking family trips together (Maine and Florida are favorites!).
Essen enjoys creating artwork, birthday cakes, and good dinners. He also has an embarrassing affinity for Star Wars Legos (Matthew 7:1-2).
He earned his M.Div. and D.Min. from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando.
Contact Essen at essen@tab-pres.org