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For Rev. Vanessa A. Sims (M.T.S. ’15), pastoral care is rooted in presence, listening and love that extends far beyond the walls of a church. A 2015 graduate of Perkins School of Theology’s Master of Theological Studies program with a concentration in pastoral care, Sims has dedicated her life to serving individuals and communities through compassionate spiritual care.

Sims is the founder and executive director of Thou Art My Sister Ministries, a mission church without walls serving primarily women in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Drawing on her faith and the tools she gained at Perkins, Sims has made a lasting impact across the DFW community.

A Redirection After 20 Years

Sims served as a pastor’s wife for more than 25 years and worked in Community Supervision and Corrections for more than 13 years. In both roles, she regularly encountered individuals seeking help and simply needing someone to listen to their stories.

Through those experiences, Sims came to recognize her own need for spiritual renewal and community — a realization that led her to Perkins School of Theology. 

“Most importantly, for me to become an effective leader, I needed to grow spiritually, emotionally, and professionally,” she said. “The pastoral care classes at Perkins helped me to grow in all three areas. “

Sims’ first experience with ok×ÊÔ´Íø dates back to 1973, when she earned a cheerleader certificate at a camp held on campus. 

“Back then, it was unimaginable for me (a female) growing up in a single-parent home to attend college,” she said. 
Her return to the university in 2012 marked a full-circle moment.

A Nurturing Community

Reflecting on her time at Perkins, Sims said the combination of challenging coursework and a supportive community shaped the work she would later do in the DFW area.

“God knew I had a heart for him, I just needed a loving and nurturing ‘church’ to encourage me,” she said. “The Perkins family became that body of believers that I needed.”

Sims expressed gratitude for the faculty and staff who supported her journey, including Dr. Jeanne Stevenson-Moessner, Dr. Alyce M. McKenzie, Dr. Tamara Lewis and Tracey Anne Allred. 

“They loved me unconditionally and pushed me to become better,” she said. Allowing the Holy Spirit to lead and guide me and with their love and support, I have been blessed to accomplish and participate in many works.”

Life After Graduation

In February 2017, Sims was ordained through the Association of International Gospel Assemblies (AIGA), a mission-oriented international association committed to unity and kingdom-building. AIGA leadership supported Sims’ vision for a creative mission ministry and assisted her in formally organizing Thou Art My Sister Ministries. In March 2018, the association granted the ministry a local mission charter, recognizing it as a 501(c)(3) organization.

Mentorship has become a central focus of Sims’ work, particularly for women who grew up in single-parent households.

“Too many females grow up experiencing poverty, homelessness, violence and lack of adequate health care,” Sims said. “Mentorship is an action of love for neighbor and a reflection of God’s love.”

The most rewarding aspect of her ministry, Sims said, is listening.

“After hearing personal stories and seeing people grow spiritually, emotionally and professionally, I feel blessed to participate in some small way in their growth,” she said.

Sims believes ministries must engage people beyond church walls to serve communities effectively. Many individuals she encounters identify as spiritual but not religious — a reality she views as an opportunity to demonstrate God’s love.

“Rather than preaching repentance and salvation, I accept them where they are spiritually,” she said, citing Romans 8. “Nothing can separate us from the love of God.”

Her work includes published poetry, original music, participation in Perkins preaching initiatives and leadership in community and cultural programs. In recent years, her pastoral care has expanded into social justice advocacy, including work connected to a historic African American cemetery. 

“My journey is a reminder of God’s promise,” she said, quoting Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you.”