How did I end up with a nickname like Pastor Padrón? Well, it all started when I was working my way through seminary at a cigar shop in downtown Princeton, NJ called A Little Taste of Cuba. During that time, I would often enjoy a Padron 2000 or Londres cigar while working. One day, when I arrived for my shift, the owner, Jorge Armenteros, jokingly called out, “Look who it is—Pastor Padron!” I found the name clever and catchy, and considering that the cigar industry could have given me much less flattering nicknames, I decided to embrace it. Over time, the nickname became widely known among the regular customers and even some of my colleagues at the shop. It became a unique aspect of my identity and sparked interesting conversations with the shop’s patrons, who were often curious about the story behind the nickname. Embracing the lighthearted humor of the situation, I occasionally even signed personal notes and letters with “Pastor Padrón” as a playful nod to the origins of the nickname. As time went on, it became a symbol of the unexpected connections and experiences that can arise in the most unlikely of places.

Little did I know that this nickname would become quite prophetic. I have been an active ordained pastor with the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference for 20 years. In that time I have pastored at 4 churches and have authored and coauthored 3 books. I have been working full-time in the cigar and pipe industry for the last 9 years. Currently, I am the Retail Operations Manager for Twins Smoke Shop in Londonderry, NH. I also host and produce the Not Just Blowing Smoke podcast, and continue to do pulpit supply and speaking events for more than a dozen area churches.

It’s been more than 25 years since Jorge first called me Pastor Padron, and looking back, I have truly embodied the persona it inspired. The name references my Christian faith and calling as a pastor while connecting me to the cigar world. Padrón is one of my favorite brands, and the name also alludes to ‘father,’ which complements my pastoral persona. Interestingly, if you switch the ‘d’ and the ‘r’ in Padrón, it spells “pardon,” which resonates with my emphasis on grace and forgiveness in my personal theology.

Reflecting on this, I realized it was time to expand the Not Just Blowing Smoke podcast and blog to encompass the ‘pastor’ in Pastor Padron on a deeper level. As I delved into this idea, I found that the essence of the ‘pastor’ in Pastor Padron is not just a role, but a vital part of who I am. It represents the intersection of spirituality and the art of enjoying cigars and pipes, the harmony between faith and the passion for exceptional cigars and tobaccos. By bringing these elements together, I aim to share insights that transcend the boundaries of tradition and explore the interconnectedness of faith and the joy found in the ritual of cigar and pipe smoking. This encompassing journey will unfold through thought-provoking posts and engaging discussions, seeking to enrich the lives of those who visit pastorpadron.com. Join me on this harmonious exploration of faith and fire, spirit and smoke, life and leaf, as we delve into the depths of existence and the mysteries that surround us. I hope you enjoy this enriching experience as much as I enjoy sharing it with you!