By Sara Quam
The Magnolia United Methodist Church's new pastor first went to school to become a music teacher. Now, his love of music and affection toward youth are part of what got him assigned to the job.
Chris V. Johnson has just one Sunday under his belt as pastor at the Magnolia and Adrian churches. HeÕs finishing up his seminary schooling now and plans to stay for at least nine years.
He was assigned under a program that allows pastors who aren't fully ordained to work while finishing their school and licensing requirements.
Methodist ministers are assigned by the Bishop with consultation from the cabinet. Johnson stood out as a good fit for Magnolia because of his interest and experience in contemporary Christian music.
"The Praise Team will be fun," Johnson said. "I'm interested in working with the kids and seeing where they can go."
Johnson played drums, guitar and sang with a traveling Christian music group and will draw on his experience for the Praise Team.
But, obviously, music isn't all Johnson is interested in. His faith led him to seminary school when he thought teaching was his call.
"Ultimately, the decision came three years ago, but it had been there since I was 7 years old," Johnson, 33, said.
He looks forward to knowing his congregations. "They're really good people," he said of his encounters with members so far.
He doesn't want to change a lot about the churches but would like to see more church growth and work on community outreach programs.
He and his wife, Charlotte, live in Adrian with their 6-week-old daughter, Kharli.