John Haynes, Student Ministries Director at First United Methodist Church, grew up in Palatine, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. He and his family attended the local United Methodist church there. As he grew older and began to understand his personal faith more, he accepted Christ, as Savior, for himself and became very involved with his church youth group. During high school John served as a student leader in his youth group and helped form a youth-led worship Band, Second Hand Disciple. His experience with both of these leadership roles helped pave the way for his acceptance of the call, and his desire, to work in youth ministry.

After graduating from high school, John went to Huntington University in Huntington, Indiana, where he studied Youth Ministries and continued to build experience in leadership roles.  As a part of the Youth Ministries program, John completed a six and a half month internship at King Street United Brethren Church in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.  At this church of about 1700, John was given lots of opportunities to try new things and to really grow as a leader. While there, he helped lead several trips, taught Sunday School, co-led a small group for High School guys, as well as taught lessons during weekly youth group meetings.  John also helped oversee and coach the youth praise team.  He credits this internship experience with giving him the confidence to seek out a full-time youth ministry position following graduation.  In May of 2010, John graduated from Huntington University with a Bachelor of Science in Youth Ministries.

During the summer of 2010, John made several big life changes.  On July 24th, he married Elizabeth Challa, also a graduate of Huntington where she studied Children’s Ministry.  Not too long after that, he accepted the position of Student Ministry Director at First United Methodist Church Ministries, Inc.  John and Liz made their final big change of 2010 in October, as they made the big move to Pendleton.
John has varied interests ranging from watching movies, playing video games, Frisbee golf, and collecting Mr. Potato Heads. Beyond enjoying these things alone, he loves to use his interests to connect with others.

As the Student Ministry Director, John’s responsibilities include overseeing Sunday school for grades 6-12, weekly Wednesday night youth group, youth activities during Family connections, retreats, summer camps, and any other special events that come up. He enjoys spending time with the youth and getting to know them as individuals. John is excited to see how God is going to work in the lives of the students and what He is going to do with this ministry.

Contact John at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or at the church office (765)778-8074.