About John

John has been leading worship at HFC since May of 2022 and joined the staff in January 2023. He is also a full-time worship professor at Cedarville, University. John has over 25 years of worship ministry experience as a worship pastor, volunteer, and consultant. He has
an M.Div from Hope International University and is pursuing his PhD in Christian Worship at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. John and his wife Nicole have been married for 22 years and have three kids – Reese, Haden, and Quinn.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a child of the 80s, we had a Commodore 64 at home and an Apple IIe at school. I wanted to be a computer programmer.

Where were you born?

I was born in Harvey, Illinois.

What are three things you can’t live without?

My guitar, my Bible, and my family.

What are two things nobody would guess about you?

1. I have a twin brother. 2. I’ve moved over 25 times in my life.

What is some of your favorite music?

I appreciate all music. I obviously love worship music. But I also love jazz, classic rock, singer/songwriter, musical theater, classical. I’m a
fan of songs my Cedarville students write!

What is a guilty pleasure?

Sometimes you just need a McGriddle.

What is your favorite place to eat in Springfield?

Sushi Hikari Moe in the CoHatch

What is your favorite Bible verse? 

So many, but Colossians 3:12-17.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  13  Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.  14  And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15  Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.  16  Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as
you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.  17  And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to
God the Father through him.