A Shepherd’s Heart, A Servant’s Calling: Jon Lands grew up in the hills of East Tennessee, where the steeples of small country churches stood tall against the Appalachian sky. It was there, in those humble sanctuaries, that he first heard the gospel, first felt the warmth of a church family, and first sensed the call of God on his life. At 15, that call became clear—he was to preach. Not long after, while still in high school, he found himself behind a microphone, not just in the pulpit but also as a high school DJ at a small 500-watt radio station, learning early on the power of words to reach both hearts and homes.

Jon’s ministry journey has taken him from serving on pastoral staff in Alaska and Tennessee to pastoring in West Virginia, where he poured his heart into shepherding God’s people. Under his leadership, a small congregation of 60 grew into a thriving church of more than 1,000, stepping forward in faith through three major building programs, including developing a new multi-million dollar campus. Through it all, Jon remained what he was at heart, a pastor who loved his people, walked with them through life’s joys and struggles, and pointed them to Christ.

Alongside his pastoral ministry, Jon’s love for broadcasting never faded. He founded a regional FM radio network in West Virginia, using the airwaves to encourage and strengthen believers. That passion continues as he leads a college’s national Christian radio network, reaching listeners across the country and around the world.

Jon also served six years as Executive Vice President at one of the largest Christian liberal arts colleges in America. During that time, he invested in students, faculty, and staff, and helped advance the college’s mission to equip the next generation.

Now serving as Pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in Greenfield, Indiana, in the greater Indianapolis area, Jon remains committed to shepherding God’s people and proclaiming the gospel. He seeks to guide others in faith through the pulpit, over the airwaves, and in daily ministry.

Jon and his wife, Jenny, have been married for more than 30 years, stepping into their first full-time ministry role in Alaska just two weeks after their wedding. Their greatest joy is seeing their four children actively engaged in Christian education and ministry.