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. His ministry journey took 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 over 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. Today, that passion continues as he leads Rejoice Radio, a national network reaching listeners across the country and around the world. Now serving as Executive Vice President of one of the largest Christian liberal arts colleges in America, Jon remains committed to shepherding people—whether in the classroom, through the airwaves, or in the daily work of preparing the next generation to stand strong in their faith. He and his wife, Jenny, have been married for over 30 years, stepping into their first full-time ministry role in Alaska just two weeks after their wedding. Today, their greatest joy is seeing their four children actively engaged in Christian education and ministry.