Meet The Pastor
Pastor J Mark Johnson
A little about myself: My name is J Mark Johnson.
I am first and foremost a follower of Christ. As such, I have no claim of perfection, but I know I am following the One who is and I endeavor, although imperfectly for sure, to be more and more like Him each day!
Secondly, I am the husband of the lovely Lady Kim Johnson, and have been married to her now for over 38 years. She is beautiful both physically and spiritually, as well as an incredible source of strength for me! I love her more than words could ever describe. She is part of the package deal! If you don't like her - you don't like me.
Third, I am the proud father of three grown and successful children and have 5 of the best, and might I say the most beautiful and handsome, grand children to date. All of my children are perfect and those of my children who are married picked perfect mates as well! (Obviously a proud father speaking but you get the idea).
Further, growing up, part of which included going to Shoshone Idaho schools as well as attending and graduating from Valley High School, I was blessed to have been raised in a Pastor's home and have endeavored - although quite imperfectly at times - to provide that same opportunity for my family.
Several years ago God called me into the ministry and as such I underwent training through Global University, finishing each of the 3-tier system that the Assemblies of God had to offer at the time: Certified, License, as well as Ordination level curriculum.
In 2006, I was blessed to become the pastor of Shoshone Assembly of God church. After some incredible faith-building years and great friendships made there, I felt God's leading to leave in early 2014.
After some time away from active ministry, which gave me some needed time for personal reflection, perspective, and spiritual growth, I was privileged to be voted in as the pastor here at Valley Christian Center in Hazelton, Idaho in July of 2017.
I am bi-vocational and as such am currently employed as a Dealer Representative for a national metal building manufacturing company. As such, I am blessed to be able to travel across the Western area of the US and witness, first hand, some great people as well as God's beautiful creation.
As far as hobbies go, I love anything to do with handguns; I play guitar (I didn't say well); and enjoy photography at a very very basic level.
However, at the end of the day, I am just a normal guy trying to do my best to follow God's leading. Sometimes I do decently well - other times - not so much! But, with God's help, I will keep on keeping on - bruises and all!
A verse that always digs deep into my soul and motivates me are these found in Hebrews 12:1-2:
1. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.
2. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.
Who we focus on - that's the secret!
If we haven't met yet I hope to meet you sometime - but more importantly - in Heaven!
God Bless!
Pastor Mark