New District Youth Director | Phil Johnson
As this time of transition in the Minnesota Student Ministries department ensues, we are incredibly excited to welcome Pastor Phil Johnson to our Minnesota District Council team as the new District Youth Director.
Pastor Phil was born into a Minnesota minister’s home as the oldest of three boys, where he cultivated a strong foundation in faith and ministry from a young age. In 2011, he graduated from North Central University and married Audrey. Together, they have been blessed with two boys, ages 9 and 7. Their family has been an integral part of various church communities over the years, reflecting their unwavering commitment to serving God and others.
They have served under the leadership of Pastor Chris Book and Pastor James Biffert, and for the last 11 years under Pastor Nate Ruch as the Lead Youth Pastor at Emmanuel Christian Center (ECC). As ECC has grown and expanded to multiple campuses over the years, Phil has excelled as a leader of both students and leaders, demonstrating a remarkable ability to inspire and guide young people in their spiritual journeys. Phil and Audrey are seasoned, relational leaders who possess a deep passion for reaching the next generation. Their love for Jesus and those He has called runs deep. The team of Minnesota Youth Pastors and leaders is incredibly strong, and with God’s help, they will continue to grow even stronger.
“We know there is a lot of rich history in this role,” said Pastor Phil. “So, we really recognize that we are standing on the shoulders of giants. We are honored and humbled by all the work that’s been done, but we are very excited for the work yet to be done.”
