Meet our Pastor and learn more about his story
My Story
Hi, I’m Justin Bryant, Pastor of the Mount Vernon Grace Brethren Church and I’d like to share some of my story with you.
Growing Up
For over 30 years I watched my Dad, Pastor John Bryant, work to plant, grow and lead this church. I watched him pour his heart and strength into the lives of those who attended our church. I saw his labor, suffering and sacrifice which was similar to what Paul describes in 2 Corinthians 6:4-10. Although I wanted to be willing to do whatever God asked, I knew that I definitely did not want to follow in my Dad’s footsteps!
The Journey
As I look back, I can see that The Lord was masterfully orchestrating events in my life to prepare me and bring me to the place where I was willing to receive His plan for me. After graduating high school, I attended Columbus College of Art & Design from 2000-2004 and then started a design/brand studio which I ran full-time for over 7 years. During my small business years I learned a lot about walking by faith, interacting with people and communicating effectively.
My Call into The Ministry
During 2012 and 2013 I doubled-down on my business and worked as hard as I could to make it “successful.” I was busier than ever but the reality was that work was consuming my life. On September 16th-17th of 2013 The Father’s words in Luke 5:1-11 and Luke 9:57-62 broke through to me. He called me into the ministry, saying Justin “preach to My people” and forsake all, or 'leave your nets' to follow Me. I immediately shut down my business and entered the ministry under my Father. At the time, this was one of the most difficult moments of my life — I felt like my personal plans and goals were slipping away.
‘Passing of The Torch’
“Whoever you are, wherever you are, you need The Truth — God’s truth. Truth is life.”
Very soon after my call The Lord made it clear from Hebrews 4:10 that my Dad had completed his pastoral ministry and that it was time for me to lead the church. On December 1st, 2013 I was ordained by the Mount Vernon Grace Brethren Church and was officially instated as the Pastor. The months between my call and ordination were a whirlwind, but I am honored that God counts me worthy to follow my Dad, similar to how Jesus was called into His Father’s business (see Luke 2:48-50).
My Flock
As the shepherd of the Mount Vernon Grace Brethren Church, I’m responsible to lead my sheep so that they have the opportunity to thrive and grow. Part of my call is to ensure that the church feeds well on The Truth of God’s Word through my Sunday morning sermons and teaching on Sunday and Wednesday evenings. Every single sheep is valuable first to God, but also to me — I am willing to give my life for my sheep! I know and understand that being a Pastor isn’t simply a job or an occupation, it’s spiritual calling and a way of life.
My Family and Personal Interests
In addition to the church, my family is very dear to me. I am blessed with an excellent wife, Rachel, who walks in holiness. We live in Mount Vernon with our children Judah, Wetzel, Josie, Eben and Cyrus. As a family we enjoy hiking and exploring parks in and around Knox County. In the evenings, we enjoy puzzles, Lego and board games. My personal interests include design, architecture, photography and typography. During the growing season I help Judah care for his honeybee apiary.
You Need Truth
Perhaps you’re asking yourself “What does Justin’s story have to do with me?” To that I say: Whoever you are, wherever you are, you need The Truth — God’s truth. Truth is life (see Deuteronomy 32:45-47). If you’re interested in truth, life and holiness I would love to meet you and introduce you to our church! We always have more room in our pews for anyone who sincerely desires God’s truth!
