Pastor Jay grew up in a family of nine on a dairy farm in Northeastern Wisconsin. He accepted Christ at a young age. At the age of 17 he received the call of God to become a pastor and in 1986, he began his training at North Central Bible College (now North Central University) graduating in 1991. God’s direction led him to the southwest side of Chicago, where he and six other students planted a church and so began Risen Savior Assembly of God. In 1992, Pastor Jay joined the staff at Trinity Assembly of God as Assistant Pastor of Youth and Children’s Ministries. Pastor Jay married his wonderful wife, Kristine, in June of 1994. Pastor Jay and Kristine have five children: Alex, Morgan, Olivia, Isabelle, and Ashley, who went to be with Jesus in 2001. Pastor Jay joined the staff of Evangel Assembly of God as Youth Pastor in 2001 and has led Evangel as the Lead Pastor since November of 2005. Pastor Jay currently serves as a Wisconsin/Northern Michigan Ministries Network Presbyter, serving the pastors and churches of our area. For many years, he was a District Four chaplain through the Salvation Army, ministering to individuals after a tragedy, and led the District Four Faith-Based Group, organizing events like Faith and Blue and National Night Out in partnership with our local police department. In his free time, Pastor Jay enjoys family getaways, biking, playing golf, and picnics at the lake.