Jason Fisher: a journey of faith from Greenville University to ELCA leadership
Published: October 28, 2024
Author: Liz Dowell
When Jason Fisher arrived at Greenville University, he had a clear plan: study youth ministry and serve the church. Yet, like so many, his journey would take unexpected turns that shaped his career and deepened his faith.
Jason graduated in 2002 with a bachelor of science in youth ministry. His path was rooted in a calling that began during high school in Champaign, Illinois.
"I thought I was going to follow in my dad's footsteps and become a firefighter," Jason recalls. "But I could feel a different pull by my junior and senior years. I was involved in Bible studies and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and I realized God called me to something more full-time—ministry."
That calling led him to Greenville University, a small Christian university with a powerful impact. Jason visited several colleges, but Greenville stood out.
"Walking around Greenville's campus, everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I didn't get that vibe anywhere else. It felt like a community where I could focus on God's word and ministry," he says. 
During his time at Greenville, Jason thrived in the classroom, but his hands-on experiences solidified his path. He worked part-time as a youth director at a local Baptist church, applying lessons from the University's outstanding religion department to real-life ministry situations.
"I felt like Greenville gave me a great balance of education and practical opportunities to serve the community," he says.
One of the more unique experiences that impacted Jason during his time at Greenville was an art class called Juxtaposynthesis. Professor Steve Heilmer taught the course, which explored creative combinations of discarded materials. But for Jason, it became much more.
"It was redemptive," he explains. "We took things that were broken, discarded, and turned them into something new. It reminded me of God's work—taking the brokenness and making us whole."
That redemptive vision carried through his years in ministry. After Greenville, Jason accepted a position at a Lutheran church in Rockford, Illinois, the same denomination he grew up in.
His passion for serving youth and helping congregations flourish led him back to Champaign, where he served for 16 years at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where his faith journey began.
In March 2024, Jason accepted a new role as the director of the evangelical mission for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). In this position, Jason works with congregations throughout central and southern Illinois, helping them deepen their discipleship, expand outreach, and connect with their communities.
"It's a role where I visit congregations, encourage them, and support their ministries. It's about being present, serving, and listening to what God is doing."
Reflecting on his time at Greenville, Jason says, "Greenville wasn't just about preparing me for a job. It prepared me for life—to listen deeply, to love others sacrificially, and to follow God's call wherever it may lead." 
