Bio of Rev. John W. Landis


Rev. John Landis is our interim pastor. He is known for his insightful and entertaining preaching. His preaching is Biblically based, theologically grounded as well as contemporary and relevant in application. John has a reputation as an exciting and informative teacher. His insights into Biblical studies, church history and discipleship have helped many to discover new excitement for their spiritual journey. He is an equipping pastor who is dedicated to helping all discover and develop their gifts so that they may fulfill the call to ministry that each Christian has.

Rev. Landis received his Master of Divinity Degree from Northern Theological Seminary, Lombard, IL. He is currently pursuing his doctorate at Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit. His thesis centers on leading change across generational lines. He was ordained in 1999 after successful corporate and consulting careers.

He has served as an intentional interim pastor for a variety of churches over the past fifteen years. He has also assisted churches with strategic planning. He has conducted assessments of congregational health and made recommendations to aid congregations in returning to vitality. John assessed and made recommendations to assist a congregation in transitioning leadership to the next generation. He recently served the American Baptist Churches of Michigan as the Consultant for Stewardship and Congregational Health.

Rev. Landis has led sessions on strategic planning and church leadership at various training events. He served as a member of the steering committee and faculty of the American Baptist Churches of Michigan Lay Pastor Institute and chaired that committee. Rev. Landis has provided pulpit supply to congregations from a variety of theological backgrounds. He remains active in the ecumenical community.

John is a gifted vocalist and choral conductor. He has performed with both professional and amateur theater and vocal groups. John has a special passion for liturgical theater. He is known for writing creative liturgy.

John owns The Symbiosis Group, LLC, a twenty five year old consulting firm. His extensive experience in strategic planning, human resources, training and marketing gives him a diverse background to bring to ministry. He is a past president of the National Speakers Association chapter in Michigan. John lives in Canton, Michigan with his wife Nadia and two daughters Anjali and Meera.