Rev. Gina Johnson
Senior Pastor
Rev. Gina Johnson (Gina to most) has been a seeker for as long as she can remember. Born on the East Coast, her spiritual journey began early. At just thirteen years old, she experienced what she understood as God calling her to be a shepherd. She had little idea what that meant at the time, but the calling never left her.
Through life's unexpected turns, divine appointments, and an inner prompting that eventually brought her to the Midwest, Gina discovered that faith is not simply something we believe, but something we live, question, experience, and continually grow into.
In 2013, Gina formally answered her call to ministry at First United Methodist Church in Sedalia, Missouri, serving in various roles, including children and youth ministries. In July 2016, she joined First Christian Church in Sedalia as Associate Minister. She earned her Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary in May 2019 and was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in January 2020.
Gina subsequently served as Senior Minister at First Christian Church in Warrensburg (2020–2022), followed by a season of sabbatical, and First Christian Church in Maryville (2023–2026). In June 2026, she began her ministry with Overland Park Christian Church.
At the heart of Gina's life and calling is her profound love for Jesus. He has always been her teacher, her inspiration, and her example of love in action. She is especially drawn to the Jesus who welcomed the overlooked, challenged convention, embraced those who questioned, and recognized the sacred worth of every person. His life and teachings continue to shape how she understands God, humanity, and what it means to walk in the Spirit.
That love is reflected in Gina's deep compassion for people. She believes one of the most sacred gifts we can offer another is the experience of being truly seen, heard, valued, and cared for. Whether through pastoral care, meaningful conversation, laughter, or simply being present in life's difficult moments, she strives to meet people with authenticity, tenderness, and an open heart.
In her ministry, Gina strives to cultivate a church community where people experience genuine belonging, questions are welcomed, differences are honored, and everyone has room to grow. Her preaching is thoughtful, engaging, and grounded in Scripture, inviting people to explore familiar teachings with fresh eyes and discover their relevance in everyday life. Through storytelling, honest reflection, and a deep love for Jesus, she encourages others to move beyond simply knowing about faith toward experiencing it, living it, and allowing love to transform the way we encounter one another and the world.
A lifelong student and teacher, Gina values transparency, honest questions, and the freedom to explore faith without fear of judgment. She believes ministry is less about providing all the answers and more about helping others discover their own spiritual depth and recognize the Divine unfolding within their lives.
Among Gina's greatest joys is being the mother of six extraordinary children. She considers motherhood a sacred privilege, one that continually invites her to see and honor each child as the unique person and beautiful essence they are. She treasures the opportunity not only to love, nurture, and teach them, but also to learn alongside them and from them. Their individuality, wisdom, and presence enrich her life in countless ways, and she is deeply honored to share in their unfolding journeys.
Gina also shares life's journey with Roary, her best friend, spiritual partner, and cherished companion. Rooted in a shared love for Jesus, their relationship is woven through friendship, faith, laughter, spiritual exploration, and the ordinary moments of life. Together, they encourage one another to keep growing, learning, and discovering what it means to live with greater love, intention, and authenticity.
Above all, Gina hopes people encounter more than a minister when they meet her. She hopes they encounter someone who genuinely cares about who they are, what they carry, and who they are becoming.
Still seeking, still learning, and still following the call she first heard at thirteen, Gina believes that the most meaningful ministry begins and ends with love.
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