Andy Bedford (MS & HS Youth Pastor)

This is the first in our series of leaders posts to help you get to know the staff and volunteers that are working with your kids.  We'll post a new leader each week.  First up is our amazing student pastor Andy Bedford!

In Christ,

The Crossover Leadership Team

Everyone has a story to tell. Sometimes our stories look like thrillers, action adventure, dramas, romantic comedies, or even greek tragedies. One of my favorite stories is Forest Gump since it captures a little taste of every genre. I identify with the protagonist in the story Forest Gump. He’s not a very smart man but he knows what love is. Much life Forest, I’ve had a good bit of tragedy, comedy, suspense, and action adventure in my story. I think that is why God has called me into student ministry!

I have a lot to share about how God has crossed over into my story and has radically reshaped my life. I grew up as a military brat and lived all over the world. Parents divorced early on in my story and this created a good deal of resentment and frustration within me. I turned to very unhealthy copping mechanism to numb some of the emotions of being a confused and lonely teen. It wasn’t until a year after high school that I met someone who loved me unconditionally. I met Jesus and my life has never been the same. As a student pastor, more than anything I want my students to know they are loved by Jesus and He wants them to crossover into a new life and relationship with Him. THIS IS HUGE! Jesus is a big deal for me and I can’t shut up talking about Him. 

Shortly after becoming a Christian I made another huge life decision, I joined the Marine Corps. I served in the Marines for 6 years as an Aircraft Mechanic (no I have never personally shot anyone). I went to Iraq in 2005 and upon coming home met another person who would love me unconditionally. I met Christina, my beautiful bride, and my life has never been the same either. Christina and I have been married for 8 years. We have 3 sons (Carson 5, Grant 3, and Cole 1). When I’m not at work I spend every moment I can with my family. We love NASCAR, Braves Baseball, and Monster Trucks. I moonlight in the evenings as a T-Ball coach. 

Favorite Movies: Forest Gump, Braveheart, Saving Private Ryan, LOTR, the Matrix (Only the First One), Sweet Home Alabama (My wife made me put that)

Favorite Music: Jack Johnson, Foster the People, Florence and the Machine, Matisyahu, Veggie Tales Silly Songs with Larry

Favorite Books: THE BIBLE (Duh), What’s So Amazing About Grace? (Yancy), The Hobbit (Tolkien), Screwtape Letters(Lewis), Blue Like Jazz (Miller), Llama Llama Red Pajama (Dewdney)