Austin Bender, Youth Pastor

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Austin grew up in Northern Indiana in a family of 10, and graduated from Elkhart Central High School in 2005.  His call to youth ministry led him to Olivet Nazarene University.  While at Olivet, Austin served in a local youth group and on Olivet’s Student Council as Student Body President and President of Men’s Residential Life.  He graduated with a BA in Youth Ministry in May 2009 and was called to Dayton Church two months later.

Austin’s desire is to be used by God to develop and equip young men and women for His purpose.  “I love youth, and the more I serve in ministry with them, the more I desire to invest in their lives in a way that will help each one of them and their families draw closer to our Heavenly Father.  I know that God has such big plans for their lives, and I want to prayerfully help guide them in His ways.”

Austin and his wife, Amber, met at Olivet and were married May 2009. Amber is pursuing her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at Butler University. Although Amber has not been called into formal youth ministry, she loves being involved with the youth group and is excited to support Austin in his calling.

If Austin is not at church, you may find him watching his favorite football team, Da Bears.  He loves outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, off-roading and water sports. Austin’s other interests include playing practical jokes, catching TPers, belly flopping and shinin’ coons.