Joe Leonard | Director of Music & Youth Ministries

I’ve been on the staff since 2011, first as the choir and bell choir director, and have grown since then.  In the spring of 2015, I started the Ignite Youth Choir and co-directed with Debbie Kanyo that first season, then took over as sole director in season 2.  At the time, Ignite was for middle school youth only.  In the fall of 2015, I became the Director of Youth Ministries and combined middle and high school youth into one group. Ignite expanded to include high school youth in 2018 and will be enjoying their 9th season in 2023.  

(more information on these ministries can be found on their tabs)

Covid brought many challenges to worship and small group gatherings, especially music.  We worked hard to provide music in a safe manner with masks, social distancing, and pre-recording.  In 2021, I was promoted to Director of Music which includes Praise Team, Chancel Choir, and Bell Choir.  Along with my staff responsibilities, I also serve on Church Council, chair the Extreme Church Makeover team, and record periodical videos on our Facebook and YouTube pages called De-JOE-tional, What’s Up GaFUMCk?, and Out of the Box.   

(links to both of these can be found on our church Facebook and YouTube pages)

Contact Info:

imnoavgjoe@gmail.com

gpsyouthministry@gmail.com

igniteyouthchoir@gmail.com

Cell: (618) 973-2244