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Responsible for leadership and oversight of Student Ministries, both Middle and High School, including teaching, discipling, and outreach. Dedicated to equipping and affirming parents in their efforts to disciple their children. |
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Tony Viola, Pastor of Student Ministries
Pastor Tony was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Growing up in a Catholic family, he attended not only a Catholic church but also an Evangelical Free Church. While being immersed in the activities of both, he gradually began to notice differences between the two churches and decided to make the EFCA church his home. As a teenager in the youth ministry there, he put his faith in Christ at a Dare2Share conference. He then pursued full time ministry and attended Moody Bible Institute, where he graduated with a bachelors in Youth Ministry and Biblical Studies in 2019.
Pastor Tony is convinced that being a youth pastor is his passion and calling. He understands that being a part of what God is doing in the lives of students is a great privilege. He sees the purpose that drives youth ministry is founded on two fundamental principles: the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. Christ-followers are called to be disciples who make disciples. This is what he hopes to see happen not only within youth ministry but also within the Church, community, and in the world.
In the summer of 2017, Pastor Tony married his best friend, Cori Viola. They met at their home church, and for several years before dating, served on the leadership team together for the high school youth group. He loves Cori dearly and loves that he gets to go on new adventures with her as his forever teammate.
Pastor Tony is also a huge sports guy. He loves playing sports as well as watching them. He also a big movie fan, and loves coffee, biking, and dates with Cori.
Phone: 815 874-6806 Ext. 215
