H7 Story: Multiplying Influence
Simon Johnson walked into First Christian Church’s Student Ministry, 180 when he was sixteen. Like most middle schoolers, he wasn’t exactly sure what to expect—but over the next three years, 180 became more than just a weekly program. It became a place where Simon was known, challenged, and deeply discipled.
Through the “Lead Small” model—where students are placed in age and gender-specific groups led by caring Small Group Leaders—Simon experienced firsthand what it meant to be pursued, supported, and shaped by gospel-centered relationships. His leaders didn’t just guide him through study questions—they showed up in his life. They asked hard questions. They celebrated wins and walked through struggles. And most importantly, they pointed him to Jesus over and over again.
Simon graduated high school in 2023, but his story with 180 was far from over.
In 2024, he stepped back into the ministry—not as a student, but as a Small Group Leader for the 6th grade boys, serving faithfully each week alongside Bryan Englehardt. Now, Simon is the one investing. The one listening. The one reminding young guys that they matter to God, and that His Word is enough. Simon shared, "180 had and still does have a huge role in shaping me into the man God wants me to be. 180 has been such a blessing to my life as Travis and my small group faithfully showed up to encourage and equip me to live out “every day boring faithfulness”. I’m beyond blessed to get to step back in and encourage the next generation of the church"
Simon is also part of FCC’s Residents Program, where he’s being equipped for future ministry, and he serves as the South Greene Tech Team coach—another place where his passion for discipleship and service is evident.
Simon’s story is a beautiful example of the vision behind 180: raising up students who will go on to lead and disciple others. Because when one generation faithfully invests in the next, that impact doesn’t end at graduation—it multiplies.
Through the “Lead Small” model—where students are placed in age and gender-specific groups led by caring Small Group Leaders—Simon experienced firsthand what it meant to be pursued, supported, and shaped by gospel-centered relationships. His leaders didn’t just guide him through study questions—they showed up in his life. They asked hard questions. They celebrated wins and walked through struggles. And most importantly, they pointed him to Jesus over and over again.
Simon graduated high school in 2023, but his story with 180 was far from over.
In 2024, he stepped back into the ministry—not as a student, but as a Small Group Leader for the 6th grade boys, serving faithfully each week alongside Bryan Englehardt. Now, Simon is the one investing. The one listening. The one reminding young guys that they matter to God, and that His Word is enough. Simon shared, "180 had and still does have a huge role in shaping me into the man God wants me to be. 180 has been such a blessing to my life as Travis and my small group faithfully showed up to encourage and equip me to live out “every day boring faithfulness”. I’m beyond blessed to get to step back in and encourage the next generation of the church"
Simon is also part of FCC’s Residents Program, where he’s being equipped for future ministry, and he serves as the South Greene Tech Team coach—another place where his passion for discipleship and service is evident.
Simon’s story is a beautiful example of the vision behind 180: raising up students who will go on to lead and disciple others. Because when one generation faithfully invests in the next, that impact doesn’t end at graduation—it multiplies.
