As the Pastor to Middle School Ministry here at Old North Church, my primary responsibilities involve shepherding the students and families within that realm. This includes preaching and teaching the Bible, vision casting, leading and working with student volunteers, and helping everyone gaze at our Great Shepherd. I love seeing the Lord grab ahold of young, student hearts as they passionately share about their faith with others. I enjoy working with the middle school age because of the critical time of life they are in. This period of my life included several defining and challenging moments, which feeds my desire to come alongside those that are also struggling through this time in their life. I am passionate about helping students own their faith instead of renting it from their parents. I see student ministry as a family ministry, where the entire family is involved in raising and discipling the next generation.

I previously served at Grace Church of Greater Akron where I earned my education and training at Moody Bible Institute (B.A. in Biblical Studies) and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (M.A. in Theological Studies). I am married to Grace, and we have two children: Liliana and Jedidiah. I enjoy being outside, playing disc golf and spike ball, and spending time with family. If you’d like to contact Pastor Josiah, please email him or call the church office. jrios@oldnorthchurch.org | 330.533.6848 x230