JD Calkin

Executive Pastor

I grew up in a military family in what I would call a culturally Christian home. The only thing missing was a relationship with Jesus; however my parents renewed their love relationship with Jesus while I was in elementary school.  Their growing faith and tenderness toward Jesus had a profound impact on me and I trusted Christ as my Savior in July 1979 in a friend’s bathroom.  Pull me aside sometime and get the details.

After attending High school in Northern Virginia, I earned my BS in Business from Radford University. After Radford I spent time in the United States Army as a Chemical Officer.  While in the military I sensed God’s call into full time ministry and resigned my commission and attended Trinity Evangelical Divinity School where I graduated with my Masters degree. I’ve served churches in Kansas, Illinois, and Virginia Beach. God’s allowed me to serve as a Student Ministry Pastor, Small Groups Pastor, and an Executive Pastor.

What’s my favorite place to live in all my travels?  I spent 6.5 years in Hawaii – that tops my list. If you catch me with a far off stare and a smile on my face, I’m probably traveling back to paradise for a visit. Virginia Beach is a close second!

Staci and I met on a blind date and were married about 20 months later. We have 3 great kids: Joey, Ellie, and Kaitlyn.  In our free time we like to sleep!  In addition to all her responsibilities as a wife and mother, Staci is the Virginia Beach Area Representative for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

I love (in no particular order) waterskiing, Chicago style pizza, being on the water, spending time with my family, and the Chicago Bears.