Youth Highlight

Jonathan Elijah Minor has been a member of the Word Church since 2009. He has played an active role in The Chosen Youth Ministry by participating in the youth choirs, step ministry, youth skits, and the youth greeter’s ministry.

Jonathan was also an active participant in the Concerned Black Men (CBM) program. CBM is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing positive male role models and mentors to youth. CBM’s President is another member of the Word Church Bro. Timothy Mallory.

Jonathan has excelled as a student athlete since elementary school, especially in wrestling. He was accepted into the Henrico High School Virtual Arts program. Jonathan has served in his community through volunteering, helping kids with art, wrestling, and being an encourager. While creating and presenting his artwork, Jonathan also made his mark on the wrestling mat.

He received notable recognition in wrestling, to include but not limited to,  ranked number 1 in the state, winning the Regional Championship, and finishing third in the State Championship in 2020. During his senior year, he competed in the 106-pound weight class, achieving an exceptional record of 30 wins and just 1 loss, and claimed five straight tournaments first place. He was widely regarded as one of the strongest competitors in his division.  He was spotlighted in the Richmond Times Dispatch newspaper.

Jonathan is described by his peers as smart, quiet, creative, resilient, and thoughtful. Jonathan is known for his willingness to assist in any capacity he can.

After graduating from Reynolds Community College with an associate’s degree in information technology, Jonathan continued his education at Old Dominion University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Cybersecurity in 2025. He also completed the globally recognized CompTIA Security+ professional certification in 2025.

Currently, Jonathan provides IT services for the church, and his first major accomplishment was developing the church’s website. Jonathan loves the Lord and has the Word in his heart. Jonathan looks forward to serving in the church even more and sharing his gifts and talents as they develop and how God will lead him.

Jonathan’s testimony is God’s hand is still on him, and he is resting in the Lord.

One of Jonathan's favorite scriptures:

Isaiah 41:10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.  Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.