Name: Lance Langenberg
Graduation Year: EU 2018, AGTS 2019
Major: BS in Church Ministries, Master of Leadership and Ministry
Current Position: Lead Pastor-First Assembly of God
City and State: Rolla, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
I entered full-time ministry in 2017 when I was hired by my home church to launch our first multi-site campus. After two years as the Campus Pastor, I transitioned to Rolla First Assembly of God as their Connections Pastor. I served in that role until our Lead Pastor retired in March of 2020. At that time, I stepped into the Interim Pastor role as the board of deacons worked to plot the path forward. Through the leading of the Holy Spirit and the grace of God, the church voted to receive me as their Lead Pastor in July of 2020. I now have the opportunity to serve in a thriving, multigenerational, established church which has been in the same location for 86 years. I am humbled and honored to pastor this church and look forward to what God has in mind for this new chapter of ministry.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
My entire academic career at Evangel was online. So, I don’t have a lot of memories on campus. That said, my favorite memory was graduation day. Walking across that stage was a huge moment in my life. I dropped out of high school at 15 years old. So, completing my college degree and receiving a diploma at 30 years old was extremely gratifying. I’ll never forget that day.
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
The coursework at Evangel forced me grapple with introspective questions I had never asked myself before. I was able to walk away with a deeper understanding of my faith and my relationship with Christ. My time at Evangel was pivotal in solidifying my understanding of the Gospel and giving me the tools I rely on every day to lead my church.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
Evangel helped me to learn about a few pitfalls in pastoral ministry I needed to look out for and how to deal with them.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Complete your work on time. Pay attention to the details of every assignment and turn in a product you can be proud of. Two of the greatest skills you can learn in school is how to follow instructions and listen to those in authority over you. Both of those are invaluable skills in the work force—all of us have authority over us, no matter our position. Show up on time, turn in your work before it’s due, and again, pay attention to the details of your assignments. No matter how much you like or dislike a particular class, if you can learn those three things, you’ll be better off for your future.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
A deep love for the Lord and a respect for God’s Word. Additionally, I would look for a teachable spirit and someone who can show up on time with a good attitude. As someone who has already hired an EU grad, I am proud to say she walked onto our staff with those exact qualities and has proved to be an invaluable member of our team and church.