Before becoming a pastor, Rob Mehner worked as a process engineer for 3M, designing, implementing, controlling and optimizing production processes. Now, he serves as the Director of Training and Pastoral Care at New Life Advance International in Guatemala, helping people become all God created them to be.
“I’m still a process engineer, but instead of making something like tape or glue, we’re making disciples, people who reflect the image of God to the world.”
Although Rob grew up in a Christian home, he ran from his calling to ministry after high school. But in his late 20s, he started experiencing more than just attending church. He got involved in a small group and developed a real relationship with Jesus. He again heard God’s call to ministry, and after wrestling with it for a year-and-a-half, he said yes.
He attended Asbury Seminary, raising two children and serving as a spiritual formation pastor of his church at the same time. After graduating in 2006, Rob continued to serve as a spiritual formation pastor, serving a total of 17 years at La Croix United Methodist Church in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and as Executive Pastor at Missionary Church USA in Indianapolis for two years.
While pastoring, Rob and Kristy developed a relationship with the leaders of New Life Children’s Home on the church’s annual mission trips to Guatemala. Two years ago, the home directors recruited the couple for roles that beautifully matched their gift sets and passions.
“We didn’t have to think about, ‘Does this make sense?’” Rob said. “We actually had to pray, ‘God, if there’s a reason we shouldn’t go, you should tell us quickly because we’re going to say yes.’ It felt so right.”