Pastor Jon was born in Chicago and raised in Philadelphia Pa. Growing up, he spent most of his teens in and out of juvenile detention centers and tried not to get killed in the streets. At the age of 19 he found himself in prison for his role in a shooting that left a young man dead. It was in his prison cell that he received a copy of God's Word and began reading. After reading from Matthew to Hebrews, Jon's eyes were opened. He was immediately gripped by his sin and his need for salvation in Christ. He gave his life to Christ in his prison cell. 

Expecting to spend the rest of his life in prison, Jon was shown mercy and received a 6-20 year sentence. After serving 6 years, Jon was released and began attending Christian Stronghold Baptist Church in West Philadelphia. It was there that he met his wife and best friend, Danielle, while serving in youth ministry. In 2011 Jon moved to Chicago to attend Moody Bible Institute where he studied Systematic Theology. He served as a Family Pastor at Harvest Bible Chapel in downtown Chicago prior to becoming the Lead Pastor of Chicago West Bible Church. Currently, Pastor Jon is earning his Masters Degree in Biblical Studies at Wheaton Grad School. He also serves with Prison Fellowship in the role of Justice Advocacy and speaks nationally for their Speakers Bureau. He has been married to his wife Danielle for 8 years and they have 2 boys: Benjamin and Judah.

Email: jkelly@chiwestbiblechurch.org | Facebook  |  Twitter |  Instagram