Calvary's Leaders
Jacob Ravenscraft
What do you do at Calvary?
I lead the 4th-6th Grade ministry called FUEL. With the indispensable contributions of interns and volunteer leaders, together, we seek to provide an environment for the 4th, 5th, and 6th Graders of FUEL to connect with God, each other, and their leaders, in order for them to grow in their relationship with God, so that they will reach the communities around them and the world for Jesus Christ. There are many tasks behind the scenes, but our team finds it our responsibility to provide a safe, comfortable, and creative environment for these kids to be challenged in their faith.
How did you come to Calvary and how long have you been here?
I was led to Calvary by a Talbot Job Placement post online through Talbot School of Theology’s website. I have been here since June 1st 2011.
What is your educational background and training?
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Biblical & Theological Studies at Biola University. I am currently working on my Master of Arts in Theology at Talbot School of Theology.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Anniston, Alabama (2 hours south of Nashville). I was raised in Lombard, IL a western suburb of Chicago.
Tell us about your family...
I have two incredible parents Stephen & Lee Ravenscraft. My father is an incredibly talented graphic designer. He works at Loyola University Chicago as well as maintains his own freelance business. My mother works as a crossing guard & The Fruitful Yield, a health foods store. She is an all-star mom who home-schooled my little sister, and has one of the biggest servant’s hearts I’ve ever encountered. My brother, Matt, is a full-time Spanish teacher at New Trier High School in Northfield, IL. He is also the Head JV Soccer Coach and lives in Evanston, IL with his wife Hailey who works as a full-time Instructional Aid tutoring students who have been out for long absences catch up to speed. Lastly, I have a sister in high school who is an aspiring soccer athlete, worship team volunteer at church, and a top-class student.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Calvary Church?
Worshipping together at the 6th Grade Bonfire, while surrounded by numerous strangers in Huntington. It was such a neat time of corporate worship, right next to the ocean, among many people who did know Jesus. A great memory!
Who have been the biggest spiritual influencers in your life?
My parents (Stephen & Lee), my brother (Matt), Pastor Dave Monreal, Pastor Bruce Sperling, Pastor Glenn Westburg, Nate Greene (best friend), Professor Matthew Williams, Professor Jonathon Lunde, Professor Erik Thoennes, Professor Jon Rittenhouse, and Pastor Francis Chan.
Favorite place you’ve been in the world and where do you want to go next?
I have yet to be out outside North America, and so, thus far I’ve enjoyed the East Bayside of San Francisco and Idyllwild/Pine-Cove Area, which east of Riverside. I hope my next trip will be to Spain!
When I can't be found at Calvary, I can be found...
Playing soccer, playing any sport, at the beach attempting to surf, at Talbot taking classes, at Starbucks reading, at the lake, or working out.
Hidden Talent?
I give haircuts. I taught myself in 2009 because I didn’t want to pay anyone to cut my own hair anymore, and once people started paying me, I realized I could make some money off it.
What do you count as the greatest invention of the last 100 years?
iPhone/iPad
On what reality show would you most want to be a contestant?
So You Think You Can Dance.