outh Ministry majorAssociate Director of Student Discipleship, Chapelwood United Methodist Church
Ethan Mayo ’21, a youth ministry major, is an Associate Director of Student Discipleship (youth pastor) at Chapelwood United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas.
Mayo was born in Nairobi, Kenya, and grew up in Kampala, Uganda until he moved to America to attend Asbury. During his high school years, his plan was to obtain an engineering undergraduate degree and play soccer, until an 11th grade basketball trip to Ethiopia changed Mayo’s perspective.
“God flipped my priorities from my selfish plan to His way, pursuing ministry, and it ultimately led me to attend Asbury,” said Mayo.
Needing an internship, the Asbury alum was presented with a position at a United Methodist Church in Houston.
“I expected to go straight into seminary or leave the Country, but through honestly praying and consulting key figures in my life, I felt God leading me to stay in Houston,” said Mayo. “From there I decided to join the staff at Chapelwood.”
Mayo was offered multiple positions but took a job working with the younger generation.
“I absolutely believe that youths are leaders and world-changers, both inside and outside the church,” he said. “They not only have potential but key insights to offer now. So that is part of my passion to develop current leaders and disciple youth.”
Mayo expanded on how Asbury’s Christian Studies program and professors impacted his vocational knowledge and passion.
“The Asbury Youth Ministry degree equips and empowers you not only to succeed but to be miles ahead of your vocational peers,” expressed Mayo. “I have to thank and recognize Dr. Hull. The way he approaches Youth Ministry from an intercultural perspective develops students who think differently and help change ministries for the better.”
Mayo advised students and young alumni to build community with those around them to help their spiritual and vocational walks.
“Realize that life outside of Asbury will look very different,” Mayo said. “Maybe it’s fewer friends, a bad job or major transitions. Continually seek mentors that can help you walk in life and in your profession.”