Queen Creek Hometown Hero for January: Eric Ehmann, Spiritual Leader

This month’s Hometown Hero is Eric Ehmann, community pastor for the Central Christian Church in Queen Creek. For Ehmann, who began at Central Christian Church in 2016, church is more than a house of worship. He sees it as vital to building a community.

Among his many duties as pastor, Ehmann says his work also includes developing leaders within and outside of his church, spending time building community partnerships and building up men in the community.

Ehmann first moved to Arizona when he was five and grew up in Scottsdale. Today, his parents live just 15 miles outside on Queen Creek, a community he loves. He says the town creates a welcoming environment for the public.

There’s more to learn about Ehmann below;

 Name: Eric Ehmann

Age: 50

Business Name: Central Christian Church

Town/neighborhood: Augusta Ranch

When and why I moved here: I took a role as campus pastor for my church in September of 2018.

What I like most about living here: I love the way this community creates a welcoming and engaging environment. People want to connect and be a part of a community that is full of life. There is an overall desire I see in every aspect to build a better environment for all.

What I do: As a pastor at my church, I do many things but focus on three main areas. Developing leaders in and outside of my church is one of my top priorities. I spend time building partnerships with groups like the parks department, local government and schools. I also invest in developing and building up men in our community.

Personal background highlights: I have a brother and sister and I am not married. Both parents live within 15 miles of Queen Creek, and I get to see them regularly. I moved to Arizona when I was 5 and grew up in Scottsdale, graduating from Saguaro High School. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a bachelors and received my MA degree from Western International University.

Professional background highlights: I began in Christian ministry at 19 as a student pastor. Serving at a couple of churches in the Phoenix area, I have also worked for Arizona State Emergency Management and a global hunger organization (Rise Against Hunger). I lived just outside of Austin, Texas for a couple of years while working at a church there. I began working at Central Christian Church in 2016.

What I like most about what I do: Developing leaders and community. I believe a church is much more than a house of worship. It is a vital part of building a strong community for those who attend, as well as for those who don’t.

What does being nominated for this category mean to you? It is an honor and unexpected. I am very encouraged that people in our community lift others up and validate their efforts and contributions.

What does it mean to be a Queen Creek resident? I genuinely enjoy this community. There are so many ways to get connected. There is no wonder why so many are moving to the area.

What do you think you bring to the local community that makes it better? I truly desire to build a strong community. Partnering with other organizations to build a legacy that lasts is good for everyone in the area. I believe the people I lead and serve will contribute to the good for all.

What would you tell people about why it's important to make a difference in Queen Creek? I believe Queen Creek is in a pivotal time. There is so much change and so many people moving in. Now is the time we can all build foundations and a culture that will last and one that will matter to the future.

Changes I'd like to see in this area: I am excited about community organizations coming together for the common good. I would like to see us all work together to improve the area and remove the burden of social services from the government.

Favorite community cause & why: Investing in young people. They have strength and wisdom we should not overlook. Strong young people make for a strong future.

My family: Just me

My interests and hobbies: Formula One racing, sports-car racing, cool cars and motorcycles. I have spent the last three years remodeling my home. I love adventure and travel.

The trait(s) I admire in others: Honesty, empathy, kindness and good communication

People who inspired me (and how): Teddy Roosevelt – great leader who took risks. 

Nelson Mandela – He was a man who held to his convictions under extreme adversity. Yet, when he achieved power, he showed grace and desire to unify a nation.

Erwin McManus – A pastor in LA. He showed me that the hope Jesus offers is more than just for church people on Sundays. Jesus offers a rich life of purpose, value and inspiration.

My guiding philosophy: Elevate others and everyone gets better while accomplishing more.

My advice to today’s youth: Look further down the road to where you want to be and not just where you are now. You have a lot of life left. Invest in your future financially, relationally and spiritually.  Sacrifice now so your future can be stronger. Save money, get out of toxic relationships and know that God is real and he is for you.