Rev. Andrew Kinney, Senior Pastor
Rev. Andrew Kinney serves as the Senior Pastor of Sweetser Wesleyan Church. With a deep passion for preaching, discipleship, and pastoral care, Andrew is committed to helping people grow in their faith and experience the transforming love of Jesus.
Andrew felt called to ministry during his teenage years while attending camp, and that calling has guided his life ever since. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Youth Ministry from Indiana Wesleyan University and later completed his Master of Ministry from Wesley Seminary. His ministry experience spans over 15 years, including leadership in youth ministry and directing summer camps at Fairmount Camp, such as Kids Camp, Family Camp, and Teen Camp.
Andrew and his wife Jackie were married on August 8, 2008, and they love serving the local church together. Outside of ministry, Andrew is an avid fan of all things Michigan—cheering on University of Michigan football and basketball, as well as Detroit’s Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, and Pistons. He also enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, camping, and going on overnight backpacking trips whenever possible. Whether it’s exploring the woods or sitting by a campfire, he finds the beauty of God’s creation to be a place of rest and renewal.
His favorite Bible verse is Ecclesiastes 12:13:
"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”
Andrew felt called to ministry during his teenage years while attending camp, and that calling has guided his life ever since. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Youth Ministry from Indiana Wesleyan University and later completed his Master of Ministry from Wesley Seminary. His ministry experience spans over 15 years, including leadership in youth ministry and directing summer camps at Fairmount Camp, such as Kids Camp, Family Camp, and Teen Camp.
Andrew and his wife Jackie were married on August 8, 2008, and they love serving the local church together. Outside of ministry, Andrew is an avid fan of all things Michigan—cheering on University of Michigan football and basketball, as well as Detroit’s Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, and Pistons. He also enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, camping, and going on overnight backpacking trips whenever possible. Whether it’s exploring the woods or sitting by a campfire, he finds the beauty of God’s creation to be a place of rest and renewal.
His favorite Bible verse is Ecclesiastes 12:13:
"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”
Chase Cates, Youth Director
Hello! My name is Chase Cates. I am 19 years old and I am from Centerville, Indiana. I am currently attending Indiana Wesleyan University and majoring in Christian Ministries. After an amazing mission trip to South Dakota before my Junior year of high school the Lord opened my heart fully to Him and revealed the gift of teaching that He planned for me. Ever since then I have been blessed to be able to teach sports teams, clubs, and anyone who comes by about Jesus. Along with a future goal of being a pastor, I also have an interest in counseling and helping people work through internal struggles. I am grateful for this opportunity to lead the students at Sweetser and to grow together with them!
