Dr. Jason R. McConnell, M.Div., Th.M., D.Min., Director of Rural Church Institute

Dr. McConnell brings almost three decades of pastoral leadership, serving faithfully in rural congregations and championing the vitality of small-town churches. Before becoming Director of the Rural Church Institute, he served for 22 years as Senior Pastor of the East Franklin Union Church and Franklin United Church—a multisite ministry in the dairy farming community of Franklin, Vermont.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois; a Master of Divinity and Master of Theology from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary; and a Doctor of Ministry in Christian Preaching from Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, Alabama.

In addition to his pastoral ministry, Dr. McConnell invests deeply in academic and mentoring roles. He serves at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and with the Rural Home Missionary Association, equipping pastors and leaders to strengthen rural churches and extend the gospel into their communities. His appointment reflects a lifelong commitment to helping rural congregations flourish and fulfill their mission for Christ.

Beyond his ministry and teaching, Dr. McConnell treasures family life with his wife, Jennifer, and their four children—Sarah, Marcus, Duncan, and Matthias. He is also an avid learner and adventurer, finding joy in reading literature, listening to music, preparing gourmet meals, and exploring the outdoors through hiking, cycling, kayaking, fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing. His appreciation for the arts extends to frequent visits to museums, where he delights in engaging with creativity and culture.