Pastor

Rev. John Cochran

Senior Pastor

The Shalom of God be with you!

I graduated from Texas A&I University in 1993. I am a double major with degrees in Animal Science and Agriculture Education. I was in public education for 25 years. My first teaching assignment was in San Diego Texas where I was hired to teach freshman physics and chemistry. The following year I was asked to teach high school Biology. My third-year teaching in San Diego was when I was asked to teach Agriculture Science. I finally was able to teach in my field of study.

I spent four years in San Diego when I was offered a position to teach Ag Science at Riviera ISD where I spent the next 14 years. I had a very successful program when Tuloso-Midway called and offered me a chance to build an Ag Mechanics program. Concentrating on welding and engineering.

I felt God’s call to ministry in 2011 while I was attending an Emmaus Walk. I answered that call in 2015 and served as Associate Pastor for First United Methodist Church Kingsville. My stay at Kingsville was short lived as God called me to be the Senior Pastor for Skidmore UMC. This appointment was perfect. It allowed me to serve God while still teaching at Tuloso-Midway. However, after one year at Skidmore the Bishop called me and asked if I would consider a full-time position at George West First United Methodist Church. I served there for five years leading me to my current appointment with St. John’s.

My lovely wife Cassandra and I are proud of our blended family. We share 5 beautiful children; three daughters and two sons. Rebekah (Jeremy) Garcia, Miranda (Jordan) Martin, Megan Cochran, Jack Cochran, and Jake Cochran. And I am the proud “Pop” of three grandsons with a fourth on the way. I welcome questions about our children and look forward to answering those questions. However, Jack will be serving Point Comfort and Lolita UM churches. This is his first appointment. He will be filling the pulpit as a supply pastor and has plans to attend Licensing School and Seminary.

I love anything outdoors. I love fishing, golfing, surfing, swimming, motorcycling, retreats. But most of my relaxation comes from refinishing, rebuilding antique furniture. I find such serenity bringing something back to life that has been discarded.

I was brought into this world on September 19, 1960 in Floresville Texas. I joined the US Navy in December 26, 1979 where I served for six years as a Hospital Corpsman. I have been half way around the world; as far East before turning into the West. And as far North where it was 64 degrees below zero on a bright sunny day. I have snowed skied in the Swiss Alps, swam off the coast of Nicaragua and Puerto Rico, and played tag with a Russian Destroyer. But my life has never been as full as it is now serving you, here at St. John’s Methodist Church.

God’s Peace and Love to each

Pastor John