John McMartin, born in Albury, NSW, as the youngest of seven, is the son of a pioneer of the first Pentecostal church between Sydney and Melbourne, which greatly impacted the Riverina region.
At age 10, John envisioned himself preaching to diverse audiences – a vision that has guided him throughout his life. He began an apprenticeship as a butcher at 15, later moving to Perth for three years before attending Faith Bible College in Tauranga, New Zealand, where he met his wife, Carol. After graduating, they served as assistant pastors at Manurewa AOG for two years before returning to Albury, where John became the assistant pastor in his father’s church.
Two years later, John and Carol were offered to lead a small church in South-West Sydney. Under their leadership, the congregation grew into a thriving mega-church, complete with a Bible college, community outreach programs, global missions, and six campuses.
John has served as an overseer of pastors and was the NSW State President for a decade until 2019, as well as on the ACC National Executive until 2018. His journey has included remarkable opportunities and growth.
After an unexpected end to his 38-year tenure as senior pastor, John entrusted his future to God. Three years later, he felt called to establish a new church in South-West Sydney, which began in March 2024. This new venture is already witnessing miraculous transformations in people’s lives.
John emphasises the importance of knowing God, finding freedom, discovering purpose, and influencing the world for Jesus, encouraging every follower to share their Good News story with reliance on the Holy Spirit.