Introducing Pastor Kyle Yates
Rev. Kyle Yates comes to us from Brookville, PA and starts ministry at Staunton First Church of God on January 16, 2022. Previously, Rev. Yates pastored at Scotland Ave Church of God in Punxsutawney, PA for eight years. Prior to that, Kyle ecumenically pastored two Free Methodist Churches in Western Pennsylvania for two years.
Rev. Yates was saved at the age of four, and begin to follow God at an early age. His parents, Doug and Crystal Yates were highly involved at the Brookville First Church of God. Kyle grew up in the Brookville Church going on Mission Trips, Youth Conventions, Church Plays, and various leadership roles before he felt the Lord’s call upon his life to enter full time ministry. Knowing he needed a more solid Theological base, he enrolled at Warner Southern College (now Warner University). He majored in Church Ministry and graduated at the top of his class in 2009. Still feeling the need for more edification in the Bible and Pastoral ministry, he furthered his education at Anderson University School of Theology.
In 2018, Kyle married Kylie Krise of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. They met when he begun pastoring at Scotland Ave Church of God. Kyle asked Kylie to help lead in some Children and Youth Ministries, and developed a friendship through carnival and amusement rides. Ironically, in December 2014, they both received jury duty for the same court case. On the day of roll-call, the case was handled out of court and they, in-turn, took a date to Pittsburgh, PA. Within 11 months Kyle proposed to Kylie at the Scotland Ave Church of God altar hours before the candle-light Christmas Eve Service. About 20 months into marriage, and a day short of their 5 year Pittsburgh date anniversary, Kylie gave birth to Kaleb Douglas Yates. Their household also includes one French Bulldog, Leia and one grey long-haired cat, Olaf.
In addition to Ministry, Kyle has a passion for Film and Photography. At Warner University he was recognized for his photography work, and decided to make it part of his Minor. From his freshman dorm room, he created Room 28 Ministries as a platform for his early film work. While at Anderson University, he worked with Bishop Adrian Holmes to film and produce a short film based on the Bell’s Chapel Fire. In 2011, he began to offering professional photography services, and has since won many awards, showcased in galleries around the United States, and was named Artist of the Year in Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What Bible Translation do you like?
A: I like studying out of the New American Standard Bible. When studying Greek in my under-grad, I found it to be the closest translation, word for word, from the Greek. However, when I preach I use the New Living Translation for it’s readability and modern units of measure.
Q: What is your favorite verse?
A: Hebrews 12:1-3NIV
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
I enjoy this scripture because it gives us a clear goal and the process on how to get there, with hope and inspiration from our very source. I have lived this scripture out and I have it on the back of my Father’s tombstone.
Q: What is your goal in ministry?
A: To glorify God and to bring as many people as I can with me to heaven.
Q: Favorite Ministry Book(s)?
A: The Sacred Romance (John Eldredge), Letters to the Church (Francis Chan), Fresh Wind Fresh Fire (Jim Cymbala), The Pursuit of God (A.W. Tozer)
Q: Favorite Camera?
A: Canon Cameras, DJI Drones
Q: Favorite Soft Drink?
A: A tie between Pepsi and Ale 8-1 (soft drink ginger ale from Kentucky)
Q: Favorite Pass-times or Hobbies?
A: I love playing with my son! He’s only two right now, but I enjoy watching him learn and problem solve as he grows! I also like to Hunt Whitetail Deer and other wildlife. When it’s not hunting season, I like to harvest and eat wild mushrooms. Photography used to be a hobby but it turned more into a second job, yet I still find joy in it!