This week, the light shines brightly on a young man named JC Kroupa, whom the presence and knowledge of God seems to radiate from. Touching many people’s hearts and inspiring others to build their faith and relationship with God. I had the privilege to sit down and talk to this extraordinary young man and just from the hour I was there I walked out feeling so much hope and gratitude. He was able to answer all of the questions I had for him and I hope that they inspire you as much as they inspired me; I hope you get a sense of who this young man really is and what he stands for.
Brittney: What would you like to do after college and why?
JC: I want to be a pastor. My whole life I have been running from it. As I was growing up I wanted to be many different things; from 6-12 I wanted to paleontologist — I realized that was definitely not the job for me. Then from Eighth grade to sophomore year I wanted to be a vet, but realized that I did not like animals that much. Junior year I wanted to be a psychiatrist, which is something I will be minoring in. But one Sunday, I was at church when the voice of God spoke out to me and said “why can’t you do this too?” So I spent the next week praying & fasting, then the next Sunday when I went to church, God hit me with the Holy Spirit & confirmed that I was to preach the Gospel throughout the Earth.
Brittney: Who is your biggest inspiration? Why?
JC: I can’t just pick one inspiration, but they would have to include the following people. 1. Lecrae: He is an amazing Gospel artist who has inspired me and helped me through really tough times such as when I was bullied. I also really love what he stands for. 2. Dr. King: He is a man of God who would never back down from what he believed in. All he wanted was peace and I admire that. I really wish to emulate him.
“For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” Romans 1:16
Brittney: What are the names of the groups you have created? Why did you create them?
JC: The group that I am creating here on the GCU campus is called the Gospel Choir. We aim to perform possibly for The Gathering or at any other church events here on campus. I am also the president of The Gospel Of Christ Ministry, which is currently only in Milwaukee but I am trying to bring it out here to Phoenix. We aim to help and serve people with the Gospel. During the week we talk about the Word of God and on the weekend we go out and help in the community. For example, during the Milwaukee riots, we would go door to door and pray with those who needed it and wanted to.
“Saving lives by saving souls.”
Brittney: What would you like to accomplish at GCU & in life?
JC: At GCU I would just like to bring the campus closer to God in any way that I can. For example, through campus outreach. For life, I would really like to start my own church and build a community from that. I want my church to be a success and grow, I would like to create and do mission trips. But most importantly I want to help. I want to be able to take off my suit and tie and set my title of pastor down, put regular clothes on and be seen as a friend to them as well. I want to create a life of meaning. I am also currently creating a book called Mud And Fire, “Everything is mud or fire. What will you tell God at the end of your life.”
“I am a humble servant of God; if I am not impacting people then what am I really doing?”
Brittney: How will, or how do, you inspire others?
JC: I am very humble so I usually don’t think about how I inspire other people. But I try to urge people to follow God and to just be themselves. I encourage others and I really want them to realize that it is okay to make mistakes and that no matter what Jesus will still love you. I am also a mentor so I try and be there for them no matter what. Even just small things such as a simple text weekly to see how their week is can go a long way.
“ I am still gonna sin every day even though I am a mature Christian.”
Brittney: What is one word that would describe you?
JC: BOLD! I like to do things at 100 MPH!
Brittney: What is something that most people don’t know about you?
JC: I suffer from panic attacks when I get extremely stressed out. Also, I used to be bullied at school — actually JC is what they used to call me which stands for Jesus Christ.
“I took what they meant for bad and took it as good… I took it as a badge of honor.”
Brittney: What has been the most fulfilling thing you have been able to do?
JC: Gospel walks. The most important thing in life is the Gospel Of Christ. It makes me so happy to have the ability to help those around me, seeing people cry in joy. Leading people to God and touching people’s hearts is the most fulfilling thing ever.
Brittney: If you could change anything in this world what would it be and why?
JC: I would have to say totalitarian government. The reason I say this is I absolutely hate the way they treat their people but especially the way they treat Christians.
“We are all made in the image of God.”
Brittney: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the Word of God?
JC: LOVE! 1 John 4
Brittney: Okay last question, what is your favorite quote?
JC: Pessimism is for the godless.