Matt Messner is a pastor, teacher, coach, and an outdoors enthusiast. For many years Matt ran at an elite level as a distance runner, competing in the Olympic Trials in the marathon in 1996 and 2000. He enjoys all types of outdoor activities, especially surfing. Matt earned his B.A. at LIFE Pacific College, an M.A. from Fuller Theological Seminary and a D.Min. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (Leadership Skills for the 21st Century). Matt met his best friend and partner in ministry, Heidi Wilson Messner, while at LIFE Pacific College and they have been married for 33 years. Matt has published three books (Ascend, Friendship Leadership, and Advent Encounter) and loves coaching leaders.