Ara Veney

My name is Ara (sounds like Sarah, with no “S”) Veney and I am blessed to be one of the Youth Pastors here at Eagle Mountain International Church. My wife, Ashley, and I were married in 2006 and we have three wonderful children. We moved to Texas in 2016 and immediately became members of EMIC. In addition to family and faith, I love anything that involves making music, sports, and working with my hands.

I was born and raised in the Los Angeles, CA area and grew up in a God-fearing home with my parents and younger brother. I can’t remember a time when Jesus Christ wasn’t a part of my life and I was baptized, both in water and with speaking in tongues, at the age of 13. Both of my parents work in education, teaching and coaching, so when God called me to work with children, I was ready. I have worked in education for over 15 years as a classroom teacher, athletic coach, and program director. I attended Azusa Pacific University, a Christian college in Southern California, earning a bachelor’s degree in child development and a master’s degree in education. Prior to moving to Texas, I also served as the Worship Pastor for my local church and have written, produced, and recorded dozens of faith-filled music projects.

Although I loved teaching and working in schools, the Lord placed a strong desire for full-time ministry on my heart. My wife and I prayed for direction and the door opened with an opportunity to join the 14forty team. I am humbled, honored, and excited to combine my love for God with my love for teaching youth. Growing up, there were adults whose guidance made a major impact on my life, so it is my desire to sow those same seeds by doing what Proverbs 22: 6 commands, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

I serve as a Youth Pastor in 14forty, disciplining our students in the Word and teaching our youth the uncommon faith that will lead them to a victorious life, every minute, of everyday. I also volunteer as a singer on the church praise team and choir. My wife, Ashley, works for the ministry as a Project Coordinator for EMIC Events and will be assisting me in leading and mentoring our 14forty students.