John L. Hessel was born and raised in Alton, IL. Married to Brenda (Dunn) in 1967, and they have three grown daughters—DaNae, Becky, and Kathy.

He has a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Oklahoma Baptist University, a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Theological Seminary, as well as Doctor of Ministry studies at Southwestern.

John L. Hessel has been in full time Christian ministry for 40 years. He most recently pastored Rockwood Baptist Church and South County Baptist Church in St. Louis, Missouri. He has also pastored churches in Oklahoma, Texas, and Illinois.

From 1985-1995, he also served as a vice president of the Stewardship Commission, SBC, conducting 150 capital fund raising campaigns all across the nation.

John L. Hessel currently serves on the Board of Trustees of Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis, Missouri, and as assistant moderator of St. Louis Metro Baptist Association.