A Story of Vision, Leadership, and Open Eyes

Chad Mynatt’s journey into ministry began with a moment that changed how he saw the world.

Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chad grew up in a family where faith and community were central parts of everyday life. His parents placed a strong emphasis on pursuing a relationship with the Lord and surrounding themselves with a community of believers. Alongside his immediate family, Chad was deeply influenced by an extended family that had, in many ways, “adopted” them. At the center of that circle was his Granna, whose example helped shape how he viewed the world—always reminding him that life is bigger than ourselves.

A Trip That Changed Everything

At eighteen years old, Chad traveled to the Dominican Republic on a mission trip. Before that experience, he describes his perspective as narrow and focused mostly on himself. But during that trip, something shifted.

Through time spent with missionaries and the Dominican community, God began opening his eyes to a much larger picture. Chad fell in love with the country, the people, and the work God was doing there. That single trip redirected the course of his life and planted a calling that would continue to grow in the years ahead.

Seasons of Ministry

Chad eventually spent six years living in the Dominican Republic, serving with Manna Christian School. During that time he invested deeply in the lives of students, teaching and discipling young leaders while building relationships that would last far beyond the classroom.

Today, Chad serves as an Executive Director with Manna Global Missions, helping guide the organization’s vision and growth. His role focuses on leading the team to faithfully pursue the work God is setting before them.

A significant part of his current work includes directing the Manna Business Collective, an initiative designed to support entrepreneurs around the world who use their businesses as platforms for discipleship. Through this work, Chad hopes to see people encounter Jesus through everyday spaces like workplaces and marketplaces.

He also oversees Manna’s ministry expansion throughout Central America. One of the current priorities is strengthening and growing the team in the region, particularly in Costa Rica, where the ministry is seeking partners and local leaders to help plant and grow the church.

A Heart for Communities

Closer to home, Chad is grateful for the work happening in Cookeville through El Puente, the Hispanic Community Center connected to Manna’s ministry. In a season that can be challenging for many Hispanic families in the United States, El Puente serves as a place of dignity, support, and spiritual growth. Chad values the way it walks alongside families as they navigate cross-cultural life while deepening their relationship with the Lord.

For the broader Manna community, his prayer is simple: that the ministry would remain Spirit-led and willing to follow wherever God chooses to lead.

Stories That Shape Faith

Chad has long loved reading, and several books have had a lasting impact on him. One of the first books that truly captured his imagination was The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis, which offers a powerful reminder of the spiritual battle believers face while highlighting God’s persistent grace.

He also appreciates stories that reveal the deeper connections between people, such as Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven. Another favorite is Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand, a remarkable account of perseverance and resilience.

Among the many stories in Scripture, one that holds special meaning for Chad is the account of Jesus healing Jairus’ daughter. While he always believed in miracles, witnessing one within his own family gave that story an even deeper significance. The words Jesus speaks in that moment—“Talitha cumi,” meaning “Little girl, arise”—serve as a powerful reminder that God is still at work in miraculous ways.

Moments That Stay With You

When reflecting on the most meaningful moments in ministry, two stand out clearly for Chad. One was the privilege of baptizing four of his students from Manna Christian School—an experience that symbolized years of investment, discipleship, and spiritual growth.

Another was the opening of El Puente. Watching the center become a place where people receive support, connection, and encouragement each day has been deeply meaningful.

The Power of a First Step

Mission teams also hold special significance for Chad. After all, a team trip was what first introduced him to the mission field and helped shape the direction of his life. Because of that, he loves watching others experience similar moments—seeing how stepping into a new place and culture can expand perspectives and awaken new callings.

For Chad, those moments often become the beginning of something much bigger than anyone expects.

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With Gratitude

Thank you Chad—for your leadership, vision, and dedication to seeing the Kingdom of God grow through discipleship, business, and global partnerships. We are grateful for the way you continue to move the mission forward.
— Manna Global Missions Team