More about Johannes J. Christian

The Rev. Dr. Johannes J. Christian became totally blind in 2001

when a troubled young man threw a seven pound-rock from an overpass onto Interstate 70 in Clark County, Ohio. The small boulder smashed into Dr. Christian’s vehicle, crushing his skull. 

The incident was nearly fatal, and recovery took over two years. Despite this, Dr. Christian found within himself the personal conviction to forgive the young man who destroyed his eyes and almost took his life. “I had to forgive that young boy; it was the only way I could move on,” said Dr. Christian, who then went on to develop a passion and tenacity to nullify bullying behaviors in our communities with a particular emphasis on young people. The anti-bullying program in particular has gained much momentum, with forgiveness as it's central focus. 

Dr. Christian is the founding Pastor of The Adoration and Peace Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio, where he serves as Pastor Emeritus. Face of Forgiveness LLC grew out of his ministry there, which includes Anti-Bullying and Non-Violence.  He dedicates his energies to the furthering of Forgiveness, Reconciliation and Unity.

Retired in 2023 from his position as Executive Director of the Mid-Ohio Board for Independent Living Environment (MOBILE), Dr. Christian makes appearances on radio talk shows as well as podcasts and live television programs.  Dr. Christian is the author of three books: Face of Forgiveness, A Memoir; The Power that is Within You, Anti-Bully Affirmations; and He’s in the House, a book that takes a look at parenting. All three books are available on Amazon.com .

Today Dr. Christian has taken up the challenge of painting.  He says it is therapeutic for him and he enjoys the fanfare that he receives from appreciative viewers.  He invites you to take a look at his art pieces on this website, and consider what life is like from a blind perspective.

To get in touch with Dr. Christian for public appearances, please call: +1 (614) 253-7385.

How Dr. Christian creates his art