PALMER CHINCHEN, PHD
Palmer Chinchen grew up in the heart of the Sappo jungle in Liberia, West Africa, where his early years were shaped by a deep awareness of global need and a strong sense of purpose. With no roads in or out—only a prop plane—his childhood laid the foundation for a life devoted to global ministry, justice, and spiritual transformation.
After moving to the United States, Palmer served in college ministry for many years in Wheaton, Illinois and Southern California, walking alongside young adults as they explored faith, calling, and service. He holds a PhD from Trinity International University, along with MA and BA degrees from Biola University.
Today, Palmer serves as the Lead Pastor of The Grove, a vibrant church in the Phoenix area that has grown into one of the largest churches in Arizona. The Grove is known for its creative, outward-focused mission and bold initiatives to serve people in need around the world—like “Barefoot Sunday,” when hundreds of church members walked barefoot to their cars in Arizona’s 100+ degree heat, leaving behind thousands of shoes to send to Africa.
In 2019, Palmer launched Justice University—a Christ-centered institution committed to shaping future leaders in ministry, education, business, and global justice. Since its founding, Justice University has grown into a nationally accredited university, offering students a rigorous academic experience rooted in purpose and mission.
Palmer is a passionate advocate for justice and regularly travels to countries like Haiti, Cuba, and throughout the African continent to help bring healing to broken communities. He speaks widely on global justice, faith in action, and the transforming power of giving one's life away.
In addition to his pastoral and academic leadership, Palmer is a respected author whose books have inspired readers across the globe. His published works include True Religion, God Can't Sleep, The Barefoot Tribe, and Justice Calling. Each of these titles challenges readers to reject complacency and embrace a faith that actively pursues justice, compassion, and transformation. His books have sold tens of thousands of copies and have been featured by major Christian publishers, making a significant impact in churches, small groups, and university classrooms alike. Through his writing, Palmer continues to call this generation to a bold and sacrificial life of following Jesus.
