Virtuous reality

John Coen is a visionary artist and storyteller who has dedicated over 30 years using creativity to share the Gospel. In 1993, he began serving as the Creative Ministries Director at Lancaster First United Methodist Church. He began shaping Virtuous Reality into what would become a nationally and internationally recognized blacklight puppet ministry. He created The Good News Clown Crew, The Magic of Believe, and many other numerous highly renowned community events—including Eggstravaganza, Party Gras, an annual Halloween carnival, Santa Land, and the life-size Fontanini Walkthrough Memorial Nativity Display.

In 2025, Virtuous Reality became its own nonprofit organization, continuing John’s mission of bringing faith to life through innovative and unforgettable performances. Beyond Virtuous Reality, John has a background in special effects and props, having worked under Stan Winston on films like Edward Scissorhands and Predator 2. He sang in the Gospel group Pure in Heart and currently sings with Grace 4 Faith.

With a one-of-a-kind creative vision, John continues to inspire, entertain, and bring light into the world through his artistry and faith-driven productions.