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State: Oregon
Region: Northwest
Name: Dave Mendenhall
Church: Church On The Hill
Address of Church: 700 NW Hill Road
City: McMinnv ille, Oregon
Contact Info:
Phone: 503-883-7067
Mailing Address: PO Box 1319
McMinnville, OR 97128
Email: crstaterep@oregon.com
Personal Profile: Dave was born in McMinnville, October 31st 1962 and has lived locally 42 out of the last 44 years in the Willamette Valley.
His company, Bus Solutions, provides a number of valuation and marketing services for the bus, motor coach, school, transit, shuttle bus and limousine industries, and employs many folks who are in recovery.
Family, hobbies, etc:
Dave lives in McMinnville, OR with his son Joshua and two Labrador retrievers Jake & Gus. He enjoys fly fishing and entertaining folks at his home.
Celebrate Recovery Experience:
Dave was one of the founders of the McMinnville CR in March of 2002. He has served as the Ministry Leader since 2003 and has served as the state rep for Oregon since December of 2004.
Personal Recovery: Dave has been in recovery from sexual addiction since 1998.
CR Trainings attended or hosted:
Summits 2004, 2005. 2006 and 2007
One day Seminar in Vancouver, WA November 2004
One day Training, Newberg, OR February 2005
One day Seminar in Boise, ID June 2005
One Day Seminar in McMinnville, OR March 2006
One Day Seminar in Duluth, GA April 2006
One Day Seminar in Seattle, WA, Sept 2006
One Day Seminar, Boise, ID, June 2007
Various Networking events
Showing posts with label Staff Bios. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Staff Bios. Show all posts
Terri Sharp
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Hi my name is Terri Sharp. I was born in Anaheim, CA but raised in Napa Valley, CA. I attended Vintage High School graduating in 1986. During my high school years I was part of a state wide technical program in the Commercial Art Field. This was a program that led me to believe that my career would be in the art field. But…. later I went on to major in Interpreting for the Deaf in college. (How is that for a weird path?) I loved school and now have a passion for encouraging others to return back to college. I have learned through life’s experiences how to fan the flame and pass it on to others. Looking back on my years of growing up I can clearly see several people of influence and assistance that God placed in my life.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
My life has been blessed by the Lord providing me the opportunity to be involved with the following ministries: Blended Family Ministries, Outreach Ministries, Women’s Ministries, Mission Fair and most recently the Link to Serve Ministry. I did not arrive at COTH with a Nazarene background. I was raised Catholic. Believe it or not when I was little I thought I was going to grow up and become a nun. (Some of you are laughing!!) Well to make a long story short I did not become a nun. In fact I really count my walk with the Lord late in life. Through the years I have had to learn a great deal about life and God’s incredible grace. My professional background includes working with many types of people in various settings and meeting a need. This was a passion that I learned to love early on as an interpreter. One of my treasured memories was being assigned to interpret for a Deaf/Blind client for an art class. I believe that that the Holy Spirit was grooming me for bigger and better things. God’s way not mine!! Duh!! Took me a little while to figure this out though!
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Over the years I have experienced SO many different things. I am a daughter, sister, mother and wife.
I have chosen to take these moments of “Real Life” and encourage other woman to step up in various ministries.
If I can be used by the Lord as a voice of encouragement, a leader for woman’s ministries, a support for their heart, and a worker for His Kingdom…. I am so there!! Reflecting on my life I have been SO blessed to witness, as well as experience, strong, perfectly balanced Godly woman stand up and take small steps to change the world and lead others to a personal relationship with Christ.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
My passion is witnessing something “broken” and seeing the transformation into all that God intended her/him to be. Loving on what others may call the unloved, the unchurched and the unaccepted. Gang it doesn’t get any better than that!! After all we have ALL been those things at one time in our lives. My personal passion is to be used by Christ to pass on His miraculous love & His purpose. Bringing hope to others as well as encouragement through God’s promises is what it’s all about. Provide practical leadership skills that will facilitate, celebrate, encourage and even spark women to serve in various ministry roles at COTH.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
Yes if it is God’s purpose and God’s will! I will forever “seek”, “listen” and “walk” for the Lord. Everyday is a God given opportunity to be a woman of influence, and encouragement in someone’s life. Helping them discover and become all that God destined for them to be. My life will always be full of alacrity, dedication and a longing to teach others about Christ. I owe it ALL to Him!!
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Hi my name is Terri Sharp. I was born in Anaheim, CA but raised in Napa Valley, CA. I attended Vintage High School graduating in 1986. During my high school years I was part of a state wide technical program in the Commercial Art Field. This was a program that led me to believe that my career would be in the art field. But…. later I went on to major in Interpreting for the Deaf in college. (How is that for a weird path?) I loved school and now have a passion for encouraging others to return back to college. I have learned through life’s experiences how to fan the flame and pass it on to others. Looking back on my years of growing up I can clearly see several people of influence and assistance that God placed in my life.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
My life has been blessed by the Lord providing me the opportunity to be involved with the following ministries: Blended Family Ministries, Outreach Ministries, Women’s Ministries, Mission Fair and most recently the Link to Serve Ministry. I did not arrive at COTH with a Nazarene background. I was raised Catholic. Believe it or not when I was little I thought I was going to grow up and become a nun. (Some of you are laughing!!) Well to make a long story short I did not become a nun. In fact I really count my walk with the Lord late in life. Through the years I have had to learn a great deal about life and God’s incredible grace. My professional background includes working with many types of people in various settings and meeting a need. This was a passion that I learned to love early on as an interpreter. One of my treasured memories was being assigned to interpret for a Deaf/Blind client for an art class. I believe that that the Holy Spirit was grooming me for bigger and better things. God’s way not mine!! Duh!! Took me a little while to figure this out though!
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Over the years I have experienced SO many different things. I am a daughter, sister, mother and wife.
I have chosen to take these moments of “Real Life” and encourage other woman to step up in various ministries.
If I can be used by the Lord as a voice of encouragement, a leader for woman’s ministries, a support for their heart, and a worker for His Kingdom…. I am so there!! Reflecting on my life I have been SO blessed to witness, as well as experience, strong, perfectly balanced Godly woman stand up and take small steps to change the world and lead others to a personal relationship with Christ.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
My passion is witnessing something “broken” and seeing the transformation into all that God intended her/him to be. Loving on what others may call the unloved, the unchurched and the unaccepted. Gang it doesn’t get any better than that!! After all we have ALL been those things at one time in our lives. My personal passion is to be used by Christ to pass on His miraculous love & His purpose. Bringing hope to others as well as encouragement through God’s promises is what it’s all about. Provide practical leadership skills that will facilitate, celebrate, encourage and even spark women to serve in various ministry roles at COTH.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
Yes if it is God’s purpose and God’s will! I will forever “seek”, “listen” and “walk” for the Lord. Everyday is a God given opportunity to be a woman of influence, and encouragement in someone’s life. Helping them discover and become all that God destined for them to be. My life will always be full of alacrity, dedication and a longing to teach others about Christ. I owe it ALL to Him!!
Kristina Wells
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from Western Oregon University and an Oregon Teaching License (As of December 2007)
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Two years of student teaching-- 3rd grade, fifth grade, and kindergarten, and employment at a child development center.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I spent my childhood in churches, hearing Bible stories and memorizing verses, but never understood that God had any importance or relevance outside of church. I want to give the kids who come to our church a different experience.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
My driving force is the passion I have for kids to know who God is. I want them to have the foundational knowledge about God’s character that will enable them to engage in a relationship with Him that will mature over the years.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
My role in this church has evolved a lot in the past three years. With so many exciting changes in children's ministries coming up, it’s hard to say where I’ll be in five years, but my greatest hope is to continue serving kids and their families through the church for many more years.
Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from Western Oregon University and an Oregon Teaching License (As of December 2007)
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Two years of student teaching-- 3rd grade, fifth grade, and kindergarten, and employment at a child development center.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I spent my childhood in churches, hearing Bible stories and memorizing verses, but never understood that God had any importance or relevance outside of church. I want to give the kids who come to our church a different experience.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
My driving force is the passion I have for kids to know who God is. I want them to have the foundational knowledge about God’s character that will enable them to engage in a relationship with Him that will mature over the years.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
My role in this church has evolved a lot in the past three years. With so many exciting changes in children's ministries coming up, it’s hard to say where I’ll be in five years, but my greatest hope is to continue serving kids and their families through the church for many more years.
Jessica Spencer
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated from McMinnville High School, where I lettered for dance team and was among the first class to complete CIM & CAM before they were requirements. I became a wife and mother shortly after, which has been an educational process all on it’s own! I plan on going back to school when Grace is a little older.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have worked in the children’s department here at the church for 5 years. I have been responsible for teaching the lessons, preparing crafts, ordering curriculum and training caregiver staff and volunteers making sure that our activities are age appropriate.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Growing up I went to church on Christmas and Easter with my parents. Sometimes my Aunt would take me with her and sometimes I would go to church with friends-mostly VBS. The majority of my younger church life was spent at The First Assembly of God and St. James. When I was about 5, I asked Jesus to come into my heart.
The summer after I graduated high school I was married and had my first of three children; Nicholas (10), Noah (8) and Gracella (2).
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I love kids! It’s an awesome responsibility to “Be Jesus” to the kids we see come through these doors every week. I love that we get to introduce these kids to Jesus and how much he has done for them and how much he loves them.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
It is up to God where I will be in 5 years. I will do what God calls me to do.
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated from McMinnville High School, where I lettered for dance team and was among the first class to complete CIM & CAM before they were requirements. I became a wife and mother shortly after, which has been an educational process all on it’s own! I plan on going back to school when Grace is a little older.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have worked in the children’s department here at the church for 5 years. I have been responsible for teaching the lessons, preparing crafts, ordering curriculum and training caregiver staff and volunteers making sure that our activities are age appropriate.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Growing up I went to church on Christmas and Easter with my parents. Sometimes my Aunt would take me with her and sometimes I would go to church with friends-mostly VBS. The majority of my younger church life was spent at The First Assembly of God and St. James. When I was about 5, I asked Jesus to come into my heart.
The summer after I graduated high school I was married and had my first of three children; Nicholas (10), Noah (8) and Gracella (2).
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I love kids! It’s an awesome responsibility to “Be Jesus” to the kids we see come through these doors every week. I love that we get to introduce these kids to Jesus and how much he has done for them and how much he loves them.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
It is up to God where I will be in 5 years. I will do what God calls me to do.
Nicole Kearns
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
1. Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated from Morro Bay High School in 2003 and since have continued to further my education in Early Childhood Education. I have taken classes through Head Start, Chemeketa and the Child Care Division of Oregon.
2. Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I work for a child development center for two years where I was a teacher for the infants, toddlers and twos. After this I started an in-home day care where I had kids from infants to second graders. While the older kids were at school I held a preschool program that had age-appropriate activities (including toddlers).
3. Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I became a Christian when I was young and I grew up in a God-centered home. When I was younger baby-sitting was my job. I was always surrounded by kids. During High school I took several challenging child development courses. After this I moved to Oregon and immediately began working for the center. While I was working for the child development center and starting the in-home day care, I became a wife and a mother of two.
4. What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
The kids! They are so innocent and they absorb everything. If I can show them the love of Jesus Christ at such an early age it could make a life long impression on them; especially those who do not hear about Christ anywhere else. There is nothing like listening to a child’s first prayer or watching them sing “Jesus Loves Me” with a full understanding of it. They glow and that just warms my heart and makes me want to teach it all over again.
5. Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
I have just been given another opportunity to minister to kids in our community as the director of Discovery Zone Preschool that our church will be opening this coming January. So in taking that position I don’t know how long I will be “Preschool Ministry Director”. I would like to eventually step back from this position so that my main focus’ can be on my family and Discovery Zone Preschool.
BIO Questions Format
1. Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated from Morro Bay High School in 2003 and since have continued to further my education in Early Childhood Education. I have taken classes through Head Start, Chemeketa and the Child Care Division of Oregon.
2. Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I work for a child development center for two years where I was a teacher for the infants, toddlers and twos. After this I started an in-home day care where I had kids from infants to second graders. While the older kids were at school I held a preschool program that had age-appropriate activities (including toddlers).
3. Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I became a Christian when I was young and I grew up in a God-centered home. When I was younger baby-sitting was my job. I was always surrounded by kids. During High school I took several challenging child development courses. After this I moved to Oregon and immediately began working for the center. While I was working for the child development center and starting the in-home day care, I became a wife and a mother of two.
4. What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
The kids! They are so innocent and they absorb everything. If I can show them the love of Jesus Christ at such an early age it could make a life long impression on them; especially those who do not hear about Christ anywhere else. There is nothing like listening to a child’s first prayer or watching them sing “Jesus Loves Me” with a full understanding of it. They glow and that just warms my heart and makes me want to teach it all over again.
5. Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
I have just been given another opportunity to minister to kids in our community as the director of Discovery Zone Preschool that our church will be opening this coming January. So in taking that position I don’t know how long I will be “Preschool Ministry Director”. I would like to eventually step back from this position so that my main focus’ can be on my family and Discovery Zone Preschool.
Kristina Ribali
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated from South High School in Pueblo Colorado in 1991. Degree in Finance from the American Institute of Banking.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I was a Personal Banker and Investment Rep for US Bancorp until our first child was born in 1998. Since then and currently with my husband we run a lawn care and household services company. I’m a mom of two, a business owner and I work with the youth group at the church. I love encouraging and facilitating growth in students and in the other leaders in our program!
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I started working with our youth group in 2003, very soon after that I felt God telling me that I needed to do something more.
As a teen I struggled to find who I was in Christ. I made many poor choices that brought me to a place where all I had was my belief in Christ. From there it has been a journey to become whole. To finally see myself as Jesus sees me. That is the goal for our Life Hurts God Heals program; that students will begin their journey and start to see themselves as Jesus sees them.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I love students who want change in their life! It is priceless to me to see how students grasp the reality of who they are in Christ and the change that ultimately brings in their life. There is no greater reward then to watch a student transform before your eyes, to see them make healthy and good choices and the joy brought back into their lives. I believe our program does this! It transforms broken vessels into servants ready to serve their Lord and change the environment around them.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
Yes! I have a heart to lead students and to lead other student ministers. I don’t think their will be any fewer hurting students in 5 years from now. I have a goal to have this program running in every church that currently has a Celebrate Recovery. I want every youth group and church to have the opportunity to learn how they can change students at a younger and more impressionable age.
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated from South High School in Pueblo Colorado in 1991. Degree in Finance from the American Institute of Banking.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I was a Personal Banker and Investment Rep for US Bancorp until our first child was born in 1998. Since then and currently with my husband we run a lawn care and household services company. I’m a mom of two, a business owner and I work with the youth group at the church. I love encouraging and facilitating growth in students and in the other leaders in our program!
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I started working with our youth group in 2003, very soon after that I felt God telling me that I needed to do something more.
As a teen I struggled to find who I was in Christ. I made many poor choices that brought me to a place where all I had was my belief in Christ. From there it has been a journey to become whole. To finally see myself as Jesus sees me. That is the goal for our Life Hurts God Heals program; that students will begin their journey and start to see themselves as Jesus sees them.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I love students who want change in their life! It is priceless to me to see how students grasp the reality of who they are in Christ and the change that ultimately brings in their life. There is no greater reward then to watch a student transform before your eyes, to see them make healthy and good choices and the joy brought back into their lives. I believe our program does this! It transforms broken vessels into servants ready to serve their Lord and change the environment around them.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
Yes! I have a heart to lead students and to lead other student ministers. I don’t think their will be any fewer hurting students in 5 years from now. I have a goal to have this program running in every church that currently has a Celebrate Recovery. I want every youth group and church to have the opportunity to learn how they can change students at a younger and more impressionable age.
Tracie Utti
Bio for Tracie Utti
I graduated from Sprague High School in 1982 in Salem Oregon. I started working at what I call my first real job 2 months after graduation at State Farm Insurance. I worked there for the next 21 years. I met my husband in 1988 at work. I didn’t grow up going to church so it really wasn’t much of a priority but found out rather quickly that if I wanted to continue my relationship with Rich it was going to be a very important factor.
We dated for about 1 ½ years prior to getting married. He introduced me slowly into a small Presbyterian church in Multnomah which is where we got married and I accepted Christ sometime in my mid 20’s. We had attended church here and there from then on but never really became active until moving to McMinnville in 2001 where we started attending Church on the Hill. We both became active volunteers in several ministries, started up a small group in our home. I became an employee of the church in March 2004 as an assistant and became the Connections Ministry Director in April of 2007.
I live in McMinnville with my husband Rich and son Taylor who is a sophomore in high school. Our daughter Venessa who is 21 and living in Portland, she has completed two years of community college and will start this fall at Western where she will major in criminal justice. She hopes to become a police officer. I feel God will continue to work on me to become the best leader of the Connections Ministry I can helping people get assimilated into the body of the church.
I graduated from Sprague High School in 1982 in Salem Oregon. I started working at what I call my first real job 2 months after graduation at State Farm Insurance. I worked there for the next 21 years. I met my husband in 1988 at work. I didn’t grow up going to church so it really wasn’t much of a priority but found out rather quickly that if I wanted to continue my relationship with Rich it was going to be a very important factor.
We dated for about 1 ½ years prior to getting married. He introduced me slowly into a small Presbyterian church in Multnomah which is where we got married and I accepted Christ sometime in my mid 20’s. We had attended church here and there from then on but never really became active until moving to McMinnville in 2001 where we started attending Church on the Hill. We both became active volunteers in several ministries, started up a small group in our home. I became an employee of the church in March 2004 as an assistant and became the Connections Ministry Director in April of 2007.
I live in McMinnville with my husband Rich and son Taylor who is a sophomore in high school. Our daughter Venessa who is 21 and living in Portland, she has completed two years of community college and will start this fall at Western where she will major in criminal justice. She hopes to become a police officer. I feel God will continue to work on me to become the best leader of the Connections Ministry I can helping people get assimilated into the body of the church.
George Pickard
George Pickard
COTH: Chaplain for Business, and Recovery
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church.
My technical and administrative tendencies have been influenced through earlier Physics and Logistics degrees. Denise and I were called to Christ in 1998, two years after being married, and I spent three years as a small church administrator. After receiving my calling in 1998, the Holy Spirit sent me to George Fox Evangelical Seminary for my MDiv, and then to the Oregon State Hospital for my chaplaincy training. I am ordained by the Evangelical Church Alliance. ECA, an interdenominational alliance, has no church or denomination. Its ministers offer their services to all Christian churches and denominations. Whatever educational background I have completed, I will never complete reaching for the depth of meaning to me that Romans 5:5 continues to have: I continuously walk to path of increasing experience beyond understanding of the majesty of God’s gift to me of the Holy Spirit through Whom I receive His love into my heart. What an awesome gift to convey to others, my world of neighbors, His people, and children in need.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church.
Since I came to Christ late in life, I consider my total professional background as being used by the Holy Spirit to prepare me for His purposes. I have not arrived at the COTH with the traditional ministerial background. I have discovered my propensity for a more structured business environment is being slowly replaced with a more casual and relaxed professional mode. I am even trying very hard to wear my shirttails hanging out.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church.
My parents are “Builder Generation” products, and I have been heavily influenced by their non-display of love and acceptance, no discussion of family issues, and a work ethic of perseverance and silence. I left their Presbyterian church at age eleven when I was told that the line of God’s acceptance was straight and narrow, and if I ever got off the line even if it was not due to me, that I would go straight to hell. Coming out of this background, my achievement drive overpowered past losses and present problems. I now realize that this tremendous and secularly successful drive was to compensate for my earlier loss parental love. Following my 27-year military career, I buried myself into small business manufacturing – plastics for pipes and aircraft, and steel for outdoor BBQ systems. I also have participated in and led SCORE teams that serve the SBA to assist small businesses. I experienced helping to start companies, turning them around, and when necessary shutting them down. Outside the COTH, Denise and I have discovered the world of on board cruising. During the Easter and Christmas seasons, I am an interdenominational chaplain for Princes Cruises. A very experienced pastor with me here at COTH, has observed that this must surely be: “Suffering for Christ!”
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church? Denise and I have sensed that we were led out of Bend, OR, to McMinnville then specifically to COTH, and more recently into Celebrate Recovery. My calling of 1999 has remained a strong focus: “Bring Corporate World to Christ.” For the first time in my Christian life, I feel that here at COTH I am living out my calling. I am deeply passionate about my Spiritual counseling to those in recovery. I sense that through this experience the Holy Spirit is strengthening my preparation for offering Spiritual counseling services to business owners and leaders, and then to their employees. The Celebrate Recovery system feels as the tool and the method that I have been led to use for the rest of my life and serve to Christ. This latter role in service to the business community is evolving as I mature in Christ, here at COTH. To my surprise, the most catching comment that I have made to business owners is “Have Ear Will Listen.” Clearly, confidentiality and “image” are essential to any relationship I am led to develop. To this purpose, I have entered the CR 12 Step program to give to Christ the negative behavioral aspects of my self diagnosed “achievement addiction,” and to walk the path so many of our business owners and leaders need to wrestle with. Denise has joined with me on this 12 Step path as a husband and wife team, walking together in Christ.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
I am maturing in Christ. From my secular background, and my nine years as a Christian, I see myself (Denise and me) tuning into the small quiet voice of the Holy Spirit, and obeying. We have been very clearly led by the Holy Spirit since we were married in Sep 1996. I presently have been led to serve the COTH and our senior pastor. I do this with a passion never experienced in my past.
--- Through Christ in Faith. --- George
COTH: Chaplain for Business, and Recovery
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church.
My technical and administrative tendencies have been influenced through earlier Physics and Logistics degrees. Denise and I were called to Christ in 1998, two years after being married, and I spent three years as a small church administrator. After receiving my calling in 1998, the Holy Spirit sent me to George Fox Evangelical Seminary for my MDiv, and then to the Oregon State Hospital for my chaplaincy training. I am ordained by the Evangelical Church Alliance. ECA, an interdenominational alliance, has no church or denomination. Its ministers offer their services to all Christian churches and denominations. Whatever educational background I have completed, I will never complete reaching for the depth of meaning to me that Romans 5:5 continues to have: I continuously walk to path of increasing experience beyond understanding of the majesty of God’s gift to me of the Holy Spirit through Whom I receive His love into my heart. What an awesome gift to convey to others, my world of neighbors, His people, and children in need.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church.
Since I came to Christ late in life, I consider my total professional background as being used by the Holy Spirit to prepare me for His purposes. I have not arrived at the COTH with the traditional ministerial background. I have discovered my propensity for a more structured business environment is being slowly replaced with a more casual and relaxed professional mode. I am even trying very hard to wear my shirttails hanging out.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church.
My parents are “Builder Generation” products, and I have been heavily influenced by their non-display of love and acceptance, no discussion of family issues, and a work ethic of perseverance and silence. I left their Presbyterian church at age eleven when I was told that the line of God’s acceptance was straight and narrow, and if I ever got off the line even if it was not due to me, that I would go straight to hell. Coming out of this background, my achievement drive overpowered past losses and present problems. I now realize that this tremendous and secularly successful drive was to compensate for my earlier loss parental love. Following my 27-year military career, I buried myself into small business manufacturing – plastics for pipes and aircraft, and steel for outdoor BBQ systems. I also have participated in and led SCORE teams that serve the SBA to assist small businesses. I experienced helping to start companies, turning them around, and when necessary shutting them down. Outside the COTH, Denise and I have discovered the world of on board cruising. During the Easter and Christmas seasons, I am an interdenominational chaplain for Princes Cruises. A very experienced pastor with me here at COTH, has observed that this must surely be: “Suffering for Christ!”
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church? Denise and I have sensed that we were led out of Bend, OR, to McMinnville then specifically to COTH, and more recently into Celebrate Recovery. My calling of 1999 has remained a strong focus: “Bring Corporate World to Christ.” For the first time in my Christian life, I feel that here at COTH I am living out my calling. I am deeply passionate about my Spiritual counseling to those in recovery. I sense that through this experience the Holy Spirit is strengthening my preparation for offering Spiritual counseling services to business owners and leaders, and then to their employees. The Celebrate Recovery system feels as the tool and the method that I have been led to use for the rest of my life and serve to Christ. This latter role in service to the business community is evolving as I mature in Christ, here at COTH. To my surprise, the most catching comment that I have made to business owners is “Have Ear Will Listen.” Clearly, confidentiality and “image” are essential to any relationship I am led to develop. To this purpose, I have entered the CR 12 Step program to give to Christ the negative behavioral aspects of my self diagnosed “achievement addiction,” and to walk the path so many of our business owners and leaders need to wrestle with. Denise has joined with me on this 12 Step path as a husband and wife team, walking together in Christ.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
I am maturing in Christ. From my secular background, and my nine years as a Christian, I see myself (Denise and me) tuning into the small quiet voice of the Holy Spirit, and obeying. We have been very clearly led by the Holy Spirit since we were married in Sep 1996. I presently have been led to serve the COTH and our senior pastor. I do this with a passion never experienced in my past.
--- Through Christ in Faith. --- George
Chris Collins
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Church and family life have always been important to Chris. He spent the first few years of his life attending a Church of Christ church with his mother. She remarried when Chris was six and, from that point forward, he was raised in a Southern Baptist church where his new father was pastor. At age 8, Chris made a decision to be a Christ follower.
Years later, at 21, Chris began dating a former high school crush shortly after she began attending the same church. They were married in 1994. Melissa and Chris now have 2 children, Carissa (10) and Corban (7) as well as another, Hattie, on the way.
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Chris attended Richland High School in Fort Worth, Texas, were he lettered in varsity football, track, gymnastics and cheerleading (or yell leading, as he prefers to call it). Upon graduation, Chris studied at the University of Texas and Tarrant Community College before pursuing a biblical studies degree at Dallas Baptist University and The Criswell College. He graduated in 1998 with 8 years of study, one degree and many life lessons learned. His degree in biblical studies with an emphasis on pastoral ministry has given him what he believes to be a solid educational foundation for ministry.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
After graduating high school, Chris worked with children and teens as a gymnastics and tumbling coach—giving him experience with and developing his love for kids of all ages. His relationship with Christ led him into vocational ministry at 23. He served as a college pastor, singles pastor and associate pastor his first 6 years in ministry before founding a new church in North Fort Worth and serving as senior pastor. He served at Grace Community Church for 6 years before being led to Church on the Hill where he serves as children and family ministries pastor.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
Chris’ role as children’s pastor was initially pursued because he wanted to personally influence his own and other kids to follow Jesus. That desire soon developed into a passion for reaching and influencing entire families in order to make a significant and lasting difference in the lives of children. As family ministries pastor, Chris’ passion is characterized in the mission statement of the Children’s Ministry, “Building futures for Jesus—TODAY!” and that of Family Ministries, “Developing spiritual, emotional and relational health in our homes!”
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
Chris intends to make a difference in the lives of children and families for years to come. How that might look in the years ahead, he doesn’t know. One thing is sure, in his own words, “I am content to be used of God here at Church on the Hill and to live out the remainder of my life here in McMinnville, serving this community for years to come.
BIO Questions Format
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Church and family life have always been important to Chris. He spent the first few years of his life attending a Church of Christ church with his mother. She remarried when Chris was six and, from that point forward, he was raised in a Southern Baptist church where his new father was pastor. At age 8, Chris made a decision to be a Christ follower.
Years later, at 21, Chris began dating a former high school crush shortly after she began attending the same church. They were married in 1994. Melissa and Chris now have 2 children, Carissa (10) and Corban (7) as well as another, Hattie, on the way.
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Chris attended Richland High School in Fort Worth, Texas, were he lettered in varsity football, track, gymnastics and cheerleading (or yell leading, as he prefers to call it). Upon graduation, Chris studied at the University of Texas and Tarrant Community College before pursuing a biblical studies degree at Dallas Baptist University and The Criswell College. He graduated in 1998 with 8 years of study, one degree and many life lessons learned. His degree in biblical studies with an emphasis on pastoral ministry has given him what he believes to be a solid educational foundation for ministry.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
After graduating high school, Chris worked with children and teens as a gymnastics and tumbling coach—giving him experience with and developing his love for kids of all ages. His relationship with Christ led him into vocational ministry at 23. He served as a college pastor, singles pastor and associate pastor his first 6 years in ministry before founding a new church in North Fort Worth and serving as senior pastor. He served at Grace Community Church for 6 years before being led to Church on the Hill where he serves as children and family ministries pastor.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
Chris’ role as children’s pastor was initially pursued because he wanted to personally influence his own and other kids to follow Jesus. That desire soon developed into a passion for reaching and influencing entire families in order to make a significant and lasting difference in the lives of children. As family ministries pastor, Chris’ passion is characterized in the mission statement of the Children’s Ministry, “Building futures for Jesus—TODAY!” and that of Family Ministries, “Developing spiritual, emotional and relational health in our homes!”
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years; if not where would you see you in the church?
Chris intends to make a difference in the lives of children and families for years to come. How that might look in the years ahead, he doesn’t know. One thing is sure, in his own words, “I am content to be used of God here at Church on the Hill and to live out the remainder of my life here in McMinnville, serving this community for years to come.
Dale Collver
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated McKay high school.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have been self employed for 10 yrs. I have been in the people business for most of my life. I have to learn to understand and communicate with people so as to get the product they are happy with into their hands. This has been helpful when working with teens and their parents. Of course this skill is translated into spiritual things.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have a beautiful wife of 11 yrs named Heather Collver, and three gorgeous girls, Hayden 3, Hannah 6, Hayley 9. Real life lessons have helped shape me into a man who loves kids and wants to see that every one of them know Jesus loves them.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
My passion is to share Christ and His love with these kids. I want them to know that they can have a relationship with Him and that Christ doesn’t want them to be religious.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself working with teens until God moves me. Be assured this is not an intentional stepping stone for a “Pastor” position. I love teens #1, #2 I love senior adults.
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I graduated McKay high school.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have been self employed for 10 yrs. I have been in the people business for most of my life. I have to learn to understand and communicate with people so as to get the product they are happy with into their hands. This has been helpful when working with teens and their parents. Of course this skill is translated into spiritual things.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have a beautiful wife of 11 yrs named Heather Collver, and three gorgeous girls, Hayden 3, Hannah 6, Hayley 9. Real life lessons have helped shape me into a man who loves kids and wants to see that every one of them know Jesus loves them.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
My passion is to share Christ and His love with these kids. I want them to know that they can have a relationship with Him and that Christ doesn’t want them to be religious.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself working with teens until God moves me. Be assured this is not an intentional stepping stone for a “Pastor” position. I love teens #1, #2 I love senior adults.
Jim Ramos
Profile of Jim Ramos
Jim is a 1984 graduate of Morro Bay High School in California. He accepted Christ after his senior year in high school when one of his football coaches, Gary McCuskar, wouldn’t stop bugging him about Jesus. Jim never attended a church youth function all through his teen years and never hear the term “Youth group” until after college.
From there he continued his education and football career at Santa Clara University where in 1985 he had a near death experience during a routine knee surgery. After the surgery he heard the voice of God saying “Jim, I want you to make a difference in the lies of teens.” Jim was only 19 years old when he began working with autistic and severely learning disabled teenagers through college. He graduated in 1988 with a degree in Psychology and moved to his home town of Morro Bay, California in 1989 where he officially began his youth ministry career in May of 1989.
Jim will have been in youth ministry 19 years come May of 2008. Jim began his ministry as Youth for Christ area director over San Luis Obispo County where he became a credentialed YFC director in 1994. He was ordained in the Church of the Nazarene in 2000. He has coached high school football (1990-1997) and baseball (1990-92) for fun and is now coaching his boys in football and baseball as a volunteer. Jim served teens in his first community of Morro Bay over 14 years before moving to the Church on the Hill in McMinnville, Oregon in June of 2003. Jim lives in Mac with Shanna, his beautiful wife of over 15 years (Shanna was his best volunteer in Campus Life) along with his three handsome boys James (13), Darby (11) and Colton (9). He has just completed his 4th year in youth ministry at the Church on the Hill overseeing the middle school through college ministries where he confesses he is ,”finally learning this countuy.”He is a youth ministry “lifer” and feels called to one day pastor youth pastors while serving the local church as thei volunteer youth pastor..
Jim is a 1984 graduate of Morro Bay High School in California. He accepted Christ after his senior year in high school when one of his football coaches, Gary McCuskar, wouldn’t stop bugging him about Jesus. Jim never attended a church youth function all through his teen years and never hear the term “Youth group” until after college.
From there he continued his education and football career at Santa Clara University where in 1985 he had a near death experience during a routine knee surgery. After the surgery he heard the voice of God saying “Jim, I want you to make a difference in the lies of teens.” Jim was only 19 years old when he began working with autistic and severely learning disabled teenagers through college. He graduated in 1988 with a degree in Psychology and moved to his home town of Morro Bay, California in 1989 where he officially began his youth ministry career in May of 1989.
Jim will have been in youth ministry 19 years come May of 2008. Jim began his ministry as Youth for Christ area director over San Luis Obispo County where he became a credentialed YFC director in 1994. He was ordained in the Church of the Nazarene in 2000. He has coached high school football (1990-1997) and baseball (1990-92) for fun and is now coaching his boys in football and baseball as a volunteer. Jim served teens in his first community of Morro Bay over 14 years before moving to the Church on the Hill in McMinnville, Oregon in June of 2003. Jim lives in Mac with Shanna, his beautiful wife of over 15 years (Shanna was his best volunteer in Campus Life) along with his three handsome boys James (13), Darby (11) and Colton (9). He has just completed his 4th year in youth ministry at the Church on the Hill overseeing the middle school through college ministries where he confesses he is ,”finally learning this countuy.”He is a youth ministry “lifer” and feels called to one day pastor youth pastors while serving the local church as thei volunteer youth pastor..
Lon Eckdahl
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
BA in religion and a Master of Ministry degree from Point Loma Nazarene University. Some specialized training in senior adult ministries from CASA (Christian Association of Senior Adults).
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
36 years as a senior pastor, plus work as a hospital chaplain and law enforcement chaplain.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
My love for senior adults. And the privilege to offer continuing care to my aged mother.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
The realization that the people I am responsible for are probably the closest to eternity of any group in the church. And as they face the changes that age brings, there is a wonderful opportunity to introduce them to the Person of Jesus Christ. We have the opportunity to bring love and hope into their lives.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself in this role until I can no longer function effectively. Another 5 years, or 10 years at the outside.
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
BA in religion and a Master of Ministry degree from Point Loma Nazarene University. Some specialized training in senior adult ministries from CASA (Christian Association of Senior Adults).
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
36 years as a senior pastor, plus work as a hospital chaplain and law enforcement chaplain.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
My love for senior adults. And the privilege to offer continuing care to my aged mother.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
The realization that the people I am responsible for are probably the closest to eternity of any group in the church. And as they face the changes that age brings, there is a wonderful opportunity to introduce them to the Person of Jesus Christ. We have the opportunity to bring love and hope into their lives.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself in this role until I can no longer function effectively. Another 5 years, or 10 years at the outside.
David Ballard
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
After high school I attended a junior college for two years working on a degree in wildlife management. Then on December 23, 1975 God made it clear I was to study to be a pastor. So I enrolled in Point Loma Nazarene University and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1980.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
While at Point Loma, I worked as a youth pastor at a Presbyterian church in San Diego. I saw the struggles a mission minded pastor experiences when leading a mission-less congregation. After I graduated, Lon Eckdahl hired me as his youth pastor in February of 1981. Two years later he headed to Hawaii and I served as interim pastor until the new senior pastor was hired. I learned to love people from Lon, saw what passion could do for a youth ministry, and had my first lessons at top level leadership. Soon after, I was picked up by the Oroville Church of the Nazarene as their youth pastor. I served there 5 ½ years and then went to the Porterville Church of the Nazarene to lead their youth department. There John Denney (Sr. Pastor) taught me about organization, management and structure. After three years there I left full time ministry, moved my family to Oregon and worked as a project manager for a large landscape company. We began attending the Church on the Hill in June of 1992 and was hired as an associate pastor in December of 1994. I served under Wes Smith in various roles until May of 2000 when I became the senior pastor.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Looking back, it seems leadership and hard work has always been a way of life for me. In sports I served as team captain. With my friends, I was the decision maker. When I became a Christian at age 16, I was soon the youth group leader. I led bibles studies while in the junior college, as well as when I went to PLNU. From the time I was in junior high, I went to work concrete every day after school, every weekend, and all summer long. By the 12th grade, I was foreman of my concrete crew and supervised men twice my age. The two things I seem to do well is work hard and lead people and that is what my role requires of me today.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I still remember what it was like to be lost and going to hell. Not until a Wednesday night in the spring of 1972 did I know what it was like to be on your way to heaven. That journey to heaven also brought me into a loving church family where I learned about life in God’s Spirit. While that church loved me, they did not seek me. They just stood by and waited, hoping God would bring someone new into their midst. I NEVER want to be a part of a church that idly stands by and waits for the lost to find them. I will forever pour my life out for a church that cooperates with God’s leading to seek after those who are far from God. Leading this staff and congregation seems to be exactly what God has been designing me for all my life. I am living out God’s perfect purpose for my life and that gives me passion.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself in this role for many years - until I can no longer be effective as the senior pastor. Then I hope to step aside and let some younger pastor take my place and I hope the church finds some other role for me to serve at that time. I want to actively and aggressively work to help this church achieve it’s mission until the day I die. Then I will continue to pray for it’s success for the rest of eternity.
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
After high school I attended a junior college for two years working on a degree in wildlife management. Then on December 23, 1975 God made it clear I was to study to be a pastor. So I enrolled in Point Loma Nazarene University and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1980.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
While at Point Loma, I worked as a youth pastor at a Presbyterian church in San Diego. I saw the struggles a mission minded pastor experiences when leading a mission-less congregation. After I graduated, Lon Eckdahl hired me as his youth pastor in February of 1981. Two years later he headed to Hawaii and I served as interim pastor until the new senior pastor was hired. I learned to love people from Lon, saw what passion could do for a youth ministry, and had my first lessons at top level leadership. Soon after, I was picked up by the Oroville Church of the Nazarene as their youth pastor. I served there 5 ½ years and then went to the Porterville Church of the Nazarene to lead their youth department. There John Denney (Sr. Pastor) taught me about organization, management and structure. After three years there I left full time ministry, moved my family to Oregon and worked as a project manager for a large landscape company. We began attending the Church on the Hill in June of 1992 and was hired as an associate pastor in December of 1994. I served under Wes Smith in various roles until May of 2000 when I became the senior pastor.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Looking back, it seems leadership and hard work has always been a way of life for me. In sports I served as team captain. With my friends, I was the decision maker. When I became a Christian at age 16, I was soon the youth group leader. I led bibles studies while in the junior college, as well as when I went to PLNU. From the time I was in junior high, I went to work concrete every day after school, every weekend, and all summer long. By the 12th grade, I was foreman of my concrete crew and supervised men twice my age. The two things I seem to do well is work hard and lead people and that is what my role requires of me today.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I still remember what it was like to be lost and going to hell. Not until a Wednesday night in the spring of 1972 did I know what it was like to be on your way to heaven. That journey to heaven also brought me into a loving church family where I learned about life in God’s Spirit. While that church loved me, they did not seek me. They just stood by and waited, hoping God would bring someone new into their midst. I NEVER want to be a part of a church that idly stands by and waits for the lost to find them. I will forever pour my life out for a church that cooperates with God’s leading to seek after those who are far from God. Leading this staff and congregation seems to be exactly what God has been designing me for all my life. I am living out God’s perfect purpose for my life and that gives me passion.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself in this role for many years - until I can no longer be effective as the senior pastor. Then I hope to step aside and let some younger pastor take my place and I hope the church finds some other role for me to serve at that time. I want to actively and aggressively work to help this church achieve it’s mission until the day I die. Then I will continue to pray for it’s success for the rest of eternity.
Jerry Moen
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
After high school I attended a junior college for two years working on a degree in wildlife management. Then on December 23, 1975 God made it clear I was to study to be a pastor. So I enrolled in Point Loma Nazarene University and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1980.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
While at Point Loma, I worked as a youth pastor at a Presbyterian church in San Diego. I saw the struggles a mission minded pastor experiences when leading a mission-less congregation. After I graduated, Lon Eckdahl hired me as his youth pastor in February of 1981. Two years later he headed to Hawaii and I served as interim pastor until the new senior pastor was hired. I learned to love people from Lon, saw what passion could do for a youth ministry, and had my first lessons at top level leadership. Soon after, I was picked up by the Oroville Church of the Nazarene as their youth pastor. I served there 5 ½ years and then went to the Porterville Church of the Nazarene to lead their youth department. There John Denney (Sr. Pastor) taught me about organization, management and structure. After three years there I left full time ministry, moved my family to Oregon and worked as a project manager for a large landscape company. We began attending the Church on the Hill in June of 1992 and was hired as an associate pastor in December of 1994. I served under Wes Smith in various roles until May of 2000 when I became the senior pastor.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Looking back, it seems leadership and hard work has always been a way of life for me. In sports I served as team captain. With my friends, I was the decision maker. When I became a Christian at age 16, I was soon the youth group leader. I led bibles studies while in the junior college, as well as when I went to PLNU. From the time I was in junior high, I went to work concrete every day after school, every weekend, and all summer long. By the 12th grade, I was foreman of my concrete crew and supervised men twice my age. The two things I seem to do well is work hard and lead people and that is what my role requires of me today.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I still remember what it was like to be lost and going to hell. Not until a Wednesday night in the spring of 1972 did I know what it was like to be on your way to heaven. That journey to heaven also brought me into a loving church family where I learned about life in God’s Spirit. While that church loved me, they did not seek me. They just stood by and waited, hoping God would bring someone new into their midst. I NEVER want to be a part of a church that idly stands by and waits for the lost to find them. I will forever pour my life out for a church that cooperates with God’s leading to seek after those who are far from God. Leading this staff and congregation seems to be exactly what God has been designing me for all my life. I am living out God’s perfect purpose for my life and that gives me passion.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself in this role for many years - until I can no longer be effective as the senior pastor. Then I hope to step aside and let some younger pastor take my place and I hope the church finds some other role for me to serve at that time. I want to actively and aggressively work to help this church achieve it’s mission until the day I die. Then I will continue to pray for it’s success for the rest of eternity.
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
After high school I attended a junior college for two years working on a degree in wildlife management. Then on December 23, 1975 God made it clear I was to study to be a pastor. So I enrolled in Point Loma Nazarene University and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1980.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
While at Point Loma, I worked as a youth pastor at a Presbyterian church in San Diego. I saw the struggles a mission minded pastor experiences when leading a mission-less congregation. After I graduated, Lon Eckdahl hired me as his youth pastor in February of 1981. Two years later he headed to Hawaii and I served as interim pastor until the new senior pastor was hired. I learned to love people from Lon, saw what passion could do for a youth ministry, and had my first lessons at top level leadership. Soon after, I was picked up by the Oroville Church of the Nazarene as their youth pastor. I served there 5 ½ years and then went to the Porterville Church of the Nazarene to lead their youth department. There John Denney (Sr. Pastor) taught me about organization, management and structure. After three years there I left full time ministry, moved my family to Oregon and worked as a project manager for a large landscape company. We began attending the Church on the Hill in June of 1992 and was hired as an associate pastor in December of 1994. I served under Wes Smith in various roles until May of 2000 when I became the senior pastor.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
Looking back, it seems leadership and hard work has always been a way of life for me. In sports I served as team captain. With my friends, I was the decision maker. When I became a Christian at age 16, I was soon the youth group leader. I led bibles studies while in the junior college, as well as when I went to PLNU. From the time I was in junior high, I went to work concrete every day after school, every weekend, and all summer long. By the 12th grade, I was foreman of my concrete crew and supervised men twice my age. The two things I seem to do well is work hard and lead people and that is what my role requires of me today.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I still remember what it was like to be lost and going to hell. Not until a Wednesday night in the spring of 1972 did I know what it was like to be on your way to heaven. That journey to heaven also brought me into a loving church family where I learned about life in God’s Spirit. While that church loved me, they did not seek me. They just stood by and waited, hoping God would bring someone new into their midst. I NEVER want to be a part of a church that idly stands by and waits for the lost to find them. I will forever pour my life out for a church that cooperates with God’s leading to seek after those who are far from God. Leading this staff and congregation seems to be exactly what God has been designing me for all my life. I am living out God’s perfect purpose for my life and that gives me passion.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself in this role for many years - until I can no longer be effective as the senior pastor. Then I hope to step aside and let some younger pastor take my place and I hope the church finds some other role for me to serve at that time. I want to actively and aggressively work to help this church achieve it’s mission until the day I die. Then I will continue to pray for it’s success for the rest of eternity.
Bill Wertz
Pastors and Ministry Directors and Leaders
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have three graduations and one almost graduation…that’s like batting .750 in the Majors. I graduated from Holbrook Elementary in Concord, CA in 1967, Glenbrook Jr High in 1969, and Mt. Diablo High in 1973 (yes I’m 51 years old). Unfortunately I never got that last one that I started done. But I have always been a passionate learner (I am a real hands on kind of person) and now I say my degree is lining the bookshelves in my office. I have learned how to teach myself the concepts I need to know in order to do what God has called me to do.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I am a very competent carpenter and I was a General Contractor in California…I know how to build things (I think Jesus did too). I am extremely mechanical and know how to make things work. This training in processes and design have served me well in ministry for the last 30 years. I have been blessed to be a key part in three growing churches (including this one). I served as a youth Pastor at the El Morro Church of the Nazarene in Los Osos, CA for seven and some years. That church grew from 100 to 500 some during my time there. I moved to Washington and became the Spiritual Growth/Administrative/Executive Pastor for seven and some years. That church grew from 400 to just about 3,000 while I was there (pretty cool). For the last five and three quarter years I have served here at Church on the Hill as Spiritual Growth Pastor, Executive Pastor, and now as Mission and Outreach Pastor.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I was born into a Non-Christian family. Yes in some ways that helped me. My conversion to Christ was a radical departure and one I would never in a million years imagined. I HATED Christians. I thought they were all judgmental and critical. As a result of that, I have always tried to help non-Christians see Christ for who He is and not how we’ve made Him to be. And I have tried to help Christians see that Non-Christians are not our enemies and they are the reason we have been given LIFE! My experience and perspective has helped the churches I have served at have a high return on our Kingdom dollars by seeing many people either find Christ, or find there way back to Him.
But I am also married to Tracey who comes from an even more non religious background than I. She has been my partner in ministry for 20 years of serving full-time in paid ministry and 10 years of serving Jesus in a layman’s role (yes that’s 30 years of marriage). Our two kids Sarah and Jacob grew up spending their Easter vacations on Native American Reservations serving them with an organization called Project Yes that I helped develop. Altogether I have led 20 some Mission trips…that is really where all of my gifting and abilities come in to play…I love it. I have one son in law named Shawn and two awesome Grandsons named Jackson and Aidan that I love and want them to grow up with an example of a G-Pa who spent his life serving Jesus.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I love it when I see someone who has been self focused all their lives become passionately engaged in reaching others for Jesus. I love to see churches being transformed from self focused churches to being passionately engaged in reaching people for Christ. I love to see churches and leaders focused on a single mission. I love to see people get a total buzz when they discover their God given ministry and become totally consumed with serving Jesus. I want to see this church experience an Acts 2 kind of outpouring of God’s anointing…I know it can happen.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself serving Jesus the rest of my life…I hope that is in McMinnville…but I have learned that sometimes God has other plans. I would love to be out on a mission field somewhere…but I believe God has called Tracey and I to be a part of a local church…that seems to be where God wants us and uses us.
BIO Questions Format
Educational Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I have three graduations and one almost graduation…that’s like batting .750 in the Majors. I graduated from Holbrook Elementary in Concord, CA in 1967, Glenbrook Jr High in 1969, and Mt. Diablo High in 1973 (yes I’m 51 years old). Unfortunately I never got that last one that I started done. But I have always been a passionate learner (I am a real hands on kind of person) and now I say my degree is lining the bookshelves in my office. I have learned how to teach myself the concepts I need to know in order to do what God has called me to do.
Professional Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I am a very competent carpenter and I was a General Contractor in California…I know how to build things (I think Jesus did too). I am extremely mechanical and know how to make things work. This training in processes and design have served me well in ministry for the last 30 years. I have been blessed to be a key part in three growing churches (including this one). I served as a youth Pastor at the El Morro Church of the Nazarene in Los Osos, CA for seven and some years. That church grew from 100 to 500 some during my time there. I moved to Washington and became the Spiritual Growth/Administrative/Executive Pastor for seven and some years. That church grew from 400 to just about 3,000 while I was there (pretty cool). For the last five and three quarter years I have served here at Church on the Hill as Spiritual Growth Pastor, Executive Pastor, and now as Mission and Outreach Pastor.
Personal Background that helped prepare you for the role you play at the church?
I was born into a Non-Christian family. Yes in some ways that helped me. My conversion to Christ was a radical departure and one I would never in a million years imagined. I HATED Christians. I thought they were all judgmental and critical. As a result of that, I have always tried to help non-Christians see Christ for who He is and not how we’ve made Him to be. And I have tried to help Christians see that Non-Christians are not our enemies and they are the reason we have been given LIFE! My experience and perspective has helped the churches I have served at have a high return on our Kingdom dollars by seeing many people either find Christ, or find there way back to Him.
But I am also married to Tracey who comes from an even more non religious background than I. She has been my partner in ministry for 20 years of serving full-time in paid ministry and 10 years of serving Jesus in a layman’s role (yes that’s 30 years of marriage). Our two kids Sarah and Jacob grew up spending their Easter vacations on Native American Reservations serving them with an organization called Project Yes that I helped develop. Altogether I have led 20 some Mission trips…that is really where all of my gifting and abilities come in to play…I love it. I have one son in law named Shawn and two awesome Grandsons named Jackson and Aidan that I love and want them to grow up with an example of a G-Pa who spent his life serving Jesus.
What is the passion that drives your particular role in the church?
I love it when I see someone who has been self focused all their lives become passionately engaged in reaching others for Jesus. I love to see churches being transformed from self focused churches to being passionately engaged in reaching people for Christ. I love to see churches and leaders focused on a single mission. I love to see people get a total buzz when they discover their God given ministry and become totally consumed with serving Jesus. I want to see this church experience an Acts 2 kind of outpouring of God’s anointing…I know it can happen.
Do you see yourself in this role in 5 years, if not where would you see you in the church?
I see myself serving Jesus the rest of my life…I hope that is in McMinnville…but I have learned that sometimes God has other plans. I would love to be out on a mission field somewhere…but I believe God has called Tracey and I to be a part of a local church…that seems to be where God wants us and uses us.
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