team.

Senior Pastor

Doug Clark

I grew up in Akron, Ohio. There were five of us in my family – my parents and my two sisters with me in the middle. I trusted Christ when I was 12 years old and then strayed through most of junior high and high school. The summer before my senior year in high school, two of my best friends and I went to a Young Life Camp in Colorado. It was on the bus ride home that Jesus really got a hold of my heart. I committed to following Him and was discipled, and I’m grateful for the patience the Lord showed me.

I attended Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, where I majored in business. After graduation, I worked for my dad in the family business, saw much of the country from the seat of a bicycle, and volunteered with Young Life. Around this time, I met Vicki. She was on staff with Campus Crusade for Christ, and God used her in a major way to move me toward ministry.

Vicki and I were married in November of 1987 and immediately moved to Portland, Oregon, where I attended Western Seminary. I graduated with a Masters of Divinity and a Masters of Theology. We have been privileged to raise two incredible children, Micah, who is married to Mary, and Chelsea.

I joined the Grace Staff in December of 2005, and my passion is that we would be a body of disciples who make disciples – that is helping people come to Christ and grow in Christ so they can then help others experience the same for the Glory of God. I want our church to live out the word of God by loving Him and others.

EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF MINISTRIES

Michael Sieber

I was raised in the North Houston area and trusted in Christ as a high school senior on a youth group ski trip.

After graduating from Baylor University, I spent 4 years as a business consultant with Accenture and 3 years as a full-time youth pastor while attending Dallas Theological Seminary part-time. From there, I worked for 15 years in progressive leadership roles in the medical device industry. In 2017, I answered the call to vocational ministry taking on the role of Vice President of Church and Ministry Partnerships with World Vision.

I have been happily married to my amazingly talented, beautiful, and patient wife, Jennifer, since 2001. We have three awesome kids, Grace, Brock, and Cullen.

My greatest passion is sharing the Gospel with a lost, broken, and dying world. I am also passionate about helping unlock and unleash people’s superpowers, hiking, camping, swimming, boating, eating queso, and basically doing anything outdoors with family and friends.

I joined the Grace staff in 2021 and oversee all of our ministry staff. My deep hope is that we would fully live out our mission of being and making disciples for the glory of God.

EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF OPERATIONS

Kirk Hudson

I grew up in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. My parents were so kind to send me to camp when I was young, and that is where I was introduced to Jesus. I began to grow in my understanding of who Jesus was and is in my life, and I am thankful to my parents who pointed me to Jesus at an early age.

I am married to Kelly, and we have four children of our own, Kalloway, who is married to Bobby, Konner, Kory, and Karoline. For a few years we also had two international students from China, Bevin and Henry, who we call our sons.

I joined the Grace staff in January of 2017, and it is my joy to oversee the resources of our organization. God is generous and kind, and He provides generously what is needed to be used to bring Him Glory!

Grace Community Church and Grace Community School have a tremendous influence in the local community, in East Texas, and internationally because of God’s generosity. I pray that we as His children and as a body of believers are generous with our lives to be disciples who make disciples.

Campus Pastor - Grace Español

David J. Ramos

I am originally from Bayamón, Puerto Rico. I was raised in a Christian home where church planting was our calling. However, in 1995, the Lord called us to leave Puerto Rico and move to South Florida.

After a few years away from my faith, I found myself in a dark place needing Jesus. In 2001, I reconciled with Jesus, accepting His Lordship in my life and have served Him ever since.

I have been married for 18 years to my beautiful bride, Emily Ramos. We have two beautiful daughters, Janelle, born in January of 2006, and Jaylene, born in July of 2012. Both my wife and my daughters are precious gifts from God to my life.

I joined the Grace team in January of 2023, and my hope is to reach the Hispanic community in Tyler with the transforming message of Jesus Christ. I will do so by loving families and helping them to discover and follow Jesus.

CAMPUS PASTOR - LINDALE

Lewis Pollard

I was born in Augusta, Georgia, and grew up in Clearwater, South Carolina. I benefitted greatly from the local church’s volunteers in children’s and student ministries, and I had two Godly grandmothers who modeled their faith well. At the age of fifteen, I placed my faith in Jesus.

I have had the honor of being married to Erin since January 1, 2000. We are the parents of Isaac, Karis, Elijah, Ellee, Samuel, and Korbyn.

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2015, and I desire to continue to steward well the opportunity that I get to serve alongside the body of believers and our staff team at Grace Community Church in Lindale.

Campus Pastor, University Blvd.

Mike Tropea

I grew up in upstate NY right outside the city of Syracuse. After an ongoing pursuit of truth and life through various means outside of Jesus, I realized He had been pursuing me throughout my life. I finally realized the beauty of the Gospel through Jesus at the age of 17, and He has taken me on a wild ride ever since.

My wife, Alexa, and I have one daughter, Aurora, born in November of 2014. We like to call ourselves “Team Tropea” (pronounced: tro-pay-a). You can find us outside in nature, playing crazy family games, and opening our table for others.

I’m a nerd for history, being outdoors, staying active, and spending time with my family.  I have a heart for “community” and people’s stories that God gives each of us.

I joined the Grace team in July of 2023, and my hope is to seek out life together with those who know Christ and to invite others to our table who don’t know Him to get to know WHOSE they are.

Campus Development Pastor - University Blvd.

Jacob Helmeczi

I was born in Missouri and moved to New Jersey after my father died when I was four. I was adopted by a loving family who faithfully taught me about Jesus. I called myself a Christian, but truthfully, Jesus was not Lord of my life, and I had no idea who he really was.

In college, God radically got my attention after I overdosed on drugs at the end of my sophomore year. The next day, I met with Pastor Ray, a college pastor, who taught me the Gospel in a way I had never heard it before. I gave my life to the Lord, and I haven’t looked back.

I am the proud husband to my beautiful wife, Jessica, and we have been blessed with four incredible kids: Elijah, Elisabeth, Jeremiah, and Georgianna.

I joined the Grace team in January of 2022, and my sincere hope is to serve alongside our church family as we learn how to be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and do what Jesus did by submitting all of our lives of His lordship and empowering presence on a daily basis.

CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT PASTOR - LINDALE

Matt Ravanesi

I was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago and started following Jesus after I attended a Young Life camp. After graduating from Texas Christian University, I felt called to ministry with high school students and served 7 years on staff with Young Life in Dallas.

I met my wife, Jennie, and we spent the first four years of our marriage working at a Sky Ranch property near Lake City, Colorado, before coming on staff with Grace. We have two daughters, Lizzie and Sophie. We have a heart for foster care and have had numerous foster placements in our home.

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2014, and my hope is for others to experience a deep relationship with Jesus and share the hope they have in Christ with others.

SENIOR WORSHIP PASTOR

Jon Jenz

I grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and came to know Jesus as a freshman in college at Bowling Green State University in Ohio.

When I was in college, I made some pretty poor decisions. I guess I was your typical college freshman. Eventually, I was invited to attend a campus church with a friend. The pastor was young and very honest. He pulled out the Bible and started talking about Jesus as if He was his best friend. A few days later, the pastor asked me to lunch and told me how Jesus had transformed him. It didn’t take much longer for me to realize I wanted to know Jesus and experience this kind of transformation. And I have!

I am married to Laura, and we have five kids, Luke, Maggie, Sam, Josie, and Eli.

I joined the Grace staff in 2007, and my deep hope is that our awareness of the love of God for us would spur us to glorify Him with our lives.

WORSHIP DIRECTOR - GRACE ESPAÑOL

Henry Centeno

Though I was born in a little town called Aguachica, Cesar, I grew up in two different Colombian cities – Cúcuta for 10 years, from the age of 2, and Bucaramanga, where I spent my next 11 years. I first gave my life to Jesus in a kids camp the same day I was turning 7 years old. The speaker invited those who wanted to give their lives to Jesus, and I’m so glad I said YES!

After that, I had this sense of purpose in my life, and a few years later, I knew God was calling me into full-time ministry service. My dad was a pastor, and he truly taught us to love God and to serve His church. I started playing the guitar when I was 15 and leading worship when I was 19. I later invested part of my life as a missionary within the Latino community in the US, both in Miami, Florida, and here in Tyler.

I’m married to the most beautiful Colombian woman, Helena. She’s also a great singer and a committed member of our worship team.  We have two wonderful boys. Juan David, the big brother, is a thinker, an introvert, and a very talented musician, and Liam Michael, is an extroverted, expressive, passionate kid who also loves music and singing. We really enjoy worshipping and serving the Lord together.

I joined Grace in February of 2015 and started serving as a volunteer, leading worship since the beginning of Grace Español. I became part of the Grace staff in October of 2018.

I love my job as a worship leader. My heart’s desire is to see people from every nation and language becoming true worshippers of Jesus Christ and living on a mission for Him. I’m so grateful to God that I can see that happening right in front of my eyes here at Grace!

WORSHIP DIRECTOR - UNIVERSITY BLVD.

Kyle Geyman

I grew up in Royse City, Texas, which got a Buc-ee’s in 2019 and is now officially on the map! My parents led and discipled me to Jesus, and I decided to follow Him when I was about 11 years old. No turning back!

Fun fact: I am a triplet! I love a wide range of music, and I have probably spent too much money on different concerts throughout my life: Coldplay, The Eagles, Chris Stapleton, and even Josh Groban. I am very easy-going except on game nights. I usually laugh at my own jokes, and I am a big fan of adventure, great food, and funny stories! I like to see the best in people and use my energy to encourage those around me.

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2019, and my deep hope is to use music and art to draw us closer to Jesus and inspire us to worship Him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

WORSHIP DIRECTOR - LINDALE

Kyle Smith

I grew up in East Texas and am happy to be back home after adventuring around the country. My parents, along with other faithful people, modeled the love of Jesus to me throughout my childhood. I understood and accepted Jesus as my Savior while reading a devotional for teens while eating breakfast during junior high. It was oatmeal, dry toast, and orange juice.

I’m married to my favorite person in the world, Kristy. Our kids, Wyatt and Mae, are the coolest.

I joined the Grace staff in January of 2013, and I desire for the people of Grace to see and know Jesus more through worship and the arts. I pray that this would compel us to live worshipful lives and show the hope of Jesus to the world around us.

PASTOR OF DISCIPLESHIP

Scott Wilson

I grew up in Chandler, Arizona. I am married to Shari, and we have raised six children.

I have been a part of the ministry team at Grace Community for many years. I started in 1991 as the Student Ministries Pastor. In 2004, we moved to the St. Louis area to launch and pastor a church that was starting a multi-site ministry. In 2016, we moved back to Tyler, and I began working on the Grace Community School side of the ministry team as the Director of Spiritual Formation. In my current role, I’m serving as the Pastor of Discipleship with a focus on small groups and men’s ministry across all of our campuses.

My deep hope is for everyone at Grace to be intentional about participating in the discipleship journey.

Women’s Ministry Global Director

Teresa Ator

I was born and raised in a small town in Southern California. As the oldest of four children in a single-parent home, I learned to rely on the Lord for my security and salvation at a very early age. I was 5 years old and sitting in a Sunday school class of a sweet little church down the street from my house when I learned about and excitedly received Christ’s love and redemption!

In my early teen years, we joined a little church plant in the same town and began a journey of discovering what being the church really looked like. The people in that community of believers surrounded my family and walked us through many trials, joys, and hard years of life. Men came alongside us as father figures, women mentored and loved each of us daily, and lifetime friendships were formed that impacted our hearts in unbelievable ways. This is one of the reasons God has put such passion and desire in my heart for the church and the family to form a partnership like no other.

I have been married to Randall since 1996, and we have 5 children and an amazing bonus son-in-law! Michelle, Riley, Jake, Nathan, and our “baby” Lainee are our amazing children. Our oldest daughter, Michelle, and her husband, Blake, have blessed us with our very first precious grandson, Owen!

I joined the Grace team in August of 2011, and my deep hope is that families, kids, and leaders would find community and experience the deep redeeming love of Christ in a way that would cause them to grow as disciples who live life on mission for the gospel!

WOMEN'S MINISTRY DIRECTOR - LINDALE

Debra Kirby

I grew up in the DFW metroplex in a single-parent home where we regularly attended church, but I felt like God was far-off and unconcerned with humanity. On the outside, I was a girl who tried to be morally good, but I sought my value in dating relationships and found my purpose in performance. Because God loves me, He allowed my heart to be broken in my twenties, helping me realize that my sin separated me from Him and that He wanted to be present in my life. His unconditional love gave me a new identity and purpose in life.

I met my wonderful husband, Bill, on a blind date on the steps of Grace Lindale. How’s that for a divine relationship? We have two amazing daughters, Emma and Sophie, who love crafting, nature, and all sorts of animals, so it’s little chaotic at home but always fun.

I joined the Grace staff in 2014 and feel like I have the perfect job. I get to encourage women to take the next step in their spiritual journey using God’s Word as our guide. It’s hard to love someone you don’t know. My hope is that women would really know what God is like, His ways and His love for us, and by doing so, find true contentment and purpose in life.

UB Women’s Ministry Coordinator

Megan Taylor

Growing up, my dad worked in the oil field. We moved a few times, but we landed in Palestine, Texas. I was introduced to the Gospel from an early age and was saved at a church event at Mobberly Baptist Church in Longview. I have been at UB since the summer of 2009 and have grown in my understanding of how the gospel changed my life when I was young and how much I still need it every day.

I’m married to Jacob, and we have two kids, Shane and Nolan. They are all my favorite people! We enjoy spending time together as a family. Fun fact about me: I could eat mac and cheese every day!

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2022, and my hope is that women would feel known and accepted at church but also know that they are fully known by their Creator and get equipped to know Him more and more.

COLLEGE PASTOR

Max Heller

I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, with my parents and four siblings. My family started attending church when I was 8 years old. After seeing my parents changed by God, I began having conversations with my dad about faith. I believed and confessed that Jesus is Lord when I was 9, and I was baptized.

My wife, Chrisleigh, and I got married in 2017. We have two boys, Jones and Elliot.

I joined the Grace staff in January of 2018, and my hope for the people of Grace Community Church is that we love God and love our neighbors as we seek to be and make disciples for the glory of God.

Facilities Care Team Lindale / Worship: GSM & College

Andrew Rogers

I grew up in Abilene, Texas, in a family that is deeply rooted in ministry. My grandparents on both sides were in vocational ministry, and my parents consistently found ways to serve in the local church. I came to know Jesus at an early age (7 years old) and quickly took an interest in music ministry which gave me the opportunity to stay involved in community and shaped my faith into what it is today.

I live with two of my friends, Hamilton and Reagan, here in Tyler, and I’ve got a Goldendoodle named Sulley. I love playing pickleball, skiing, and learning more about music. A fun fact about me is that I went through Pine Cove’s discipleship program called the Forge in 2016-2017, and I worked on summer staff there for six summers (2015-2020).

I came to Grace in late 2018 when Adrianne Miller called and asked if I could help on the worship team while UB was looking for a new Worship Leader. I was attending another church at the time but wasn’t currently serving. I came over to help and fell in love with the body of Christ at GCC and its ministry to be disciples who make disciples.

I joined the Grace team in August of 2023, and my hope for the ministries I’ll be involved with is that God would use the skills, talents, and gifts that He’s graciously given us to bring glory to His name and encouragement to His people and beyond.

GRACE STUDENT MINISTRY DIRECTOR

Daniel Edson

I was born and raised in the Piney Woods of North East Texas in a small town outside of Texarkana, where Arkansas bleeds over into Bowie County. (Hence, why I will “call the Hogs” my entire life – WOO PIG!) I grew up in the church and was baptized as a teenager, yet the giving over of my life to the mission of the Gospel was a continual process that journeyed into my college years. Throughout my life, I’ve had several “Lazarus” moments, as I like to call them, where my eyes were opened to a much deeper understanding of God that led to a more intimate relationship with Him.

I enjoy all things sports and music (with my favorite being hip-hop), rooting for all of my favorite teams, a good book with a great cup of coffee, and spending time with my family doing all the things. I like to think of myself as a creative and fixer upper

I was the 1998 OBU Basketball Camp 3-Point Champion. (And turned a triple play in my final high school baseball game. No big deal.)

I’m married to my beautiful and gracious bride, Kameron, and we have an incredible, spunky daughter named Kanyon. We also have a four-legged fur baby named Rayce that we treat as our other child.

I joined the Grace staff in March of 2014, and my heart is dedicated to seeing redemption and reconciliation take place in the lives of those around me. It is my constant prayer that we will see students during their adolescent years come to a deep, rich understanding of the Lord and have an intimate relationship with Him that exalts and glorifies Him for the rest of their lives.

It truly is my deepest heartfelt hope that we launch our students into the next season of life as resilient and dedicated disciples of Jesus who reflect His love where they live, work, and play.

GSM Girls Ministry Director, Old Jacksonville Campus

Destiny Northern

I grew up as a pastor’s kid in Crosby, Texas, in a family that loves God. I surrendered my life to Christ when I was 7 years old, but I realized years later that it was not genuine and gave my life to Christ in the 7th grade. I have been living for the Lord ever since then!

I was born to Rickey & Dana Northern, and I have an older sister whose name is Faith. We all spend lots of time together and love each other very much. My parents have been together since they were teenagers and have been married for over 35 years! I was in the Forge at Pine Cove and attended Grace all year while in the program. In my free time, I enjoy sports (watching and playing), reading, and writing poetry or blogs.

I joined the Grace team in August of 2023, and I hope that the GSM team will grow together as we serve alongside one another at Grace. I also am really hopeful for the growth of GSM. We all have a heart to grow, serve, and lead, and it has been really sweet to see the mutual passion for the Gospel to be shared to students!

G56 Coordinator, Lindale Campus

Janna Mans

I grew up in Louisiana with a super awesome family who shared the love of Christ with me throughout my life! They helped me grow in knowledge and understanding of who God is until I eventually became a follower of Christ.

My husband, Josh, and I met at Sky Ranch in 2019 and moved to Lindale for him to work full time at Sky Ranch in 2022.

I joined Grace staff in January of 2023, and my deep hope for Grace is to see the community continue to be welcomed in and discipled by the local church.

Grace Student Ministry High School Director - Lindale

Dalton Baker

I was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. From a young age, my family attended church regularly. In my junior year of high school, I was challenged to make my faith my own. During this time, I went on a mission trip to Los Angeles where I realized that I needed to place my faith in Jesus. During college, I deepened my faith through community. This process had its ups and downs, but it was necessary in my faith journey.

I married my wife, Sarah, in June of 2020 after we graduated from John Brown University. We have two cats, Cowboy and Boots, that we treat as our children.

I joined the Grace team in January of 2023, and my hope is that students will come to know the love of God through Grace Student Ministry and will be equipped to show God’s love to the world as they launch into the next stage of their lives.

G56 Coordinator, University Blvd Campus

Kylee Ivey

I grew up in Corsicana, Texas, where my family and I attended church. I made my faith my own in high school and college through community.

My parents are Chris and Kari Ivey, and I am the youngest of their four children. I have two older brothers, Matt and Caleb, and one older sister, Jasee.

I joined the Grace staff in January of 2022, and my deep hope is that GSM can be a place where students feel welcomed, encouraged, build intentional friendships, and grow in community where Christ is the center!

GRACE STUDENT MINISTRY JUNIOR HIGH DIRECTOR - LINDALE

Lauren Sarter

I was raised a city-girl in my hometown of Plano but have grown to love the tall pine trees, rolling hills, terrible drivers, & friendly hospitality that only East Texas has to offer. I’m a proud Oklahoma State University grad & a Sky Ranch alumna!

I’m passionate about student ministry because of the incredible role that discipleship played in my own life. I truly began my walk with the Lord as a freshman in high school due to the impact of CRU, a ministry on my campus. After the radical change that discipleship had on my life, I now hope to help students understand the life-changing power of God’s word.

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2019, and my desire is to allow students to see the ways that God is uniquely equipping each of them to build the Kingdom through relationships, just like Christ did. I believe that obedience is a worthy and refining process that becomes even more possible in the context of community, like GSM!

GSM Operations Coordinator

Meg Moser

I grew up in Birmingham, Alabama, with my parents and younger brother. We grew up regularly attending church only on holidays like Easter and Christmas, but it always felt like more of an obligation rather than a delight to be attending corporate worship. When I was in the 8th grade, some friends from school who attended the youth group of our church invited me to go to a Fall Retreat with them. It was there that I heard the speaker present the Gospel through the Romans Road. Having my eyes opened to my depravity and sin, God’s steadfast love for me despite my brokenness, and that out of that love he sent his Son to die on the cross for me, I gave my life to Christ.

Family is pretty simple. It’s just me, my parents, John and Tracy, and my younger brother, Matthew. I’m a Pine Cove girl, and I’m deeply thankful for the ways the Lord has used my six summers serving with that ministry to shape my heart and life. Coming from Alabama, I grew up on college football and watching the Crimson Tide every Saturday, so needless to say, I’m a huge sports girl! I love to watch or play most all sports, but if I had to narrow it down, I’d pick baseball or football every time. I also love to go play pickleball with friends or grab a good cup of coffee and go on a walk.

I joined the Grace team in October of 2023, and my hope for the GSM team is that we stay unified in our pursuit of students and sharing the love of Jesus with them from 5th grade all the way through their senior year. I pray that we would see and accept students right where they are, as Jesus does each of us, and send them out well equipped for a life of following Jesus and serving and loving those around them.

Grace Student Ministry High School Director, OJ Campus

Nathanael Whisman

I was born in Alexandria, Louisiana. We lived right outside New Orleans until I was about 5 or 6, later moving to Katy, Texas, where my parents still live. When I was between 8th grade and 9th grade, I went to the same summer camp I had gone to each summer. It was at this camp that the Gospel message impacted my heart for the first time, and I responded to grace by faith. From that moment on, my life has never been the same.

I am married to Halee, and we have one daughter, Murphee, who was born in 2020. We also have a dog named Banks. Halee works remotely for IF Gathering and stays at home with Murphee. We enjoy a good cup of coffee, watching movies, playing games, and having people in our home.

I joined the Grace Staff in May of 2023, and my hope is to embrace the community here as we engage the Gospel through meaningful relationships in the neighborhood and with teens.

GRACE STUDENT MINISTRY JUNIOR HIGH DIRECTOR, UB CAMPUS

Ryan Fitch

I grew up in the great small town of Mount Vernon, Texas. Growing up, I was always in and around the church, but I never truly understood the Gospel until I was 17. I was at church camp when a faithful preacher taught on John 10. I placed my faith in Jesus after coming to know the depths of my sin and the goodness of God’s grace.

I graduated from Dallas Baptist University in May of 2022 with a B.A. in Biblical Studies, and I recently graduated from the Watermark Institute where I was a Students Resident. I enjoy leading worship and got the opportunity to do that at Pine Cove Shores as a summer staffer. A fun fact about me: My TikTok account landed me a summer job once!

I have two loving parents, John and Dee, and an older sister, Claire, who is married to Jordan Reyes. I am also an uncle to Julia!

I joined the Grace team in June of 2023, and my hope is that the students of GSM desire to live an authentic life in light of the Gospel, being fully known and fully loved.

G56 Coordinator, Old Jacksonville Campus

Zoe Ward

I grew up in Tyler in a Christian home and accepted Christ at a young age. While I was growing up, my parents made sure there were young Christian mentors in my life so I could see young adults who loved Jesus.

Currently, I live with my parents (bless them for letting me move back in after undergrad!) and our two dogs, Rory and Daisy. My sister attends John Brown University in Arkansas. In my free time, I enjoy singing and playing piano and guitar. I worked at Pine Cove for several years, so feel free to ask me about my camp name!

I joined the Grace team in September of 2023, and my deep hope is that my 5th and 6th graders would begin to comprehend their faith in a deeper way, feel safe to ask hard questions, and develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as their Savior.

GRACE K!DS GLOBAL DIRECTOR

Molly Pontius

I spent the first 23 years of my life in the beautiful state of Washington. I grew up with two sisters, and we had an idyllic childhood until our parents divorced. That was a very dramatic and sad time in my life, but it set me up in a unique way to see my brokenness and my need for Jesus.

I have a big energetic family! I’m married to Steve, and it has been the joy of our lives to raise 5 children, Tyler, Landon, Dillon, Michaela, and Reilly. We live in the forest with our two dogs, Klondike and Huckleberry.

I joined the Grace staff in 2012, and it is my deep conviction that Jesus is the answer – for everything! That fuels my desire to make that known to the kids and families who I have the privilege of walking life with each day. I want kids to know that God loves them fiercely and is worthy of their surrender and lifelong pursuit. Likewise, I love equipping parents to be intentional as they model what a Christ follower looks like for their kids.

GRACE K!DS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Alyssa Jacobs

I grew up in Northern California in a small town called El Dorado Hills. When I was 10, my family and I moved across the country to Wilmington, North Carolina, for a few months. When that didn’t work out, we moved back across the country to Las Vegas, Nevada, where we stayed for about 15 years.

I rarely went to church as a child, but as a young teenager, a friend invited me to her youth group, and I fell in love with the people who were in love with their God. They showed me how to love others, honor God, and know Jesus intimately. I began my own relationship with Jesus around the age of 13 and continued being mentored by Christ-loving couples and families in the church. I spent as much time at my church as I could, serving in the nursery and kids’ classes, on the A/V team, and anywhere else they needed me. I was eventually asked to join the staff as the administrative/graphic design/website & app/organizational/anything and everything person. I wore many hats working on our small staff, but I loved helping everything run smoothly.

I love drawing, dogs, coffee, trying new foods, and reading. I am married to my wonderful and talented husband, Aaron, and we have a pretty cute kid named Colson. Aaron and I met as teenagers in our youth group and were eventually baptized, married, and had our baby dedicated all on the same stage! As our family began to grow, we wanted to search for a new home in a new place to raise our kids. While it was painful to say so many goodbyes, we moved our family to Texas in the summer of 2021 and found Grace Community Church a few months later.

I joined the Grace staff in April of 2022. God provided this position in a way that only He could, and I have loved getting to know the amazing team that serves our kids and families. My deep hope is that people would feel loved, connected, and free because of who Jesus is.

Grace K!DS Elementary Coordinator, OJ Campus

Ashley Epperson

I was born and raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in a Christian home. Even though my whole life was centered around church and Christian things, I didn’t fully understand what it meant to have a real relationship with Christ until I was 27 years old. Since then, it has been such an amazing time of growth.

I moved to Longview in 2008 where I met Daren, and we got married in 2011. We moved to Tyler in 2016 for college and started attending Grace Community in 2017. We have three awesome kiddos, Millicent, Shiloh, and Peter.

I joined the team in May of 2023, and my deep hope is that Grace K!DS will be the place where kids see who Jesus is and discover what He has planned for them so that they can share that with the community God has them in.

GRACE K!DS OLD JACKSONVILLE DIRECTOR

Bethanie Taylor

I grew up in a small town a few hours north of Tyler called Sanger. I did not grow up in a home that went to church, but many of my friends did. Starting in the 7th grade, I began staying the night with a friend almost every Saturday just so I could go to church with them on Sunday. When I wasn’t staying with my friend, I was sneaking out of my house Sunday mornings and walking across to the church in front of our house. I didn’t really know what it meant to live a life for Jesus, but I knew I wanted more of the peace and relationships I had while at church.

In 2010, I married the most genuine and loving man, Austin Taylor. Three years into marriage, we started to grow our family and now have two sweet and spunky girls, Violet and Lily Mae.

I was blessed with the opportunity to start working for Grace in the summer of 2018. I want Grace K!DS to be a place that loves our kids well, a safe place for them to talk, and a place that helps them know how much Jesus loves them.

Grace K!DS Community Coordinator, Lindale

Hannah Vasquez

I was raised in a Jesus-following home with 4 siblings and my mom and dad. I lived in Illinois for  first 11 years of life. When I was 9 and at church camp, I realized God’s gift of salvation was even for the least of these (ME!) and accepted Him into my life. He has walked beside me every day since!

I am married to Joe, and we have 3 kids: Miles, Violet, and Josie. We moved from Oregon to Texas in 2022, and we enjoy having family close by in Lindale, Mineola, and Mansfield. I also work as a stylist for Park Lane Jewelry, and this ia big part of my life that brings me a lot of joy and has introduced me to a community of amazing women. In my free time, I enjoy baking, reading, great food, good coffee, and investing in relationships.

I joined the Grace team in July of 2023, and I want to ensure that every child that comes to GKC feels seen, known, and loved. And I desire to see each staff member grow as a child of God and in their position as a leader to the future generations.

GRACE K!DS COMMUNITY SITE COORDINATOR

Ingrid Hogue

I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and I moved to Tyler in 1987. I did not grow up in a Christian home and was not raised in church. We attended the Catholic Church when I was younger but had a falling out with the church, and these circumstances led my family to lose faith in the church and in God.

My husband, Corey, and I got married in 2004. We have two boys, Victor and Anthony. We first came to Grace on Easter Sunday in 2017. I came to know the Lord on March 25, 2018, and Corey baptized me the following year.

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2018, and my deep hope is to help my leaders and my kids to grow stronger and have a better relationship with Jesus. Teaching my girls on Sunday mornings brings me such joy, and as we teach them, we also are learning from them.

Grace K!DS Assistant

Kaitlyn Groth

I grew up in a loving, Christian home in small town Texas. In high school, I truly started making my relationship with Christ personal and dove deep into Biblical truths and beliefs! When my family moved to Lindale, we starting coming to Grace and immediately got involved. I volunteered in the toddler room and fell in love with those sweet babies!

I am currently going to college and majoring in Child Development. I love reading, hanging out with friends, and doing embroidery. I also am a member of both the Apache Marching Band and the Presidential Honors School.

I joined the Grace team in May of 2023, and I hope to make a loving environment where the students learn the love of God and feel comfortable expressing their needs and struggles.

Grace K!DS Elementary Coordinator

Kara Miller

I grew up in a small town outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma, called Mannford. I grew up going to church and was baptized at the age of 8. I can tell you that I didn’t fully comprehend what a relationship with the Lord looked like until later in life, but I have always known the love of Jesus. I was raised in a home where my parents were always serving within the church, and to see my dad studying the Bible before anyone was awake was an everyday occurrence. It wasn’t until I was older that I really understood that a relationship with the Lord is an intimate one, and that it’s exactly that, a relationship. The more intentional you are with a relationship, the deeper it grows.

I was the kid that went to school so that l could play sports. I played softball my whole life, and after high school, I went on to pitch two years at Oklahoma State University (Go Pokes!) and catch two years at The University of Central Oklahoma (Go Bronchos!).  I then assisted at the University of Central Oklahoma for two years before getting married to Eric Miller.

Our story is fun, and I love to tell it because you can see how the Lord’s pieces played out, but the bullet points are: went to high school together, never dated, reconnected years later while he was on leave – he was in the marine corp in AZ, and I was in OK playing ball – saw each other a handful of times and got married on a Monday at noon at the Oklahoma City courthouse. For me, it was perfect. We were able to live together as a married couple for a couple of months, and then he deployed for the final time. We have a lot of story in between then and now, but along the way, we were blessed with three amazing boys, Heath, Ryan, and Blake. My happy place is at home with all my guys.

I joined the Grace staff in February of 2021, and my deep hope is that every Sunday these precious kiddos walk away knowing that they are loved, wanted, and chosen. I pray that they know the love of Jesus and that He loves to hear their voices.

Grace K!DS Coordinator – UB Campus

Kathy Meyer

My family and I moved to Texas from Boston, Massachusetts, when I was 11-years-old. My family is still in the Houston area, but I have been a Tyler resident for over ten years.

I grew up in church, but right around our move to Texas, our family was thrown some major curveballs where I learned to fully trust Jesus and that my hope was in Him!

My husband, Daniel, and I met and started dating when we were 18. It was the week we graduated high school (so just-out-of-high-school sweethearts), and we were summer camp counselors. I tripped over a table, he caught me, and the rest was history! We dated long-distance up until we got married in 2016.

We have two sons, Zeke and Roman, and two little yorkie-poos named Shark and Roomba.

I joined the staff in August of 2022, and my deep hope is that the kids and families that experience Grace K!DS leave feeling loved and known and are encouraged to pursue life with Jesus more.

JOY MINISTRY DIRECTOR - LINDALE

Keisha Yarbrough

I grew up in Lindale, Texas, and I’m a proud wife to Charlie Yarbrough, also an East Texas native. We have three wonderful children, Julianne, Charlie Cale, and Bayleigh. We have been members of Grace Community Church since 2011, and I have had the pleasure of volunteering with special needs kids since 2012. I enjoy being outdoors, exercising, reading, and sharing Jesus with everyone I can.

I came to know Christ at the age of 23 during a book study with some friends. In 2015, I obtained my nursing degree from Tyler Junior College. I continued to work at our local hospital as a neuro-nurse until 2019, going part-time when I began my journey working for Lindale Independent School District. I obtained a certification in special needs through continuing education classes. The Special Needs Certificate recognizes professionals dedicated to promoting quality care in the field of special needs.

I joined the Grace team in 2021, and my hope and prayer for JOY Ministries is to come alongside families with special needs to love and serve not only the kids but their parents as well.

Grace K!DS Director, University Blvd.

Kellie Tice

I grew up southeast of Dallas in a small town called Crandall. I grew up in a wonderful family that loved Jesus. We were very involved in small church, so I always knew who Jesus was and that he loved me. It wasn’t until my teenage years that I realized I did not have a relationship with Jesus and that I needed his forgiveness for my sins. At age 17 at a youth camp I asked Jesus to forgive me of sins and told him I wanted to follow him the rest of my life.

I am married to my wonderful husband, Daniel, and we have three children: Annabelle, Emma, and Danny. We moved to Tyler from the Dallas area during the summer of 2022. Daniel is an Assistant Principal at Three Lakes Middle School in Tyler ISD.

I joined the Grace staff in April of 2023, and myhope and prayer for our Grace K!DS ministry is that we will be kingdom-expanding and heart-transforming. My prayer is that we will come alongside the parents in our church to disciple these kids and help build a foundation of God’s truth in each of their lives.

Grace K!DS Coordinator, Grace Español

Melissa Russell

Biography coming soon

Grace K!DS Preschool Coordinator, Lindale Campus

Nicole Glasscock

I grew up in Palestine, Texas, and found Jesus when I met my husband, Justin. I’ve always known Jesus was there, but I officially dedicated my life to him in 2012.

After graduating from Stephen F. Austin, my husband and I both felt God was calling me to stay home, so I’ve been a stay at home mom in recent years.

Justin and I have three kids, Peyton, Kason, & Karson. We have lots of farm animals and love spending time outside together exploring what God has created!

I joined the Grace team in June of 2023, and my hope is to continue to spread the word of God to children and their parents and to be a light in their lives, helping them feel comfortable dropping their babies off while they connect with Jesus.

Grace K!DS Preschool Coordinator

Rachel Spivey

I grew up in Chicago and moved to Arizona when I was about 12 years old. Growing up, I knew we believed in Jesus but didn’t know much else. We never went to church or really even spoke about God. I started my walk with God when I was a senior in high school. I started getting curious about the word and what it was like to be a Christian, so I asked my mother if we could start going to church. From there on, it was a slow journey, but God is amazing and was with me every step of the way.

The Lord brought a wonderful man into my life who loves Him and encouraged my journey with Him. Aaron and I have been married for 10 years now, and we have 2 incredible little boys, Carson and Lincoln, and a Great Dane, Blu, who thinks he is a lap dog. We decided to move to Tyler when I became pregnant with Carson in 2016, and we started going to Grace when he was about a year old.

I started working with Grace K!DS in January of 2023, and I love getting to walk alongside the children and watch their hearts and minds embrace the Lord.

For preschool age children, it can be hard to separate from mom and dad for an hour every Sunday, so my hope for our program is to give parents ease of mind that their children are being cared for as well as encouraged in their growth with God. I want Grace K!DS to provide an environment that causes children to look forward to Sundays.

ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF MINISTRIES & MISSIONS

Stephen Wickliffe

I’m a native Texan who was born, raised, and spent most of my days growing up in Red Oak, Texas. The first decade and a half of my life was filled with church attendance, cultural Christianity, and knowing about Jesus, but not following Him. Jesus transformed me my senior year of high school as He saved me, and I began to follow Him.

I met my incredible wife, Stephanie, in college. Stephanie and I were married in May of 2003. Since getting married, we started a family with one daughter, Mayleigh (the oldest), and three sons, Asher, Beckett, and Callen.

I joined the Grace staff in March of 2005, and I desire to see neighbors, natives, and nations transformed by the saving grace of Jesus! Who will go? Acts 1:8 tells us we are sent by God. It is a directive for all of us to go. Mission exists (temporarily this side of heaven) because people are not worshiping the one true God.

Missions Operations Director

Sandra Nieves

I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and came to know Jesus at the age of 14 when I heard the message of the cross at youth camp. After that, I began to serve in local missions and eventually in different nations around the world.

I have three kids, Dan, JJ, and Victoria. They are all gifted by the Lord in art and music.

I joined the Grace Staff in May of 2022, and my deep hope is to serve in every area possible with our missionaries and our local community as we mobilize the church to fulfill the great commission through being and making disciples of Jesus.

Grace Español Local Missions Coordinator

Samuel Fuentes

I was born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico but raised in Brooklyn, New York, from the age of 3 to 19. After returning to Puerto Rico at the age of 19, I had a personal encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ.

I have been married to Sonia Y. Marin Jurado for the last 24 years and counting. We have three children and one granddaughter: Samuel Abner, Ruth Sarai, Keren Naomi, and Aleia Zoe. I also have a daughter name Milkah Zoe.

I joined the Grace staff in March of 2023, and my hope is to push the vision and mission of Grace to reach our Hispanic community with the Good News of the Kingdom of God.

PASTOR OF CARE

Shane Barnes

I was born in Midland and grew up in Wichita Falls. My memories of growing up are good ones filled with good friends, Godly adults in my life, loving every minute of playing every sport I could, and experiencing the movement of the Spirit of God in the Lay Witness Mission Movement that continues to impact me even to this day.

Around the age of six, I came to believe in Jesus through the love and witness of my mom, whose godliness and perseverance in following Christ greatly shaped who I became. Even at a young age, all I really wanted to do was to preach Christ and pastor. My theological education has taken me to Dallas Theological Seminary and Southern Methodist University. Along the way, I have served in a variety of settings as a Youth Pastor, an Associate Pastor, and a Senior Pastor.

God has blessed me with two beautiful and incredible daughters who continue to be my heroes in the faith. Sarah is my youngest and lives and works in the DFW Area. Abby lives in the Houston area and is married to Lamaur, and together, I am letting them raise my granddaughter, Diza.

I joined the Grace staff as Youth Pastor back in the 80s, later serving as the Athens Campus Pastor from 2008-2010, and in 2010, I came to our OJ Campus.

My deep hope for Grace Community Church is that we would be ever learning how to ravish others with the reality of the King and His Kingdom, offering to people the greatest opportunity they will have in life. Along the way, may we be living with and learning from Jesus how to lead our lives as He would lead our lives if He were us.

Grace Español Ministry Assistant

Bella Palacios

I was born in Weslaco, Texas, and raised in Tyler. I accepted Jesus in my heart at the age of 13.

My husband, Carlos, and I have four children, Carlitos, Carlie, Cayden, and Camila. I love to cook, host family and friends, and I serve as an ESL teacher at Grace. I am also currently on the Grace Community School Board and the Grace Missions Board. I have been in sales for over 22 years.

I joined the Grace team in June of 2023, and I hope to serve and help ensure smooth operation of the church’s administrative functions as we minister to families and build relationships with the Hispanic Community in Tyler.

Ministry Coordinator to Executive Team

Brittney Hood

I grew up in Tyler in a Christian home. My parents poured their lives into helping and fostering children from difficult home lives, and I learned from an early age what it looks like to give generously of all that we have to open our homes and our lives to others. I became a believer at the age of 7, and as a high school student, God brought people into my life who helped disciple me in my faith. I grew to better understand what it meant to make Jesus Lord of my life. It has been a journey ever since learning to abide in Jesus, trusting and following Him.

I met my husband, Trenton, while attending Baylor University. After many years in Waco, we moved back to East Texas with our three children, Ethan, Emmy, and Truett. We have really enjoyed living closer to both of our families. We love spending time together as a family and with friends, playing games, and going on adventures.

I joined the Grace team in December of 2019 as Women’s Ministry Coordinator for our Tyler campuses and started working full-time in 2020 as I joined the Executive Admin Team as Assistant to the Senior Pastor.

I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to be a part of the Grace team! I love being around people, and it’s a calling and a joy to serve alongside our staff. My deep hope is that we will generously and intentionally pour out our lives to help people feel known, loved, and seen by the Lord.

Administrative Assistant for Adult Discipleship

Mackenzie Fernandes

I grew up in Niantic, Connecticut, a village on the coast of the Long Island Sound. My parents were both Christians and taught me about the Gospel, but I did not have my own personal relationship with Jesus.

It wasn’t until I went through one of the lowest points in my life at my first college that I finally called out to God. I then transferred to Cedarville University where I learned a lot about Christianity. I cannot recall the exact moment I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior, but prior to being baptized in June of 2019, I professed that truth. It is such a special memory!

I grew up with four brothers and one sister. They are all still residing in Connecticut. I met my husband, Guilherme Fernandes, at Cedarville. We both transferred to the school the same year and ended up in class together. We connected because we were both on the university soccer teams. We were married on July 30, 2022.

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2022, and I hope that adults at Grace can not only be discipled but also learn how to disciple others for God’s glory.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT & GUEST SERVICES, UNIVERSITY BLVD.

Chelsea Jacobs

I grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, and was always familiar with Jesus but never truly saw my need for Him. Through hardships and a lot of big life changes, the people in my life pointed me toward God. Once I decided to truly follow Him, my life was filled with so much hope and peace! Hard things still happen, but God continues to be my hope in the midst of trials.

I am married to my best friend, David, and we have a beautiful little girl, Harper. She brings us so much joy and is a constant reminder of God’s faithfulness!

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2021, and my greatest hope is that Grace Community Church would be an authentic community that loves God and people. I pray that anyone who walks through our church doors would feel welcomed and truly seen!

WORSHIP COORDINATOR

Heather Cornelison

I was born in Houston, Texas. When I was in the 3rd grade, my family moved to Whitehouse. I came to know the Lord at the age of 9 during a revival at Sylvania Baptist Church where my mom and I attended church together.

In October of 2001, I married my husband, Alan. We do not have kids, but we have a cat named Cali who we love like a child.

I joined the Grace staff in April of 2012, and my deep hope for the worship ministry is that we will continue to lead the congregation to the throne of Jesus, becoming more in love with Him on a daily basis, not just on Sundays.

Guest Services Coordinator, Old Jacksonville Campus

Heather Reed

I was born and raised here in Tyler in a Christian home. I grew up in the church and came to know Christ at an early age. I remember telling my dad one night that I felt I had a whole in my heart, and I received Christ as my savior that night.

I attended Pine Cove as a Baby Ruth, and that is where I truly experienced discipleship and felt like I made my faith my own.

I’m married to my husband, Burren, and we have three kids, Lemuel, Amelia, and Silas. We love meeting others and spending time outside. You can find us on the farm most days!

I joined the Grace team in September of 2023, and I’m excited to be part of the welcome experience! My hope is that the Lord uses me to be a light to those seeking to know more about Grace and to help them get connected.

Guest Services Coordinator – Lindale

Amanda Johnson

I grew up in Houston and was raised in the Catholic church. We attended religiously, and I went through all of the steps of the church: baptism, first communion, and confirmation. In high school, I joined my best friend at the Baptist church and my boyfriend at the Pentecostal church while still attending the Catholic church with my family (I promise this isn’t the start of a terrible joke). It was at that time that I started contemplating different elements of each church and thinking about my personal walk with Christ.

It wasn’t until after college (Gig ‘em Aggies!) that I started to search for a church home and really investigate my relationship with God. For a long time, I felt like I wasn’t a “good enough Christian” because I didn’t have any Bible verses memorized and didn’t know the order of the books of the Bible. I let that hold me back for quite some time.

Then, someone I highly respected personally and spiritually asked me to lead a Bible study because she knew I “loved the Lord” and that was the only reason! After quickly responding “NO! ARE YOU CRAZY?!” I apologized and thought maybe there is a reason I’m being asked. Even though I was shocked and completely unsure of what I had to offer, I took on the challenge. I have grown so much since then, and I love digging into the Word with women every week and could not imagine my life without it.

In February of 2020, my husband, Chris, got a job in Tyler, so we moved here with our kids, Case & Avery. We didn’t know a soul in East Texas, so I joined a women’s Bible study at Grace (a church I had found on Google). I was never a good student growing up, but participating in women’s Bible studies made me crave the Word and crave the Lord’s presence in my life.

I joined the Grace staff in the summer of 2022 and like to call myself the social director of Grace Lindale. I love welcoming guests and finding ways to get them connected. As adults, it can be so difficult to go someplace new and feel welcome. My hope is that I can make the process a little easier and offer a friendly face as guests come into the building and get settled into a potential church home.

Associate Campus Development Director

Lacey Garner

I grew up in Houston and was raised in a home where I was introduced to Jesus at a young age and chose to trust Him when I was young. In college, I was a summer staffer at Pine Cove Camps, and that was when I started to really understand the Gospel and that the grace given to us through Jesus meant that I didn’t need to strive for holiness.

I’m married to Jesse (sometimes you’ll see him on the worship team at OJ), and we have two children, Keldon and Rose.

I joined the Grace staff in 2013 as a Grace K!DS staffer. I took a few years at home when I had my kids, and then I transitioned to the role of Guest Experience Director in 2018.

My deep hope is for Grace to be a healing, encouraging, and refreshing place for our guests, whether they spend one weekend with us or choose to make Grace their church home. I love to know people, so even if you’re not new to Grace and we haven’t met, come say hello at Guest Services!

Director of Security Operations

Andra White

I was born and raised in the Chandler community, where I have lived my entire life. I grew up in a small country church I attended with my grandparents. Because of their godly influence in my life, I came to know the Lord at the age of 5. I watched them faithfully serve the Lord my entire life, giving me a strong desire to do the same.

I am married to Pete, my high school sweetheart, and we have two amazing kids, Colby and Carly.

I joined the Grace staff in February of 2013 as the Operations Director for Grace K!DS. In 2020, I became part of the Operations staff for the church and the school. It is my desire to use the gifts the Lord has given me to serve others in whatever way I can.

Senior Director of Finance & Accounting

Tonya Boyd

I graduated from Lindale, and all of my family is from the Lindale & Mineola areas. Growing up, I attended elementary school in South Louisiana, but summers were always spent in East Texas. My mom was a single mom and worked 3 jobs, so my grandparents took my sister and I to church on Sundays.

When I was in high school, I spent most of my spare time at the home of my best friend, Lana Wells. Her parents, Ron and Beth, loved on me, ministered to me, and treated me like family (and Ron taught me to drive a standard…a rare thing to know these days).  I soon started attending youth group at FBC Lindale. No one from my family attended there, but my friends did. One Sunday evening during service, an invitation was given, and my heart was beating out of my chest. The Lord took hold of my heart, soul, and mind, and I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior.

My twenties were filled with hard lessons, heartbreak, lots of night classes at UT Tyler and learning to listen to God. I thank Him for bringing my husband, David, and his son, Dylan, into my life when I turned 30. Dylan was only five years old when I met David. and I actually fell in love with Dylan first (it’s true). David and I married in October of 2003, and along the way, we welcomed two daughters, Addison and Rachel. Dylan is a graduate of Texas Tech University, Addison is homeschooled, and Rachel attends GCS. Our family enjoys camping and spending time at home. After serving on the praise team at Clearview Church for many years, I now attend Mt. Sylvan Baptist Church. I am a CPA and worked in banking for 22 years.

I joined the Grace Community School staff in June of 2017 and began serving as Interim Director of Finance and Accounting in March of 2023. My deep hope is to serve the Lord with true gladness, humility, and positivity, giving hope to everyone I meet in my days at Grace Community. My desire is for the Lord to guide me to love others well and partner with them both in business and in ministry.

Director of Church Accounting

Evan Burns

I was blessed to be raised within a Christian home in a small town in southwest Washington, and I came to know Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior in middle school. During my college years, my faith wavered, and I distanced myself from Christ. Wanting to find community after moving to a large city in Washington, I returned to church. The church I started to attend was where I met my wife, Elisabeth.

Elisabeth and I got married in 2008 and moved to Arizona. We had our first and only child, Elliesa, in 2014. After her birth, we moved back to Tacoma, Washington, to be closer to family.

My family and I were visiting Tyler in hopes to relocate, and our last day here, a recruiter reached out to me about a position with a church. I was planning to have a phone interview, but later that morning, we decided to extend our trip so I could meet and interview in person. And here we are!

I officially joined the Grace team in May of 2023, and my hope for my area at Grace is to provide clarity and transparency of the stewardship of the resources bestowed to Grace to further the Kingdom of God here in Tyler and globally.

Accounting Specialist

Matthew Evans

I grew up in Tyler and attended Green Acres Baptist Church. At the age of seven, I accepted Jesus into my heart as my Lord and Savior.

I later moved to San Marcos to pursue a degree in Business Administration from Texas State University. After graduating in May of 2019, I moved to San Antonio where I worked as a civilian for the US Air Force.

I have a younger sister named Lauren who studies Psychology and works with young children. I also have two step siblings, Wyatt and Bailey Chalmers. I grew up participating in Boy Scouts, and I played several different sports when I was younger. Fun fact: I am a huge baseball fan, and a goal of mine is to visit every MLB stadium in the US.

I joined the Grace team in June of 2023, and my hope is that we cultivate an environment of support, gratitude, and love as we serve Him in our work.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE SPECIALIST

Shavon Hayes

Accounting Project Coordinator

Shelley Sawyer

I grew up in a small town south of Houston and moved to East Texas after high school. I love Jesus; He is the hope that flows in my every breath. I was blessed to be raised in church by Godly parents who taught me to pray and to hang on to God in all circumstances. That anchor led me back to Christ after I was married.

My husband, Rick, and I have three kids, Olivia, Desiree, and Shawn.  We love fishing and hanging out together as a family and working in our wood shop.

I joined the Grace staff in September of 2016, and my hope for Grace Community Church is that the East Texas Community would feel the love of Jesus that is encompassed in the hearts of our staff and our church.

AUDIO/VISUAL DIRECTOR - OLD JACKSONVILLE

Alan Cornelison

I grew up right here in Tyler and came to know Jesus after my family started attending Grace. I started learning more in my Sunday school class about how we are all sinners and need God in our lives, and I began to feel God prompting me to give my life to Him.

I am a long-time musician and really love working with technical things in the audio-visual area. I am blessed to be able to work alongside my wife, Heather, who is also part of our Grace team.

I joined the Grace staff in June of 2013, and I desire for the audio-visual department to serve all the needs of Grace with excellence in a non-distracting way so our congregations and community can worship and learn more from God’s word.

AUDIO/VISUAL TECH - UNIVERSITY BLVD.

Andrew Peacock

I grew up in Tyler and was raised in the church. I first professed faith in Christ and was baptized at the age of six. My faith became an important part of my life when I was in high school, and someone began to intentionally disciple me.

After college, I spent four years as a touring sound engineer for a Christian band. We led worship for countless student camps, disciple nows, and church worship services. During this time, I became connected with Grace Community Church. I eventually applied for a position at the University Blvd. Campus and joined their staff in the fall of 2013.

In addition to my staff role, I’m heavily involved with GSM as a small group leader to high school boys. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, adventures, and cooking.

My hope for A/V at Grace is that we would leverage technology and creativity to point the church toward Jesus and engage them in worship of Him.

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE & COMMUNICATIONS

John Ray Morales

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. I grew up going to church, and at the age of 11, I experienced God’s saving grace and became a disciple of Jesus. Soon after, while on a mission trip, I felt God calling me to use my artistic gifts to share Jesus. Music and children’s ministry work have given me the opportunity to visit and serve in 25 countries so far.

I have a Masters Degree in Strategic Communications and am thankful to God for the  opportunities He’s given me to put that to use to impact His kingdom.

I’m married to Tania, and we have four children. Meet “The AJ’s”, Aslan, Abriana, Aidan and Ander. We’ve lived in Tyler since 2013.

I joined the Grace Community Church Communications Team in February of 2021, and my deep hope is that God will use the creative and strategic content we share through all our communications media to bring people closer to Jesus.

Senior Designer and Brand Specialist

Keziah Sanchez

Media and Communication Manager

Ryan Peterson

I grew up in Wichita, Kansas, and found Jesus and was baptized when I was 11 years old.

We moved to Tyler in 2009 when I became Sports Director at KLTV-7. I was a sportscaster for 12 years, and I left broadcasting in 2015.

I married my wife Melissa in 2008, and we have two daughters, Isabella (Izzy) and Daniella. We began going to Grace Community Church in 2011 when Tyler really became our home.

I joined the Grace staff in February of 2021, and my passion is meeting new people and hearing their stories. My deep hope is that our videos and communication projects will glorify God and bring hope to those hurting and needing the hope of Jesus.

Graphic Designer

Bailey Paniszczyn

I grew up in the great state of Texas. Fort Worth was my home up until I graduated from high school.

I am blessed to have been raised by wonderful Christian parents who raised me in a loving Christian home. First Baptist Church of Keller is where I gave my life to Christ at the young age of eight years old.

I have always had a love for the arts, which led me to study graphic design. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree of Design from the York/Sheridan School of Design in 2022. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, biking, traveling, baking, and shopping for vintage clothing and antiques.

I joined the Grace team in August of 2023, and my hope is to elevate the Grace brand by creating fun and original content for all ministries. I want to use my skills to uplift the Lord and to shine a light on His Presence.

HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR

Gerry Deese

I grew up in a non-Christian home in Tacoma, Washington, and my future husband, Wayne, led me to the Lord. We have two grown boys, Seth and Brian.

I joined the Grace staff in June of 1998, and my hope is to help staff understand and use the benefits that Grace provides them.

DIRECTOR OF STAFF CARE & ENGAGEMENT

Heather Simonds

I grew up in Tyler, Texas, with my mom and sisters. My parents divorced when I was young, and my dad lived in Saudi Arabia, so I only saw him once a year. I was not raised in church but did have strong Christian influences in my life and began attending a church youth group with a neighborhood friend. I accepted Christ as my Savior the summer after my 7th grade year at youth camp after learning of His unconditional love for me.

My husband, Chip, and I were married in 2001, and we have two kids, Ellie and Grayson.

I joined the Grace Staff in August of 2009 as the Girls Ministry Director and transitioned to my current role of Director of Staff Care and Engagement in September of 2020. I am also working toward my Master of Science in Mental Health & Wellness.

I am passionate about leading efforts to nurture culture and staff engagement along with people development. I also have the honor of leading the spiritual formation of the Grace Early Education team. My heart’s beat is to be a pursuer of people just as God has so passionately pursued me!

HR Administrative Assistant

Kristi Bellamy

I grew up in Bossier City, Louisiana, in a family of four. My parents, Norvel and Barbara, always had my younger brother, Kris, and I involved in church activities. In 1977, I invited Jesus in my heart on a Sunday Morning at Southside Baptist Church, followed in believers baptism, and have been a Christ follower ever since.

I met my husband, Andy, at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and we were married in June of 1993. We moved to Tyler in January of 1997 and made it our home. Andy passed away suddenly in February of 2022 after 28 years of marriage. We have two wonderful children. Our daughter, Ashton, is a 2023 graduate from Samford’s McWhorter School of Pharmacy in Birmingham, Alabama. Our son, Andrew, is a PhD Candidate of History at Rutgers in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The family favorite is the almost 14-year-old, four-legged fur baby, Lilli Lamb. Our two children attended Grace Community School. While they were there, I was able to substitute, work as the lunchroom supervisor, and serve an aide for 5th grade.

In my free time, I enjoy going on long runs, walking Lilli, doing word searches, and spending time with family and friends.

I joined the Grace Staff in May of 2023, and my hope is that God will shine through me as a vessel of encouragement to others and reflect the JOY He has given in me. May I be a blessing to those I serve in the office, on the phone, or in any other capacity.

Human Resources Coordinator

Latoscha Landrum

I grew up in Lufkin, Texas, and I first came to know Jesus while attending church with my family while I was young.

I joined the Grace team in January of 2023, and I hope to assist in the development of people into what they were called by God to do.

DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY

Jon Davie Osteen

I was born in Texas and raised for a few years in Saudi Arabia before we made our way back to Texas.  I grew up in the church and have been in a ministry-supporting role all my life.

I married Robin in December of 1999, and we have six children: Sarah, Haven, Rachel, Israel, Samuel, and Jeremiah      .

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2007, and my deep hope is that we would exemplify Stephen in Acts 6.

MAINTENANCE DIRECTOR

Bob King

I was born in Rockford, Illinois, and mostly raised in Beloit, Wisconsin. I am one of six siblings, and spent most of my school years working with my dad in the maintenance and remodeling business. I love spending time with my family, playing disc golf, fishing, hunting, and hiking.

In 1982, I moved to Texas and took a maintenance job at an apartment complex, and that is where I met my wife, Carol. We have been married since 1987 and have two sons, Robby and Brett.

I joined the Grace Staff in September of 2019, and my hope is for us to serve together as a team for God’s Kingdom.

Maintenance Supervisor - Old Jacksonville & Lindale

Ezra Sanchez

Biography coming soon

Maintenance Supervisor - University Blvd

Matt Nussbaum

Biography coming soon