I serve as the Pastor of Spiritual Formation, helping lead our adult discipleship ministries- Growth Groups, Bible Studies, and other ways for people to grow deeper in their walk with Christ. What I love most about serving at Union is helping build a community where people are connected to each other and to God.

I’m originally from Powell, Tennessee, and I graduated from Powell High School and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. My wife, Katie, and I have two daughters, Maelyn and Lynlee, who keep life fun and full of energy. I grew up in church but truly placed my faith in Christ during my freshman year at Tennessee Tech, when God used a group of men in FCA to open my eyes to a real relationship with Him.

I serve as the Worship Leader, which for me means staying prayerful, flexible, and always open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. If I’m going to lead others in worship, I know I must be truly worshiping myself. Music has been a part of my life since I was young- my mom was a well-known gospel pianist and music teacher who first encouraged me to get involved. I’ve been part of the worship ministry at Union since 2017, and when I began sensing the Lord calling me to a worship leader role, He opened the door right here. Looking back, I can clearly see how He was preparing me for this.

My wife, Carla, and I have been married for 18 years, and between us we have four children- Patrick, Christian, Brooke, and Chyna- and several wonderful grandchildren who bring us so much joy. A verse that means a lot to me is Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” I’m constantly amazed that God would save someone like me. When I’m not serving, I love bass fishing, boating, and spending quiet days at home with Carla. Recently, I really enjoyed Essential Christianity: The Heart of the Gospel in Ten Words by J.D. Greear—it’s a powerful reminder of what the Gospel truly means. My hope is that every guest who walks through our doors experiences the same warm welcome Carla and I felt and see the love of Jesus in action.

I serve as the Student Ministry Director here at Union, where I get to teach and invest in our youth on Wednesdays and Sundays. Before moving to Tennessee in 2024, I lived in Oklahoma for 26 years, and that’s where my faith journey began. I came to know Jesus at a young adult camp in Oklahoma where He completely transformed my life!

My favorite local restaurant is Anaba Japanese Cuisine—it’s the perfect spot for ramen and sushi. A book I’ve really enjoyed recently is Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes. When people visit our church, I hope they feel welcomed by a body of believers who truly love God and love their neighbors. And if I could tell someone visiting for the first time one thing, it would be this: Jesus loves you, He died for you, and He longs to have a relationship with you. 

I serve as the Elementary Ministry Director, helping lead our Children’s Sunday School, Children’s Worship, and Midweek activities. I’ve always had a deep love for children and a desire to help them connect God’s Word to their everyday lives. Their hearts are so open in these early years, and I feel honored to help lay a strong foundation for their faith.

I’m a Knoxville native and a proud UT alum. My husband, Craig, and I have been married for 34 years, and we have two grown daughters- Anna and Rachel- and our son-in-law, Bryce. A verse that continually anchors me is Romans 8:28. It reminds me that God is always working for our good, even when I can’t see the full picture.

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me reading. I love Jane Austen, English history, and a good mystery. And if I can sneak away to the beach, even better. One book I’ve loved recently is None Like Him by Jen Wilkin- it puts who we are in the right perspective of who God is.

What excites me most about our church’s future is watching our children grow up and step into the roles God has for them. I can’t wait to see how He uses their lives.

I’m the Music Ministry Director here, and I get to lead our Worship Choir and take care of the behind-the-scenes details of the music ministry. I have such a passion for worship that glorifies God and stays true to Scripture- not just in what we sing, but in how we live every day. I absolutely love encouraging our church to lift their voices in praise! I’m from Knoxville, Tennessee, and yes…I bleed orange!

A verse that really speaks to me right now is 1 Peter 4:11- it reminds me to let go of control and depend on God’s strength in everything I do. When I’m not at church, you can usually find me on the golf course with my husband, dad, and son. I may not hit as far as they do, but I catch up when they’re searching for their balls in the creek! I’m so excited about what God is doing in our church and community as we grow together in unity and hunger for His Word. My favorite coffee spot is anywhere I can share a cup with my husband, and a book that’s encouraged me lately is Putting Your Past Behind You by Erwin W. Lutzer.

I work in the church office as the Ministry Coordinator, where I help keep things organized and running smoothly- updating documents, creating graphics, helping with events, preparing our monthly newsletter, and managing social media. I’m originally from the Tri-Cities area but have called Knoxville home for over ten years now. A verse that’s especially meaningful to me is Luke 1:45, which reminds me that God always fulfills the plans He has for our lives.

When I’m not working, I love photography, cheering on the Vols at UT sporting events, and spending time with my family. My favorite coffee spots right now are Summer Moon and Wren House- so good! I’m really excited to see the next generation grow and follow God’s plan for their lives. My hope is that every visitor feels God’s presence through worship, the message, and the people here. Everyone is so welcoming, and there’s truly a place for everyone here at Union!

Ministry Assistant

I serve as a Ministry Assistant, which simply means I’m here to help wherever I’m needed. One of the things I love most about working at Union is the staff- we have such a fun, supportive environment, and everyone genuinely cares for one another.

I’ve been married to my best friend for 41 years. We have three adult children- a daughter and two sons- and seven wonderful grandchildren, five girls and two boys. They’re truly the joy of my life.

A verse that has been especially meaningful to me lately is Matthew 7:7-8. It keeps showing up in my devotional time, reminding me to seek Jesus first and to trust what He says.

When it comes to local spots, I’d have to say Twister’s- I love their omelets, and their ice cream is even better!

I’m excited to see how our church continues to grow and serve the community around us. My hope is that every guest feels welcomed the moment they walk through our doors.

I’ve felt called to serve in children’s ministry since I was a young adult. The Lord opened the door for me to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education, and I’ve been blessed with many opportunities to serve in Christian children’s programs over the years. UBC has been a wonderful place to serve because this church truly loves children and families—it has always been a priority here.

I’ve lived in Knoxville my whole life and have been married to my husband, Mark, for almost 40 years. We have two grown sons, Josh and Nick. I’m also a proud VFL and love all things UT sports! I grew up playing tennis and golf, and I still enjoy being active. I was saved at 12 years old, and my parents played a huge role in shaping my love for Christ. Over the years, Mark has been a tremendous influence on my dedication to the church and my walk with the Lord.

When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family, being out on the lake, cooking, and watching sports. My hope is that every guest who walks into UBC feels loved, welcomed, and part of a family.

I serve as the Preschool Director and also oversee our Parent’s Day Out program. When my boys started middle school, I thought I’d go back to work full-time- but God had other plans! I asked Him for ways to serve, and He’s been faithful ever since. I’m originally from South Knoxville, and it still makes me laugh that I once wondered why anyone would live out this far- now I live on that very same road!

I grew up in church and accepted Christ as my Savior at 16, but it wasn’t until my late 20s that my relationship with Him became real and personal. That season changed everything- and it’s also when I met my husband. When I’m not at church, I love spending time with my boys, baking, reading, gardening, and sewing. My favorite verse is Psalm 139:14, which reminds me that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. As a mom to a special needs child, it’s a beautiful reminder that every person has purpose and is deeply loved by God. More than anything, I hope guests feel the same warmth and belonging I felt when I first came to our church.

Stewardship Ministry Director

When I’m not working, I love to read, spend time with my Bible study group, enjoy water aerobics, and I’m even relearning how to crochet. I’m a widow with one son, who spends half the year in Ohio and half in Switzerland as the Executive Vice President of Bath & Body Works International. A verse that brings me so much peace is Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.” It reminds me to rest in His presence.

For anyone visiting Union, my encouragement is to jump into at least one activity right away. It’s the best way to get connected, build relationships, and truly become part of the church family.