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 visitor 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. If you were the only person on earth, He still would have gone to the cross for you.
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 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 visitors feel the same warmth and belonging I felt when I first came to our church.
Stewardship Ministry Director