Leadership
Elders
In the New Testament Scriptures, the leaders of the local church are variously called elders, pastors, and overseers. The words are used interchangeably in Scripture (see Acts 20:25-32; 1 Pet. 5:1-2) to show that the leadership of the church should be a single-layer structure of godly men, accountable to each other, the Scriptures, and, of course, ultimately to God. Together this "multitude of counselors" (Proverbs 24:6) shepherd the flock of God, spiritually and practically.
This means that elders are pastors and pastors are elders, though some are paid for their time given to the church and some are not (1 Timothy 5:17); some are freed up from external jobs, able to devote full-time work to the ministry, and some juggle full-time jobs with their shepherding responsibilities. Some elder-pastors will serve in more prominent roles (such as the teaching ministry), while others will serve less in less visible areas. With a variety of gifts, each elder offers a unique contribution to his specific area of ministry. Regardless of each elder's role and prominence, the New Testament models a plurality of equal leaders.
Deacons
In the New Testament Scriptures, there are two offices in the local church: pastors (or elders) and deacons. The deacon is a "servant" office (this is what the Greek word "deacon" means, and what we see in Acts 6 with the first deacons). However, it is also a managerial office: deacons lead others in an area of service. In Acts 6:3 "the seven" (deacons) were put "in charge" of a task. The seven of Acts 6:3 may have helped to manage around three thousand in the church at that time.
In Acts 6 we see areas that require some form of leadership, such as problem-solving and peace-making, related to an area that starts in the material realm (in this case, taking care of the needs of widows). Again, deacons give attention to more practical needs of the body. This frees up elders for the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4). Though the needs that deacons respond to often start in the material realm, the ministry often mingles physical and spiritual needs. For example, "complaints" are handled (Acts 6:1), Stephen preaches (Acts 7), Philip preaches (Acts 8), and deacons "hold fast the mystery of the faith" (1 Timothy 3:9).
Staff
In the New Testament Scriptures, the leaders of the local church are variously called elders, pastors, and overseers. The words are used interchangeably in Scripture (see Acts 20:25-32; 1 Pet. 5:1-2) to show that the leadership of the church should be a single-layer structure of godly men, accountable to each other, the Scriptures, and, of course, ultimately to God. Together this "multitude of counselors" (Proverbs 24:6) shepherd the flock of God, spiritually and practically.
This means that elders are pastors and pastors are elders, though some are paid for their time given to the church and some are not (1 Timothy 5:17); some are freed up from external jobs, able to devote full-time work to the ministry, and some juggle full-time jobs with their shepherding responsibilities. Some elder-pastors will serve in more prominent roles (such as the teaching ministry), while others will serve less in less visible areas. With a variety of gifts, each elder offers a unique contribution to his specific area of ministry. Regardless of each elder's role and prominence, the New Testament models a plurality of equal leaders.
Tim Bradley
Counseling/Children/Family
Elder and Staff
Counseling/Children/Family
Elder and Staff
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I have lived in Albuquerque for most of my life, but took an eight year detour through Las Cruces where I spent three years in school at New Mexico State University, worked, married, and lived life with my wife, friends, and church family. I returned to Albuquerque in the fall of 1996, earned my BBA from the University of New Mexico, worked, watched our family grow, and have lived here ever since. I am the seventh of eight children with two older sisters, four older brothers, and one younger brother. I was saved by God's grace and calling in my first semester at NMSU, and grew by grace through participation in campus ministries and the local church. I am humbled and blessed to have walked with the Lord for twenty years now, and serve Him in my family, community, and DSC. I married my incredible wife, Marce, in the summer of 1995, and we have been blessed with five children. Our oldest is deceased, then we have four in the home: son Kade, daughter Addison, son Quinn, and son Tate, "The fruit of the womb is a reward" (Psalm 127:3b). We love outdoor activities, light saber fights, and tickling. We also like remodeling our house (my prior line of work) and just all around building and breaking stuff (although Marce doesn't really like the messes made when breaking stuff). Marce and I started attending DSC (formerly Riverview Fellowship) in November 1996. We have participated in many studies and community groups, served during Vacation Bible School (VBS), and led men's huddles and counseling classes. Marce loves serving in the Elementary and Nursery ministries, VBS, and Meal Ministry.
Ron Giese
Administration / Leadership Development
Elder and Staff
Administration / Leadership Development
Elder and Staff
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I was born in Madison, Wisconsin. Up until a senior in high school, I thought that it was through our own good intentions and actions that we got closer to God. The cross and person and work of Jesus were not in my thinking in any way. A friend started telling me that the answer was in the Bible, and kept bringing me to who Jesus was and what He did on the cross. Looking back now, I can see that God's good Spirit revealed truth to me that I had never considered, nor was able to consider with my own efforts. I trusted in Christ's finished work, His paying the penalty for my sins, and sensed a new life that has been with me ever since. Eventually, I returned to Madison there for graduate school to study Hebrew at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After a Ph.D. there, I taught Hebrew and biblical studies for seventeen years at Liberty University (Lynchburg, Virginia) and the seminary there. I enjoyed several administrative roles at Liberty, and when DSC had a staff opening for an administrative pastor, I was ready for a change. After our first visit, I fell in love with DSC: its focus on God's glory, its interest in missions, the staff, and the people. Thus we ended up moving here in January 2007. My wife Karla is a family nurse practitioner, now specializing in endocrinology. We have three children, Danielle and Ben, who are still in Virginia, and our youngest, Jared, still with us here and at UNM. I like reading, studying history, travel, missions, and hiking and bike riding around Albuquerque.
Carlos Griego
Redemption Church Planter
Elder and Staff
Redemption Church Planter
Elder and Staff
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I am a born and raised native of Albuquerque and a graduate of the University of New Mexico. I grew up in the Roman Catholic church, but never understood what I was supposed to believe and when I graduated high school, I departed from all religion. During high school, I got involved in drugs and alcohol, which continued into my college life. During college, I worked for the UNM Men's Basketball team as a manager and later video coordinator. I was also heavily involved in the party scene and was many times on the edge of failing out of school. I did not want anything to do with "religion" and thought that if I believed in God, I would be ok and on my way to heaven. It was while working for the basketball team, that God saved me. I was working for Coach Ritchie McKay and Scott Didrickson who shared the gospel with me and prayed and loved me. In the fall of 2002, I became a Christian. It has been a messy road since then, full of learning, humility, and God's grace. I am now married to Lauren and we currently have three children, our daughter Jordyn and sons Brayden and Cody. I now pray God will use me in others lives to see how beautiful and what a treasure Jesus is! God has called me to plant Redemption Church in Rio Rancho and plans are being made for DSC to send my family and I out to plant in 2012.
Ryan Kelly
Teaching/Preaching
Elder and Staff
Teaching/Preaching
Elder and Staff
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I grew up in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. It was in my junior of high school that God powerfully and savingly revealed to me His saving grace. Not long after, I attended Liberty University, graduating with a B.S. in Religion in 1996. It was that summer that I married my "sunshine," Sarah.
I stayed at Liberty for my seminary education in no small part because I had the chance to serve on the staff of our home church and Sarah was invited to teach piano in Liberty’s music department. After a busy two years, I finished with an M.A.R. and an M.Div.
In 1998, we moved to Oxford, England where I began doctoral studies in historical theology. Sadly, we were forced to move to back to the States in 1999 when we could no longer fund the high cost of Oxford tuition and living. Just the same, our time in England confirmed that I had a far greater desire to pastor and preach than to research and teach.
From 1999-2003 I did just that, pastoring in a small church context in Denver, Colorado (Sarah’s home town).
In August 2003 God provided the wonderful opportunity to come to DSC and serve as the Pastor for Preaching. We love Albuquerque and DSC, and hope, if God wills, to be here for a long time.
Somewhere along the way, I also returned to my doctoral studies, now through Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. My research is in the history of intellectual thought, focusing on the theology of the Puritan John Owen (1616-83). Lord willing, my dissertation should be completed and defended sometime in 2012.
In addition to pastoring and occasional educational efforts, I serve as a Council Member of The Gospel Coalition and help lead the NM Regional Chapter of The Gospel Coalition.
Sarah and I are blessed with four wonderful kids: Autumn, Katelyn, Gillian, and William. Our home is a busy and happy one, by God’s grace. In our spare time we enjoy a very disparate blend of music, reading, dirt biking, hockey, and laughing.
I stayed at Liberty for my seminary education in no small part because I had the chance to serve on the staff of our home church and Sarah was invited to teach piano in Liberty’s music department. After a busy two years, I finished with an M.A.R. and an M.Div.
In 1998, we moved to Oxford, England where I began doctoral studies in historical theology. Sadly, we were forced to move to back to the States in 1999 when we could no longer fund the high cost of Oxford tuition and living. Just the same, our time in England confirmed that I had a far greater desire to pastor and preach than to research and teach.
From 1999-2003 I did just that, pastoring in a small church context in Denver, Colorado (Sarah’s home town).
In August 2003 God provided the wonderful opportunity to come to DSC and serve as the Pastor for Preaching. We love Albuquerque and DSC, and hope, if God wills, to be here for a long time.
Somewhere along the way, I also returned to my doctoral studies, now through Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. My research is in the history of intellectual thought, focusing on the theology of the Puritan John Owen (1616-83). Lord willing, my dissertation should be completed and defended sometime in 2012.
In addition to pastoring and occasional educational efforts, I serve as a Council Member of The Gospel Coalition and help lead the NM Regional Chapter of The Gospel Coalition.
Sarah and I are blessed with four wonderful kids: Autumn, Katelyn, Gillian, and William. Our home is a busy and happy one, by God’s grace. In our spare time we enjoy a very disparate blend of music, reading, dirt biking, hockey, and laughing.
Tim Ragsdale
Local Missions
Elder
Local Missions
Elder
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My wife Lisa, our children (Jenna, Leslye, Jonathan, and Keith), and I came to Albuquerque in 2001 as my final duty station in the U.S. Air Force. Now retired from the USAF and working as a defense contractor, we are thrilled to be able to put down roots in Albuquerque. I was raised in White Oak, Texas where I had strong men (of conviction) influencing my life—particularly coaches. I cannot recall a time in my life when I did not sense God's call. I made a profession of faith in high school and began a roller-coaster faith journey. Now I recall this as God bringing me "the scenic route" to where I am today—still repenting, believing, learning, and growing. In 1980, I was blessed to become part of the Calvary Chapel movement where I learned to love the Word of God and gained valuable ministry experience (taught the new believers class, ran a ministry to Jehovah's Witnesses, taught an apologetics class for JWs and Mormons at the school of ministry, did campus ministry on the University of Arizona campus, played in the praise bands, etc.). As Scripture continually revealed a bigger God and a smaller me, doctrinal conviction led me to spend time in the Presbyterian (PCA) and Christian Reformed Churches where I was blessed with opportunities to serve as an elder and licensed preacher. DSC was a perfectly timed gift of God's grace to our family. Though my formal training is in engineering (M.S.), I love studying theology and apologetics. When I grow up, I still want to go to seminary, but for now, I am blessed to serve at DSC with my wise, gifted, and beautiful wife Lisa, and a group of elders who literally came as an answer to prayer.
Tim Ray
Global Missions
Elder
Global Missions
Elder
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I was born in Las Vegas, Nevada and moved to Los Alamos, New Mexico at age three and spent the remainder of my childhood there. In 1992, I moved to Albuquerque to attend the University of New Mexico (UNM). One verse that could sum up my life thus far would be Proverbs 16:9 which says, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Growing up, I always had the desire to own a business. While studying Entrepreneurship at UNM, I met my wife, Cara. We are blessed with four children: Caitlyn, Cole, Grace and Ella. My desire, and eventually the Lord's fulfillment of my desire, to own my own business has been a walk of faith. I opened up my own business: a mortgage company with my best friend, Rob Burdick, in February of 2002. While the Lord often directs our steps in areas that are of interest to us, ironically He also leads us in areas we never could imagine or once declared that we would never do. In college, I recount saying to myself that I would never be a missionary or be involved in missions. Years later, after completing three international mission trips, I was hooked on missions. It was about at that time that we started attending DSC. Since then, I have been part of the infancy, toddler, and childhood phases of the development of missions at DSC. Since my declaration that I'd never be a part of missions, the Lord has been turning a lackluster interest into a great passion. My prayer for DSC is that we would live sacrificially for the sake of the gospel and the great commission, until all have heard.
Jay Rush
Community Groups
Elder
Community Groups
Elder
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I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I graduated from Hope Christian high school and then moved to Kansas to pursue baseball at Dodge City Community College. I graduated from Texas Tech University and finished my education in Portland, OR at Multnomah Biblical Seminary. While at Texas Tech, I earned money like most college students, serving tables. In seminary, I worked as a part time teller and then full time banker. I jumped from sales position to sales position trying to understand and discern God's direction for my life and finally landed selling drugs for a living (legal ones in pharmaceuticals). As far as my salvation story, God captured my heart as a junior in college. I was raised by my single mother. The Bible, fellowship, and the church were not emphasized. Although I was exposed to God and His ways in mid school and high school, my life did not reflect the fruit we read about in Galatians 5:22, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness." It wasn't until I got to college that I began to realize, through the grace of Christ, that the momentary pleasures of this life never satisfy. God made it clear that true lasting satisfaction and joy are found in Christ alone. God brought other godly young men into my life to disciple, encourage, and sharpen me in the faith. Although my sanctification is mostly slow and challenging, looking back on where I was to where He has brought me since He captured my heart, it is staggering. My wife Leah, who is my companion, best friend, lover, wife, and partner in the gospel, and I have four children: daughter Gracyn, two sons, Noah and Isaac, and our youngest daughter, Havilah from Ethiopia. My hobbies include studying, reading, mountain biking, and playing pick up games of basketball.
Deacons
In the New Testament Scriptures, there are two offices in the local church: pastors (or elders) and deacons. The deacon is a "servant" office (this is what the Greek word "deacon" means, and what we see in Acts 6 with the first deacons). However, it is also a managerial office: deacons lead others in an area of service. In Acts 6:3 "the seven" (deacons) were put "in charge" of a task. The seven of Acts 6:3 may have helped to manage around three thousand in the church at that time.
In Acts 6 we see areas that require some form of leadership, such as problem-solving and peace-making, related to an area that starts in the material realm (in this case, taking care of the needs of widows). Again, deacons give attention to more practical needs of the body. This frees up elders for the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4). Though the needs that deacons respond to often start in the material realm, the ministry often mingles physical and spiritual needs. For example, "complaints" are handled (Acts 6:1), Stephen preaches (Acts 7), Philip preaches (Acts 8), and deacons "hold fast the mystery of the faith" (1 Timothy 3:9).
Dan Moore
Deacon
Deacon
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I was born in Southern California not far from Disneyland. My parents, two brothers, and one sister moved to Albuquerque in 1958. I am so blessed that my parents established church as a normal and central part of my life as a child. I never thought much about church or religion or God; it was just fun and part of our lives. As a high school sophomore, I started attending Young Life, a Christian non-denominational high school ministry. In Easter 1969, I attended a Young Life camp in Colorado. During the evening time of fun, skits, and singing, the speaker started talking about the Easter message and how Jesus had died on the cross for my sins, that He loved me, and that I could know Him personally. I had heard the Easter message many times before, but I can tell you that God opened my eyes that night to the truth of that Easter message. I didn't even know I needed God! But I remember vividly my first thought when Jesus opened my eyes. I said, "It's True." And it was true then and is now. Over the years, I have served in many ministry positions including a volunteer leader with Young Life and as an elder and worship leader in the local church. I have been at DSC since 2004 where the teaching on the sovereignty of God has changed my life. I have worked for PNM for almost thirty-five years in Large Business Marketing. I have been married for thirty-four years to my precious wife Teresa. We have two married daughters, Melissa in Tampa, FL and Tara in Portland, OR, and one son Bret who lives in Albuquerque. We are also the proud grandparents to three grandsons Emery, Matthew, and Max. I enjoy all kinds of music, sports (go Cowboys!), road trips, and a good laugh. I currently serve in a Men's Huddle, Prayer Life, and as a deacon.
Kelly Moore
Deacon
Deacon
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I was born in Corona, California. My family moved to Albuquerque in 1958 so that my dad could pursue a career in air traffic control at the Albuquerque Airport. I was raised in the Presbyterian church where my parents faithfully attended most functions. My memories of the Presbyterian church teaching are mostly social, just the do's and don'ts of life, with no gospel presentation. I don't believe I was aware of my need for a savior growing up. This changed as I started to attend Young Life with my two older brothers the summer before high school. I listened to the messages of what Jesus did for me that year, then in the summer, I attended Frontier Ranch which is a camp in Colorado run by Young Life. One night, after hearing the gospel presented and given a chance to reflect on my need, I answered God's call and became a believer. I embraced that new belief and became deeply involved with the Young Life club as well as attending a new church fellowship. It was an exciting time of growth and fun with all of my new Christian friends. After high school, I continued to work in various Young Life clubs until I met and married my wonderful wife, Bari. God has taught me so much by being a husband and father. He has patiently confronted me with my pride and my responsibility, expanding my small view of being a husband and a father to the large view of a reflection of Christ and His church. DSC's teaching on God's sovereignty continues to show me how big and glorious God is and how small I am. I know I can do nothing good without God and continue to pursue the gospel and my place at the foot of the cross. Bari and I have been married thirty years this year (2011) and are blessed with three boys: Kyle, Ben, and Matt.
John Ritter
Deacon
Deacon
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I was born in Pennsylvania, but moved to New Mexico at a very young age so I consider New Mexico my home state. I have been married to my wife Diane for more than thirty-eight years and we have three children and one grandchild. I love spending time with my grandson and enjoy gardening. Riding bikes has become a passion and I have enjoyed entering marathon's both here and in Colorado. Diane and I have been at DSC since 2000 and I have been on staff since 2005 as the facilities superintendent. I have served by going on mission's trips to Guatemala and the Navajo Reservation, helping with construction and water projects. I also serve as a deacon here at DSC.
Doug Shawn
Deacon
Deacon
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I was born in Raton, New Mexico and my parents moved to Albuquerque when I was six months old. My parents did not attend church, but I had a very good friend who did. They took me to Berean Baptist Church where the preacher gave some good "fire and brimstone" messages. To avoid going to hell, I went forward and said all the right things. I stayed in church for a few years, but after leaving high school, I walked away. I joined the Albuquerque Police Department in 1983 where I spent fourteen years in Violent Crimes/Homicide. I retired in 2003 as the Homicide Unit Sergeant. I met my wonderful wife LaVonne towards the end of my career in 1994 and we got married in 1995. LaVonne's walk with the Lord and the Holy Spirit made me realize I was "playing church" and in 2004 I truly accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Our family consists of our son Justin and his wife Tarah and grandson Alex, and our two daughters Jessica and Ashley. I have been involved with Bible Study Fellowship for eleven years and I am currently the children's supervisor for the Westside Evening Men's class. LaVonne has been involved with BSF for eight years as a class member in the Women's Class. We were led by the Lord to DSC in 2006 looking for opportunities to serve. The warm and loving reception we received from the body here at DSC encouraged us. This filled our hearts with joy and assured us we had found a church home. LaVonne and I are involved in several areas of the Hospitality Ministry and I am the director of the Safety Team.
Jim Tate
Deacon
Deacon
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My wife Kathi and I started to attend DSC when it was Riverview and meeting on the west side at Riverpoint Gym. So we have been here from the beginning of DSC. I was installed as a deacon six years ago. I am a community group leader and Kathi and I enjoy working in the nursery. I also serve as Vice Chairman of the Hope Christian School Board of Directors and have been a board member since 1992. I am the Project Manager for the school, overseeing new construction as well as projects related to risk management for all three campuses. I am a native New Mexican, a graduate of the University of New Mexico, and have been a real estate broker for thirty-four years as well as a licensed New Mexico general contractor. I served on the Board of Directors of the Albuquerque Pregnancy Center (CareNet) for ten years, and held the office of president for four of those years. I have been involved with Bible Study Fellowship International where I have held the position of discussion leader for an accumulative eighteen years. I am a member of Hope Foundation, Inc., and serve as Chairman. Kathi and I have had three daughters and four granddaughters who call me "g-daddy."
Ken Wesselman
Deacon
Deacon
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I was born in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1958 and raised in the Catholic church. My initial faith was not in Jesus alone, but Jesus plus being a good person. In 1969 our family (my parents, two older brothers, and an older sister) moved to Albuquerque. Upon graduating from the University of New Mexico in 1982, I entered the United States Marine Corps. In the fall of 1983, God opened my eyes to the wonder and kindness of His grace. Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." I married my wonderful wife Julie in October of 1984, and our family began to grow. In 1985, I transferred to the United States Navy. In 1991, I left the service and began flying for Delta Air Lines, where I am currently employed. We are so blessed to have our daughter Katie, our son in law Thomas, and our sons Tim and Chris. The past twenty-seven years has flown by so very quickly. Through the trials and joys of life, marriage, and raising children, God has and continues to change my heart. In recent years seeing more clearly the sovereignty of God has brought great joy and peace. I enjoy time with my wife whether at leisure or working together, time with our kids (harder to come by these days), exercising, bicycling, and fix-it projects.
Staff
Terry Ash
Children / Pastoral Care
Staff
Children / Pastoral Care
Staff
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Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, I was bountifully blessed to grow up in a loving home with my sister Beth and my amazing Mom and Dad. We were members of an evangelical Quaker church that taught the truths of gospel, and I was encouraged through several opportunities such as youth group, youth camp, and Sunday school to believe in Christ and receive salvation. Therefore, at a young age at Quaker Ridge Camp, I was saved by the grace of God. I began to sense a call from the Holy Spirit to prepare for ministry, so after high school graduation, I went to Friends Bible College in Kansas. There, I not only studied for ministry, but met Marcia, whom I've been happily hitched to for forty-three years. After college, I served as pastor of a country church in South Dakota for four years (where our two children Gabrielle and Jeff were born), then moved to Albuquerque where I served as a pastor for twenty years in the "war zone." In 1995 we came to DSC (then called Riverview Fellowship) and I began to get involved on staff as part-time children's pastor, eventually coordinating the children's ministry full-time as God gave the grace and the blessing to do that. I presently have the incredible blessing of shepherding the preschool Sunday school at DSC and of serving others in Jesus' name through pastoral care.
Tim Bradley
Counseling/Children/Family
Elder and Staff
Counseling/Children/Family
Elder and Staff
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I have lived in Albuquerque for most of my life, but took an eight year detour through Las Cruces where I spent three years in school at New Mexico State University, worked, married, and lived life with my wife, friends, and church family. I returned to Albuquerque in the fall of 1996, earned my BBA from the University of New Mexico, worked, watched our family grow, and have lived here ever since. I am the seventh of eight children with two older sisters, four older brothers, and one younger brother. I was saved by God's grace and calling in my first semester at NMSU, and grew by grace through participation in campus ministries and the local church. I am humbled and blessed to have walked with the Lord for twenty years now, and serve Him in my family, community, and DSC. I married my incredible wife, Marce, in the summer of 1995, and we have been blessed with five children. Our oldest is deceased, then we have four in the home: son Kade, daughter Addison, son Quinn, and son Tate, "The fruit of the womb is a reward" (Psalm 127:3b). We love outdoor activities, light saber fights, and tickling. We also like remodeling our house (my prior line of work) and just all around building and breaking stuff (although Marce doesn't really like the messes made when breaking stuff). Marce and I started attending DSC (formerly Riverview Fellowship) in November 1996. We have participated in many studies and community groups, served during Vacation Bible School (VBS), and led men's huddles and counseling classes. Marce loves serving in the Elementary and Nursery ministries, VBS, and Meal Ministry.
Ron Giese
Administration / Leadership Development
Elder and Staff
Administration / Leadership Development
Elder and Staff
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I was born in Madison, Wisconsin. Up until a senior in high school, I thought that it was through our own good intentions and actions that we got closer to God. The cross and person and work of Jesus were not in my thinking in any way. A friend started telling me that the answer was in the Bible, and kept bringing me to who Jesus was and what He did on the cross. Looking back now, I can see that God's good Spirit revealed truth to me that I had never considered, nor was able to consider with my own efforts. I trusted in Christ's finished work, His paying the penalty for my sins, and sensed a new life that has been with me ever since. Eventually, I returned to Madison there for graduate school to study Hebrew at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After a Ph.D. there, I taught Hebrew and biblical studies for seventeen years at Liberty University (Lynchburg, Virginia) and the seminary there. I enjoyed several administrative roles at Liberty, and when DSC had a staff opening for an administrative pastor, I was ready for a change. After our first visit, I fell in love with DSC: its focus on God's glory, its interest in missions, the staff, and the people. Thus we ended up moving here in January 2007. My wife Karla is a family nurse practitioner, now specializing in endocrinology. We have three children, Danielle and Ben, who are still in Virginia, and our youngest, Jared, still with us here and at UNM. I like reading, studying history, travel, missions, and hiking and bike riding around Albuquerque.
Carlos Griego
Redemption Church Planter
Elder and Staff
Redemption Church Planter
Elder and Staff
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I am a born and raised native of Albuquerque and a graduate of the University of New Mexico. I grew up in the Roman Catholic church, but never understood what I was supposed to believe and when I graduated high school, I departed from all religion. During high school, I got involved in drugs and alcohol, which continued into my college life. During college, I worked for the UNM Men's Basketball team as a manager and later video coordinator. I was also heavily involved in the party scene and was many times on the edge of failing out of school. I did not want anything to do with "religion" and thought that if I believed in God, I would be ok and on my way to heaven. It was while working for the basketball team, that God saved me. I was working for Coach Ritchie McKay and Scott Didrickson who shared the gospel with me and prayed and loved me. In the fall of 2002, I became a Christian. It has been a messy road since then, full of learning, humility, and God's grace. I am now married to Lauren and we currently have three children, our daughter Jordyn and sons Brayden and Cody. I now pray God will use me in others lives to see how beautiful and what a treasure Jesus is! God has called me to plant Redemption Church in Rio Rancho and plans are being made for DSC to send my family and I out to plant in 2012.
Drew Hodge
Music Ministry
Staff
Music Ministry
Staff
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I grew up as a pastor's kid in Arkansas, and was home schooled along with three sisters and one brother. I felt the call of salvation at a young age under my father's ministry, and have seen that salvation worked out through the years. At the age of fifteen, I felt the call to ministry and have dedicated my life to it ever since. I have been writing and composing music for fourteen years. My purpose in this is to spread a passion for true worship in the church through music that exalts Christ and God's character. I became the full time Music Minister here at DSC on April 1, 2010. Prior to coming to DSC, I was on staff at TurningPoint Community Church in Palm Coast, Florida as the Worship Leader for nearly five years. I recently finished writing and recording a worship album for TurningPoint called "Cause of Our Praise." TurningPoint is a satellite church of Riverbend Community Church in Ormond Beach, Florida where I was on the Praise Team since 1998. During this time, I also wrote music and played lead guitar for the band Kanon, which won several Christian talent competitions, recorded several albums, and was signed to Vital Records in 2003. I attended Stetson University for Music from 1999-2003. I met my wife, Crissie, while at Riverbend where she worked as secretary, and we were married in 2006. Crissie earned her degree in photography at Daytona State College, and specializes in baby and family portraits. I enjoy working out and playing sports. We have one daughter, Arabella and a son, Priest.
Trent Hunter
Pastoral Assistant
Staff
Pastoral Assistant
Staff
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I was born in 1981 in Columbus, OH, but grew up in the suburbs of three cities: Chicago, San Francisco, and St. Louis. I came to faith in Christ in 1995 after a friend in my eighth grade homeroom class invited me to church. I reasoned that going to church would actually help compensate for the trouble I was causing at home. Within a matter of months I came to understand the gravity of my problem as a sinner, and the glorious grace of God in Jesus Christ. By God's grace, I believed the gospel and was enveloped into the life of that church. A year later, when my English teacher required the class to interview someone in our ideal vocation, I interviewed my pastor. I perceived no greater honor than to lead God's people in treasuring and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. That same desire led me to pursue theological training at Moody Bible Institute. There, I met my wife, Kristi. We were married following graduation in 2003. She is gentle, faithful, diligent and merciful—a gift. After two years in St. Louis where I served as a Minister to Youth and Director of Christian Education, we moved to Louisville, KY in 2005. There, I attended The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and worked in sales for a Verizon retail group. In 2010, Kristi and I moved to Albuquerque, NM, where I now have the pleasure of serving here at DSC as pastoral assistant. Kristi and I are honored to be parents of three children: Carson, Madalyn, and Shae. We enjoy biking, going to the park, hospitality, reading, and wrestling.
Ryan Kelly
Teaching/Preaching
Elder and Staff
Teaching/Preaching
Elder and Staff
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I grew up in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. It was in my junior of high school that God powerfully and savingly revealed to me His saving grace. Not long after, I attended Liberty University, graduating with a B.S. in Religion in 1996. It was that summer that I married my "sunshine," Sarah.
I stayed at Liberty for my seminary education in no small part because I had the chance to serve on the staff of our home church and Sarah was invited to teach piano in Liberty’s music department. After a busy two years, I finished with an M.A.R. and an M.Div.
In 1998, we moved to Oxford, England where I began doctoral studies in historical theology. Sadly, we were forced to move to back to the States in 1999 when we could no longer fund the high cost of Oxford tuition and living. Just the same, our time in England confirmed that I had a far greater desire to pastor and preach than to research and teach.
From 1999-2003 I did just that, pastoring in a small church context in Denver, Colorado (Sarah’s home town).
In August 2003 God provided the wonderful opportunity to come to DSC and serve as the Pastor for Preaching. We love Albuquerque and DSC, and hope, if God wills, to be here for a long time.
Somewhere along the way, I also returned to my doctoral studies, now through Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. My research is in the history of intellectual thought, focusing on the theology of the Puritan John Owen (1616-83). Lord willing, my dissertation should be completed and defended sometime in 2012.
In addition to pastoring and occasional educational efforts, I serve as a Council Member of The Gospel Coalition and help lead the NM Regional Chapter of The Gospel Coalition.
Sarah and I are blessed with four wonderful kids: Autumn, Katelyn, Gillian, and William. Our home is a busy and happy one, by God’s grace. In our spare time we enjoy a very disparate blend of music, reading, dirt biking, hockey, and laughing.
I stayed at Liberty for my seminary education in no small part because I had the chance to serve on the staff of our home church and Sarah was invited to teach piano in Liberty’s music department. After a busy two years, I finished with an M.A.R. and an M.Div.
In 1998, we moved to Oxford, England where I began doctoral studies in historical theology. Sadly, we were forced to move to back to the States in 1999 when we could no longer fund the high cost of Oxford tuition and living. Just the same, our time in England confirmed that I had a far greater desire to pastor and preach than to research and teach.
From 1999-2003 I did just that, pastoring in a small church context in Denver, Colorado (Sarah’s home town).
In August 2003 God provided the wonderful opportunity to come to DSC and serve as the Pastor for Preaching. We love Albuquerque and DSC, and hope, if God wills, to be here for a long time.
Somewhere along the way, I also returned to my doctoral studies, now through Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. My research is in the history of intellectual thought, focusing on the theology of the Puritan John Owen (1616-83). Lord willing, my dissertation should be completed and defended sometime in 2012.
In addition to pastoring and occasional educational efforts, I serve as a Council Member of The Gospel Coalition and help lead the NM Regional Chapter of The Gospel Coalition.
Sarah and I are blessed with four wonderful kids: Autumn, Katelyn, Gillian, and William. Our home is a busy and happy one, by God’s grace. In our spare time we enjoy a very disparate blend of music, reading, dirt biking, hockey, and laughing.
Clint
Missions Director
Staff
Missions Director
Staff
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I was born and raised in a medium sized town in eastern New Mexico called Clovis, home of the fighting Wildcats. My parents were faithful to take me to church growing up. I also had some really good friends who took faith in Christ very seriously and challenged me to do the same. In college I was mentored by a faithful brother named Todd who spent time teaching me what it meant to know and follow God through Christ as revealed in the Scriptures, and to live for God's glory among all peoples. I think that as I was invested in by godly men in college and challenged to understand the gospel and communicate it to others, God really got a hold of me and taught me what it meant to be saved by grace. I earned a Bachelor's of Science in Civil Engineering from New Mexico State University—go Aggies! While in college, I met my new best friend and future wife, Joanna. After I graduated from NMSU, we got married and moved to Albuquerque where I worked as a Hydraulic Engineer, earned my Master's of Science in Civil Engineering, and Joanna finished her Bachelor's degree in Nutrition. I worked as an Engineer for three years before joining the staff here at DSC. Joanna and I began attending DSC in late 2005 and quickly began serving along side the Global Missions team at DSC until the opportunity came up in 2008 to join the staff as the Missions Director. We really love serving and growing along side the members of our community group and the fellowship we share with the body of Christ at DSC. Joanna and I have one child, Nicholas, whom we adopted in 2011 from Uganda. We hope to add both more adopted and some biological children to the quiver, Lord willing.
Memo Ochoa
Communications Director
Staff
Communications Director
Staff
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I was born in the capital city of Honduras, Tegucigalpa, and lived there until I moved to the States for college in the spring of 2002. By the grace of God, my relationship with Christ began at a young age, and led me to many translating opportunities for His kingdom while in high school. This provided a gateway to attend Pensacola Christian College in Florida. After two years, I transferred to Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, where I fell in love at first sight (cheesy but true) with my gorgeous wife, Meghan. We remained in Lynchburg, and were married in the fall of 2006. After graduating with a B. A. in Communications, specifically in Graphic Design, I worked temporarily for a marketing firm. My heart desired to glorify God through my profession by working directly with a church or mission organization. By God's grace, we relocated to Albuquerque in the summer of 2007 to become a part of the DSC family. I lead a community group in Rio Rancho and greatly enjoy going to Guatemala on mission at least once a year. Meghan and I have two kiddos, Juliet and Dante. We like sipping coffee, bookstores, movies, watching our kids doing silly stuff, and perhaps fútbol, not football, will become the family's primary form of entertainment.
Gayle
Finance Administrator
Staff
Finance Administrator
Staff
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I was raised in a strong Christian home with wonderful parents. I grew up in church, Christian schools, and even went to Bible college. I went through some deep trials about four years ago. During the trials, I spent time in God's Word and relied on Christian friends, pastors, and elders at DSC and trusted them as they guided me through this time in my life. God's mercies are new everyday. I am a single mom. I have two daughters, Meghan and Brooke, and I am the legal guardian to my niece, Taylor. I know God has a plan for my life and the life of my children. I am grateful for my salvation. I handle everything to do with finance at DSC. I have been on staff since 1999. My background is in finance and I am licensed in securities and life insurance. Am also very involved with Crown Financial Ministries, leading small groups, and teaching people how to get out of debt.
Carolyn Rush
Office Manager
Staff
Office Manager
Staff
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I have been in Albuquerque most of my life. After graduating from Sandia High School, I attended the Community College here taking general courses. I never finished school, but instead married my high school sweetheart, Chris, and we started our family soon after. Before you knew it, we were parents of four daughters. Three of my daughters are now married and we have five grandchildren. I was raised in a Christian home with parents that loved God and served the church passionately. I, on the other hand, wandered from my Christian upbringing and found myself partying and making ungodly decisions. At about the age of twenty-two, after I was married and had several children, God began to really change my heart for Him. I have worked in a management administration role at several places over the years. I have worked at KLYT (M88) radio as Station Manager and promoter of events and concerts. God blessed me greatly as He directed my path to work with the amazing folks at 1615, a missions coaching organization, where I served for several years before coming to be part of the DSC's staff in 2007. I find great joy in being a wife, mother, and grandmother. I serve here at DSC with The Well, the young adult ministry, and enjoy discipling young adult ladies and counseling woman. I enjoy bringing in a concert or two a year to the city as, I guess, a hobby.
Chris Saiers
Technical/Resource
Staff
Technical/Resource
Staff
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I was born in San Francisco, CA. I've lived in Albuquerque since my parents moved back in early 1971. I graduated from Sandia High School in 1988. I became the sound technician for the University of New Mexico Collegiate Singers in 1989 and spent nine years with them. In 1991 a couple of friends invited me and my roommate to a Campus Crusade for Christ meeting. My roommate started going to church and accepted Christ in March. He started inviting me and sometime in April of 1991 I acknowledged the saving grace of Jesus Christ. I started attending Calvary of Albuquerque where I got involved with the sound ministry where, my now long time friend, Jay Fisher, was head of Audio. This opened doors for me to work at a local audio company called Hi Q. It was there that I got to cut my teeth on bigger bands and sound systems. In September of 1996, I was offered the sound tech job at DSC. I now oversee the audio, lighting, visual (PowerPoint, video), and computers here at DSC. I still works four or five concerts a year including, M88's Freedom Fest and working shows with the likes of B.B. King, Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Debbie Reynolds, Red, Hawk Nelson, and Whiteheart among others. My beautiful wife Koren and I, without a doubt have the most beautiful kids in the world—two daughters Micah and Elli, and a son, Logan. I also lead a community group here at DSC and co lead a men's huddle.
Greg Schneeberger
Youth / Young Adults
Staff
Youth / Young Adults
Staff
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I grew up in the Roman Catholic tradition and first believed the gospel when I was thirteen years old with a friend from Hoffmantown Church. My journey of faith is laden with ups and downs, but God's faithfulness is seen throughout. My involvement in ministry began with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Rightway ministries. I continued to grow as a servant through my time at UNM in various ministries such as the BSU and Y-TV. DSC became my church home in 2004 when I accepted a part time staff position with The Well (college - 20 somethings). After some wise counsel, I left for seminary in 2005. I returned to DSC in 2006 to work as the minister for Paradox Youth and Family Ministry. I completed seminary in 2007 through Reformed Theological Seminary. Currently I'm enjoying my job with Paradox and The Well, serving also in missions and other areas, while working on my Ph.D. from Whitefield Seminary in Florida. I am married to Caitelen, my amazing wife. We have one daughter, Aria. When I'm not at church, hanging with some youth, or buried in a book, I like to play guitar, watch movies, and work out—only a little. I am so thankful that God brought me to DSC. I see more and more of His faithfulness in my life every day, that when I am weak, He is strong. My prayer is that God would continue to raise up students and parents for His glory here at DSC, in Albuquerque, and around the world.
Julie Wesselman
Women's Ministry
Staff
Women's Ministry
Staff
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I come from a family that has lived in Albuquerque since the 1880's. I was born here and attended school here. When I was in high school, I became interested in spiritual things and started to attend Young Life. After graduation, I attended a Young Life camp in Colorado where I was confronted with the gospel. It was at that point in time that I saw my sin and need for a savior. By God's grace, I embraced His mercy and received Him into my life. A couple years later, I went on to UNM and then graduated in May of 1984 with a Bachelors degree in Physical Education. While in College, I was involved with Campus Crusade for Christ and it was in this ministry that I began to really grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. While I was attending UNM, I met my future husband Ken. We were in class together where he attempted to take my field hockey ball away; instead he captured my heart. Years later on October 6, 1984 Ken and I were married. We have three grown children, Katie, Tim, and Chris. We have attended DSC since November of 1993. I have been involved with the Women's Ministry most of our time at DSC. There were a few years that home schooling my children prevented me from being involved. During the summer of July 2004, I was asked to take the position of Women's Ministry coordinator. It has been my pleasure to come alongside women, point them to God, and help them to be in the Word so as to see and savor Christ.