Spouse: Elsie Ellsworth
Year Married: 1977
Children: Emily (1983), Rebekah (1985)

Additional Family Information: Both girls are married. Emily is married to Matt Crum. Rebekah is married to Errek Suhr. Rebekah & Errek have one daughter, Addyson.

Ministry Role: Senior Minister

Year began working at SOCC: 1981

Education History: Received my undergrad degree from St. Louis Christian College and my Master's degree from Cincinnati Christian University.

Work History: I have been at SOCC for most of my ministry career! I was the 2001 President of the North American Christian Convention and serve as a guest speaker for various seminars and leadership conferences. In addition, I have been a contributing author to several publications and have written five books.

Faith Background:  I grew up in a Christian home. In church camp during my high school years, I devoted my life to ministry. My heritage in the Christian Church goes back seven generations.

Favorites

Books: In addition to the Bible, Team of Rivals, anything by CS Lewis or Max Lucado

Movies: Hoosiers, The Patriot, The Spirit of St. Louis

Scripture: Philippians, James, Luke

TV show: NCIS

Place to Eat: I've never met a food I didn't like!

Vacation Destination: Yellowstone & Grand Tetons National Parks

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I have my pilot's license.

Spouse: Gayle Earle
Year Married: 1998
Children: Elijah (2000), Clive (2005), Mac (2005)

Year began working at SOCC: 2002

Education History: Graduated with a B.S. in Biblical Studies from Cincinnati Christian University...in five years.

Work History: After graduating CCU, I worked for three years in Information Technology as a Network Administrator.

Faith Background: Church was not a significant part of my life growing up, however things changed at the age of 17 when I decided to accept Christ into my heart.  I have wrestled with the beauty and (sometimes) absurdity of church life ever since.  My hope is to see followers of Christ take seriously the potential we all have in God’s redemptive plan as it unfolds in our daily lives.  I love working with the amazing students here at SOCC and inviting them to trust Jesus no matter where they are in their spiritual journey.

Favorite

Book: The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis

Movie: Braveheart

Scripture: John 6:68

TV show: Ninja Warrior

Place to Eat: La Torre, Moe's and the China Buffet near Borders

Vacation Destination: Anywhere with family

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: :  Creating sustainable agriculture for villages in Peru.  And ping pong.

Spouse: Ken Mitchell
Year Married: 1970
Children: John (1975), Darren (1977)

Additional Family Information: John is married to Risha, and they have two children - London & Reece. Darren in married to Cindy.

Year began working at SOCC: 2002

Education History: B.S. Education from Indiana University Masters in marriage and family counseling from Liberty University

Work History: First Grade Teacher Spencer, Elementary, Children’s minister Ellettsville Christian Church

Faith Background: I love the body of Christ! I grew up in the church I don’t remember a time when I didn’t know Jesus loves me. My dad loved to preach and I gave him plenty of opportunites growing up he lived his life loving jesus and the church he died for. My husband, brother, brother in law, father-in-law, nephew, niece, son, daughter-in-law have all been in ministry in the independent christian church I am surrounded by people who love Jesus and the body of Christ ! What a blessing! My life’s mission is to know God more everyday and make Him known to others.

Favorite

Book: The Life You’ve Always Wanted by John Ortberg

Movie: Air Bud

Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3

TV show: Castle

Place to Eat: Sweet Grass

Vacation Destination: Yellowstone National Park

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I enjoy fly fishing.

Spouse: Cindy Newland
Year Married : 1994
Child(ren) and Year of Birth : Cassie (1996), Shelby (1998), Brynne (1999), Jenna (2001)

Additional Family Information For those who ask, “yes, I know I’d have to win the lottery to pay for four weddings.”

Ministry Role Small Groups Minister

Year began working at SOCC: 2000

Education History Graduated with my ministry degree in 1993 from Milligan College in Tennessee which is where I met my lovely bride, Cindy.

Work History: My first ministry position was at New Hope Christian Church in Anderson, Indiana as Associate Minister doing every possible area of ministry imaginable from 1993-1997. This was a great experience and allowed me to see that children’s and family ministry was where God had gifted me. I served as Children’s Minister next at First Christian Church in Clearwater, Florida from 1997-1999 before being called to serve as the Children’s Minister here at SOCC starting right at Y2K (January 2000). In the fall of 2006, I transitioned to become the Family Minister. At each church where I’ve served, I’ve been blessed to learn from some of the best senior ministers who have mentored me and modeled for me leadership and ministry skills. Both of my previous senior ministers have gone on to become presidents of Bible colleges, and there is no question that Tom Ellsworth is the same caliber leader and shepherd.

Faith Background: I grew up as a preacher’s kid and the grandson of missionaries. With an extensive family heritage of Christian faith and commitment, I have been blessed to know Christ as my Lord and Savior for as long as I can remember. My parents Paul and Jane Newland were integral in introducing me to Christ and providing me with a nurturing and Christ-filled home as a backdrop for my childhood and youth. This probably explains why all four of us brothers have grown up to be ministers ourselves. When I went to college, I didn’t intend to become a minister. That would’ve been to cliché in my family. This worked out perfectly, because my wife Cindy had never wanted to marry a minister! As God would have it, He has directed me through many paths thus far in my life, some of which I would have never considered without His prodding. Because of the abundant grace and love shown to me, I can’t help but want to share that in my family, community and world. I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to do so right here in Bloomington.

Favorites

Books: For some reason, I really enjoy children’s and young adult literature. And science fictiony stuff.

Movies: Aliens, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, Valentine’s Day. You know, THAT genre.

Scripture: Philippians 4:13,

TV show: LOST

Place to Eat: White Castle, Lennie’s, Trojan Horse

Vacation Destination: Beaches and/or Mountains

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I’m going to write a book. It’ll be funny, yet serious, and it will CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

Spouse: Stacy (John) Parkes
Year Married: 1983
Children: Kara (1991), Caleb (1993)

Additional Family Information: Kara is at Indiana State studying psychology with the goal of becoming a Christian counselor.  Caleb attends Edgewood High School and particularly enjoys playing different forms of percussion in the Marching Mustangs.

Year began working at SOCC: 2006

Education History: Bachelor of Science in Child Development & Family Studies, Purdue University, 1986

Master of Science in Counseling, Indiana University (IUPUI), 1989

Work History: Worked as a Child Life Therapist at Methodist Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis for 14 years when called into the ministry.  Mentored in ministry for 10 months by Claudia Mitchell, then assumed a full time children’s ministry role at Ellettsville Christian Church for 4 years before coming to SOCC. While many people consider their job as work, I consider myself very blessed to serve God in a position and a church that I love, helping children and families grow in their journey with the Lord.

Faith Background: I grew up in the Christian church, in a local congregation about 25 miles away.  I was baptized at 13 after a weekend youth revival.  Our youth ministry was strong (led by Ken & Claudia Mitchell J), and those relationships contributed greatly to my faith growth and ministry opportunities today.  After becoming aware of a mission project in Uganda and traveling there in 2008, there is a special place in my heart for children orphaned by the HIV-Aids epidemic.  I hope to return in the future to support the ministry of the schools there.

Favorites

Books: Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions, Think Orange, A Leader in the Making, Volunteer Revolution, and for fun, The Cat Who. . .  mysteries by Lilian Jackson Braun (although I consider myself a dog lover and not a fan of cats).

Movies: The Sound of Music, You’ve Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle, and The Family Man

Scripture: John 15:1-17

TV show: 24, Fox News, and reruns of the Brady Bunch

Place to Eat:McAlister’s, Red Lobster, & Cracker Barrel

Vacation Destination:tropical locations, preferably by cruising.

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: It’s not one yet, but I’d like to try skeet shooting.

Spouse: Sharon Porter Phillips
Year Married: 1970
Children: Rachel (1978), Luke (1980), Savannah (1987)

Additional Family Information: Rachel is a career counselor and marriage and family therapist at Abilene Christian University, Abilene, Texas. Luke is a philosophy professor. Savannah is a sociologist.

Year began working at SOCC: 2001

Education History: B.S in Biology, 1971; Master of Divinity, 1982

Work History: US Navy 1971-1973; International Mission, One World Trade Center, NY, NY 1978-1988; Oxon Hill Church of Christ, Temple Hills, MD 1988-1996; North Central Church of Christ, Bloomington, IN, 1996-2001.

Faith Background: Baptized at Bible camp 1964, Began preaching in 1966, Attended Abilene Christian University as a pre-med student and minor in Bible, military service caused me to attend seminary.

Favorite

Books: Hebrews, Ivanhoe

Movies: Cool Hand Luke, A Few Good Men

Scripture: Philippians 2:12-13

TV show: Mythbusters, First 48, Good Eats

Place to Eat: Anyplace with strange food

Vacation Destination: Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: Maple syrup production, cheese making, bread making, etc., cross stitch, Sudoku and crossword puzzles.

Spouse: Gail
Year Married: 1976
Children: Claire (1981), Joel (1983), Jesse (1986)

Additional family information: Claire is married to John Roth – both are teachers in MCCSC;  Joel is married to Laura (Bowman) – both in graduate school at Wyoming State University in Laramie, WY; Jesse – single, works at COOK Inc.

Year began working at SOCC: 2001

Education History: Fort Wayne Bible College: 3 semesters theology and Bible, Taylor University: BA Biblical Literature / Christian Education, Spanish Language Institute – San Jose, Costa Rica: 1 year language and cultural studies, Indiana University: MA Latin America & Caribbean / History & Cultural Studies

Work History: 20 years with Youth for Christ – Great Lakes Region and YFC International, 5 Years Pioneer Missionary with YFCI – Costa Rica/Guatemala/Jamaica, 5 years Director of Student Ministries – Taylor University

Faith Background: I came to a first awareness of my need for Christ’s forgiveness and guidance as a child at Wesley United Methodist Church in Van Wert, Ohio.  Youth for Christ played a major role in my faith walk during adolescence, pointing me toward youth ministry.  Fort Wayne Bible College and Taylor University prepared me further for life and ministry.  I met Gail at Taylor.  Soon after beginning a full-time youth outreach with YFC, we accepted the challenge of pioneering YFC in Guatemala, Central America.  Our faith was stretched and deepened as we entered into cross-cultural ministry, faced the challenges of adjustment, and attended many different churches along the way.  That growth continued as we served in 3 countries and led teams to many others through YFC, Taylor University, and SOCC.  God continues to shape and mold me/us as we serve him.

Favorite

Books: Eternity in their Hearts by Don Richardson; Your God is Too Small by JB Phillips

Movie: Knights Tale; Gladiator; Jeremiah Johnson; Brother Son, Sister Moon; anything action

Scripture: Eph 2:8-10; Pro 3:5,6; Mt 5 -7; Jn 14-15; 2 Cor 5: Rom 8; Rom 12; Eph 4

TV show: Crime dramas and senseless comedies

Place to Eat: Anatolia; Smokin’ Jacks; Sam’s Club; Harrodsburg Convenience store; anything ethnic

Vacation Destination: Yalapa, Mexico; Antigua, Guatemala; Estes Park; Alaska (summer only); Banff

Hobby or skill that may surprise people: Hiking; Camping; Fishing; Hunting; Photography;

Spouse: Marie Robertson
Year Married : 1984
Child(ren) and Year of Birth : Rachel (1990), Caleb (1992), Danielle (1995)

Additional Family Information I am the youngest of seven children

Year began working at SOCC: 1985-1994; 2005

Education History BA in Christian Education from St. Louis Christian College. Master of Ministry from Kentucky Christian University

Work History: I worked at SOCC from 1985-1994 before moving on to Fairfield Christian Church from 1994-1996. I then worked at Mt. Pulaski Christian Church from 1996-2005 before returning to SOCC.

Faith Background: I was baptized in 1970 and ordained in 1983. One of my proudest moments was being able to baptize all three of my children.

Favorite

Books: Wild Goose Chase (Mark Batterson), Celebration of Discipline (Richard Foster) and The Ragamuffin Gospel (Brennan Manning)

Movies: Braveheart, Shanandoah, Brian's Song, Saving Private Ryan, A Few Good Men

Scripture: Colossians 3:23, Ephesians 3:20, Philippians 3:12-13, 2 Corinthians 9:6-9, Psalm 121, Joshua 1:6-9

TV show: ESPN & the Movie Channel

Place to Eat: Panera, Pourhouse, Opy Taylors

Vacation Destination: Colorado for the mountains, Florida for the beaches, and North Carolina for the hiking trails.

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I love to walk.

Year began working at SOCC: 2006

Education History: Graduated from IU with a degree in Interior Design.

Work History: 1991 - 2003 Southside Christian Church, Bloomington IN  - Worship Minister, 2003 - 2006 Outlook Christian Church, Reno NV -  Worship Minister

Faith Background: Came to faith in Christ at age 12, baptized in the creek. Served in various capacities as a preacher, teacher, small group leader, college ministry, and the occasional nursery volunteer.

Favorite

Books: Simple Church (Rainer and Geiger); anything by Agatha Christie

Movie: Once, Lars and the Real Girl- both fantastic movies about the power of community.

Scripture: Psalm 115:1-18  Read it!

TV show: Frasier, Masterpiece Mystery, 30 Rock

Place to Eat: Anything Thai

Vacation Destination: Cool damp places – nothing with sun or sand.

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: Uhuh, I’m not telling. I like to keep the mystery alive.

Spouse: Tim Bedwell

Year Married : 2006

Additional Family Information We have a great dog, our chihuahua, Madison. And my mom is my best friend

Year began working at SOCC: 2002

Education History B.A. in English with a minor in Spanish from Indiana University

Work History: I worked at a local publishing company for a year after graduating college. I started working at SOCC as the Children & Youth Ministries assistant. Over the next few years, I took on new jobs and new responsibilities. I have served as the Business Manager since 2007.

Faith Background: I did not grow up in church, but went on a mission trip the summer before my senior year of high school that changed my life. In college, I was actively involved in IU Christian Student Fellowship, and my faith grew exponentially. I was baptized in 2000 by IU CSF minister Paul Steiner. And, I have attended SOCC since college.  

Favorites

Books: The Giver, The Book Thief, The Outlander Series, the Harry Potter series, The Ragamuffin Gospel, A Million Miles in a Thousand Years

Movies: The Princess Bride, Enchanted, the X-Men series, Indiana Jones, Anything Pixar, Bolt

Scripture: Joshua 3:5, Genesis 1:2, John 1:1, Ephesians 3:20

TV show: The Big Bang Theory, House, Ninja Warrior, Bones, The Biggest Loser, NCIS

Place to Eat: My Thai Café, McAlister's Deli, Casa Brava, Noodles & Company, Cafe Pizzeria

Vacation Destination: Florida, The Gulf Coast

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I was a cheerleader in 7th grade. I also have no problem memorizing large portions of Shakespeare.

Spouse: Emily Bedwell
Year Married : 2006

Additional Family Information We have a great dog, our chihuahua, Madison

Year began working at SOCC: 2003

Education History B.A. in Telecommunications; B.S. in Business, both from Indiana University

Work History: I joined the SOCC staff in 2003 as the Media Intern.  One year later, the church made my position permanent.  I also do freelance graphics and video work for several Bloomington businesses.

Faith Background: I grew up in the Presbyterian Church, then joined Mt. Pleasant Christian Church in Greenwood before coming to SOCC. 

Favorite

Books: The Bible

Movies: Back to the Future, Happy Gilmore, Office Space

Scripture: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world." John 16:33

TV show: The Big Bang Theory, House, Ninja Warrior, The Price is Right, Flashpoint

Place to Eat: Asuka Japanese Grill, DeAngelo’s, My Thai Café, Smokin’ Jack’s

Vacation Destination: Florida's Gulf Coast

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: My alter ego is the VBX character, Mr. Roboto

Spouse: Hannah Burkholder

Year Married: 2011.

Ministry Role: Assistant Technical Director

Year began working at SOCC: 2010

Education History: B.A. in Telecommunications with a minor in Psychology from Indiana University

Work History: With the exception of working construction in the summer, I'm proud to say SOCC is where I get to start my career incorporating technology into worship.

Faith Background: I grew up going to church and was very involved, but I feel my faith became more authentic when I started attending Campus Life in high school. Coming into college, I lived in the IU Christian Student Fellowship house where I continued to grow in my walk with Christ.  

Favorite

Books: Digital Fortress, Total Money Makeover

Movies: Air Force One, Avatar

Scripture: Philippians 4:13, 1 Corinthians 13:4

TV show: 24, Everybody loves Raymond

Place to Eat: Moe's, Casa Brava, Olive Garden

Vacation Destination: Hilton Head Island, SC and Mackinac Island

Spouse: Jeff Carmichael
Year Married: 2004
Children: Amanda, Elizabeth, Harrison, Jonas

Year began working at SOCC: 1996

Work History: Worked in Pediatric Dentistry for twenty years before coming to SOCC to work with the Childrens, Youth and College ministers in 1996.

Favorites

Authors: Francine Rivers, Dallas Willard, Andy Stanley, Susie Larson

Movie: Nicholas Sparks movies and action, adventure thrillers

Scripture: "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." James 4:8

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: Enjoy being outdoors, camping, hiking, kayaking. .

Spouse: Peggy Edwards
Year Married: 1967
Children: Natalie (1978), Todd (1980)

Year began working at SOCC: 1992

Education History: Bachelor's degree from IU; Master's from Ball State & IU; Certified Police Chaplain

Work History: I worked as an engineer from 1969-1976. I have worked for Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation, RCA, and Tilford Consulting before beginning at SOCC.

Faith Background: I grew up in the church and have served as a sunday school teacher, deacon, elder, youth leader and VBX teacher throughout the years.

Favorite

Book: Specimen Days in America (Walt Whitman)

Movie: Gone with the Wind

Scripture: John 14

TV show: Three Stooges, Red Skelton, Lone Ranger

Place to Eat: everywhere

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I am a certified forensic treatment specialist for sex offenders

Spouse: Jenna Grile
Year Married: 2007
Children: Avigail (2009), Ezra (2011)

Year began working at SOCC: 2008

Education History: BA in Telecommunications from Indiana University

Work History: I mowed lawns in the summer both before college and during college.  After college I needed a job fast because I got married the week after I graduated.  So, I applied to mow lawns for the Indiana University Grounds Crew.  After that summer I thought it might be nice to do something other than mow lawns.  There happened to be a job opening so at Sherwood Oaks as the Media/Music Administrative Assistant so I applied.  I was very fortunate to get hired on and I have been working at Sherwood ever since.  I feel very blessed to be part of the SOCC staff and this great congregation.

Faith Background: I grew up in the church, but it was not until college that I started to grow deeper in my faith.  I went home for summer break after my sophomore year of college and met a youth pastor who challenged my faith and my walk with Christ. After that summer I returned to Bloomington to start my junior year of college with a different outlook on life.  I had attended Sherwood Oaks since my freshmen year but I never really got plugged in to the church.  When I returned from summer break I noticed that there was an ad in the bulletin saying they were looking for a sound volunteer.  I went through the interview process that all new media volunteers have to go through and then got placed on a team.  From that point on the church that I thought could never use me because it was so big started to seem a lot smaller and I realized that I could help and make an impact.  Since that time I have been very fortunate to join the staff at Sherwood Oaks doing something I love to do each day.  In a sentence, God is good and He proves it every day!

Favorite

Book: The Bible and nerdy tech magazines (do magazines count as books?)

Movie: Back to the Future I, II, and III, The Goonies, The Sandlot, Elf, Enchanted, and I have to include one chick flick so, Sweet Home Alabama.

Scripture: Matthew 22:37, Philippians 4:13

TV show: The Wonder Years, Everybody Loves Raymond, America’s Got Talent, The Deadliest Catch, and pretty much everything on the History Channel.

Place to Eat: Trojan Horse, Olive Garden, Texas Roadhouse, Moes, and anything Chinese

Vacation Destination: Outer Banks, NC, anywhere in Florida, and the West Coast

Hobby or skill that may surprise people: I was a 10-year 4-H Horse and Pony member.

Spouse: Todd Hosea
Year Married: 1992
Children: Sara (1997), Daniel (1999)

Ministry Role: Involvement Coordinator

Year began working at SOCC: 2003

Education History: BA Political Science (1990), Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo, CA

Certificat d’Étude (1988), L’Université d’Aix-en-Provence, France

MA Human Services, Liberty University Online

Work History: Sr. Correspondence Assistant to Dr. Dobson, Focus on the Family, Colorado. Secretary to the Commander, 932d Air Control Squadron, USAF, Iceland. Assistant Director of Development, IU School of Music, Indiana. Homemaker and philanthropist, California.

Faith Background: I was raised in an Episcopal church.  I started attending a Campus Crusade Bible study in college and gave my life to Jesus at the age of 20.

Favorite

Book: Historical Fiction

Movie: Action/Adventure

Scripture: Philippians 3:7-9

TV show: None in particular

Place to Eat: Ethnic restaurants

Vacation Destination: Southern France

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: Pulling weeds

Spouse: Brooke Mackey
Year Married: 2008
Children: TBD (but we have 2 plants)

Year began working at SOCC: 2009

Education History: I have a Telecommunications BA from Indiana University with a Business Minor. I graduated in 2007.

Work History: I worked at a poster printing company in Indianapolis from 2007 – 2009 before coming to Sherwood Oaks in July 2009.

Faith Background: I grew up going to Traders Point Christian Church in Indianapolis.  Brooke grew up going to Liberty Christian Church in Martinsville. Brooke and I were both involved with Christian Student Fellowship at IU. This is where we met, and were surrounded by a great community of believers. Brooke and I both attended Sherwood Oaks in college where we volunteered with the High School Student Ministry.

Favorite

Books: Calvin and Hobbes, Irresistible Revolution, Praise Habit, The War of Art

Movie: U2 Live from Boston

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16

TV show: The Office, Community

Place to Eat: Fazoli's, Home

Vacation Destination: Somewhere with a lake and a cabin.

Spouse: David Pruet
Year Married: 1997
Children: Kayla Noel Vickers (Dec. '88); Kevin Derek Vickers-Pruet (October, '90)

Additional Family Information: David is a licensed Thanatologist (Grief & Loss Counselor); Kayla has worked at the Pourhouse since it opened and Kevin is at SLCC studying to go into the ministry.

Year began working at SOCC: 1994

Education History: Graduated in 1983 with a BS in Christian Education from Roanoke Bible College (now Mid-Atlantic Christian University) located in Elizabeth City, NC

Work History: I started at SOCC in 1994 working as an assistant to Tom Ellsworth and Roger Clark. Through the years that role has expanded to now include coordinating the scheduling of the building and working to provide Adult Education opportunities for the congregation.

Faith Background: My father, Henry Mann, is a minister (now ministering in Bloomfield, IN) so I have grown up in the church. I know nothing else. It is part of who I am. While in college I was in a traveling singing group and we traveled around the country singing and leading camps, conferences, etc. I love working with kids and showing others the joy of serving God.

Favorites

Book: anything by Beverly Lewis

Movie: Jane Eyre

Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6

TV show: NCIS, Criminal Minds

Place to Eat: Outback

Vacation Destination: anywhere as long as it’s on the ship! Love to Cruise!

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: A lot of folks don’t know that I love to cook and I love to experiment with it. I love to take a recipe and then tweak it a little bit to make it mine.

Spouse: Tobin Wingard
Year Married: 1977
Children: Annie and Spencer Smith, Ben Wingard, Elly Wingard and Kate Wingard

Additional Family Information: Three grandsons, Thaddaeus, Simon and Vince

Ministry Role: Bookstore Manager

Year began working at SOCC: 2005

Education History: Journalism, B.S.; University of Wisconsin-Madison (go Badgers)

Work History: Most of my past employment and volunteer work has entailed marketing and public relations work.  I also have done extensive work in education, teaching, developing new programs and designing curriculum.

Faith Background: I attended a small country church in rural Wisconsin when I was young. I joined the church choir and was an active member of youth group through junior and senior high school. In 1976, during my junior year of college, one of my sorority sisters started a Bible study. She also introduced me to Campus Crusades for Christ, where I discovered God’s unconditional love and grace.

The following year, I met my husband Tobin, who had a mature and deep walk with Jesus. We spent hours talking about God’s goodness, studying His Word and seeking His will for our lives. In 1977, I gave my heart fully to God, and was baptized in a stream not far from that little country church I attended as a child.

Favorites

Books: Book of Isaiah; The Hole in Our Gospel (Richard Stearns); Crazy Love (Francis Chan)

Movie: Sense and Sensibility (Jane Austen); Man From Snowy River

Scripture: Isaiah 40:31

TV shows: Hannity

Place to Eat: My back porch (Tobin's Grill)

Vacation Destination: Colorado

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I really like to read (which probably isn’t too surprising). I also weave, and recently spent a week in New Mexico with a talented Navajo Indian who taught me to weave the Navajo Way.

Spouse: Andy Barrow
Year Married: 1988
Children: Isaac (1995), Luke (1998)

Additional Family Information: Both boys love to play football, baseball and hockey. Andy coaches baseball and works at IU

Year began working at SOCC: 2010

Education History: BA in Christian Education from Ozark Christian College

Work History: Worked in Bloomington-area offices for 12 years. Was a stay at home mom and homeschooled the kids for 7 years.

Faith Background: I grew up in Brown County at Nashville Christian Church and joined SOCC in 1993.

Favorites

Book: Ordering Your Private World

Movie: Facing the Giants, Remember the Titans

TV show: Sports, the Office

Place to Eat: Mexican!

Vacation Destination: any place I've never been

Year began working at SOCC: 2005

Education History: Graduated from Bloomington High School South in 2006. Graduated from Indiana University with a General Studies degree in 2009

Work History: Subway sandwich artist for three months. Not my favorite job.

Faith Background: I've grown up in the church, having attended Sherwood Oaks most of my life. Baptized in 2000.

Favorite

Books: The Bible, Blue Like Jazz (Donald Miller), Wild Goose Chase (Mark Batterson), Sex God (Rob Bell)

Movies: Die Hard, Spiderman Trilogy, Home Alone, Avatar, Elf, National Treasure

Scripture: "And walk in love, as Christ loved us." Ephesians 5:2 (ESV)

TV show: Friends, Chuck, Modern Family, Big Bang Theory, Brothers & Sisters, the Biggest Loser

Place to Eat: McAlister's, Olive Garden, Chick-Fil-A, Yogurtland

Vacation Destination: Los Angeles

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I love to run. And I make a pretty awesome homemade pizza.

Children: Kellie Ellis (1980) Katie Killion (1981)

Additional Family Information I have a wonderful grand-daughter, Allison Grace Killion, and two great son-in-laws, Joshua Ellis & Douglas Killion.  Joshua & Kellie are expecting their first child in late 2011

Year began working at SOCC: 1994

Education History Mt. Healthy High School (Cincinnati, OH), 1966

Work History: I worked for 12 years at a sheet metal company in Cincinnati until my first daughter was born. Then I did in-home childcare on and off for eight years. After moving to Columbus, OH in 1988, I worked as the only secretary at New Albany Church of Christ. We moved to Bloomington in 1994, and I have been working here at SOCC since that time.

Faith Background: I was baptized as an infant at the First Pilgrim Congregation Church in Kansas City, KS. After awhile my parents sent my sisters and I to St. Luke's Lutheran School and I attended there until moving to Cincinnati in 1960. In 1960 I was confirmed and very active in a local Lutheran church. After I got married, my husband and I split our time between his home church and my home church. It wasn't until we were expecting our first daughter that we decided we needed to be a one church family in order to raise our children the way God wanted us to. So, we began attending "what we believe" classes at Clovernook Christian Church. The minister there opened my eyes to what it means to follow Christ. When Kellie was 9 months old, I decided to give my life to Christ and was immersed on a cold January morning in 1981. I have tried to stay true to God and my faith as I live my life.

Favorite

Books: Anything by Nicholas Sparks or Karen Kingsbury

Movies: The Sound of Music, Hallmark movies

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11, Philippians 4:13, Revelation 2:10

TV show: Amazing Race, Biggest Loser

Place to Eat: O'Charley's, Weber Grill

Vacation Destination: The ocean

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: I collect teapots and Cats Meows

Spouse: Jeremy Moore
Year Married: 2008
Children: Lyvie (2000)

Year began working at SOCC: 2004

Education History: Edgewood High School, class of 2000. Attended IU.

Work History: My first job was at Chick-Fil-A. I also worked at a few local retail shops before joining the SOCC staff.

Faith Background: I was baptized at Hilltop Christian Camp in 7th grade and have been a member of SOCC for 16 years. I love the Lord and how He creates. I feel called to serve others.

Favorite

Books: Atonement, The Last Tsar, The House at Riverton

Movie: Dead Poets Society

Scripture: Romans 6:10-11

TV show: The Biggest Loser, Project Runway

Place to Eat: Lennie's, Bucceto's

Vacation Destination: My house!

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: Sewing, knitting

Spouse: Nikki Pinney
Year Married: 1997
Children: Taylor (1999-2000), Kasey (2001), Jocyln (2002), Daniel (2004)

Additional family information: We have two foster children we are planning to adopt this summer

Ministry Role: Children's Ministry Assistant

Education History: Associate Degrees from Midwest Christian College in Mission Trades, Construction and Ozark Christian College in Bible;  Bachelors of General Studies from IU in Social and Behavioral Sciences.  I have also been trained as an instructor for BCI to help parents of traumatized children learn how to help their child heal

Work History: I have worked as a construction worker, security guard, fast food manager, factory worker, paint salesman and flooring sales manager, custodian and foster parent.  I have 10 years of military service with the Michigan and Indiana National Guard including 6 months active duty during Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

Faith Background: I grew up in a Baptist Church in Mitchell, IN. We started attending because a friend of my younger brother invited him to VBS.  Went to Ozark Christian College where I fell in love with the Restoration Movement and its goals.

Favorites

Books: Anything by Isaac Asimov or CS Lewis, the Thomas Covenant series

Movie: Monty Python's Search for the Holy Grail, the Princess Bride

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11

TV show: Crime dramas and senseless comedies

Place to Eat: Just about anywhere on 4th Street, Texas Roadhouse, Olive Garden

Vacation Destination: Budapest, Hungary

Spouse: Donald Rader
Year Married: 1963
Children: Beth (1966), Michael (1971)

Additional Family Information: I have five grandchildren which Don and I enjoy so much—two in Bloomington and three in Westfield, IN.

Year began working at SOCC: 2007

Education History: Graduated from Bloomington High School in 1956

Work History: Employed five years at First National Bank of Bloomington. Employed four years as secretary to Dean of School of Business, at Indiana University. Employed as a secretary at Monroe County Community School Corporation for 28 years. Employed in October, 2007 at SOCC to present

Faith Background: Baptized in 1953 at Lincoln St. Church of Christ, Bloomington. Later congregation became North Central Church of Christ. Attended North Central until 2001 when membership was transferred to SOCC.

Favorite

Books: Inspirational Books, Beverly Lewis books about the Amish, Biographies

Movies: South Pacific, Facing the Giants, Fireproof, The Blind Side

Scripture: Philippians 4:13, Proverbs 17:22

TV show: Hallmark Specials, Sports

Place to Eat: BJs or the Cheesecake Factory in Greenwood

Vacation Destination: Either the beach or the mountains

Hobby or skill that may surprise other people: Motorcyle riding (Don has a Gold Wing which we enjo

Spouse: Robert Stephens (deceased)
Year Married: 1956
Children: Douglas (1959), DeAnn (1963)

Additional family information: I have two wonderful grandchildren, Arija & Kenton, and two great-grandchildren, Aaliyah & Brandon.

Ministry Role: Business Office Assistant

Year began working at SOCC: 2007

Education History: Bloomington High School class of 1956

Work History: I worked for MCCSC for 27 years before retiring. I also worked at IU for three years, Fountain Federal Savings & Loan for 11 years and First National Bank for 5 years.

Faith Background: I was baptized on December 31, 1949 at the East 16th Street Penecostal Church. I also attended the Ellettsville Christian Church before joining the SOCC family in 1975.

Favorite

Book: The Bible

Movie: Pride & Prejudice

Scripture: Psalm 46:10, Romans 8:28, Philippians 3:14, 4:13

TV show: Sports & the Hallmark Channel

Place to Eat: anywhere!

Vacation Destination: Florida Gulf Coast, Colorado

Hobby or Skill that may surprise other people: I enjoy crafts and organization

Brian and his wife, Jill both grew up in the small southern Indiana town of Pekin. He is a graduate of the University of Evansville with a BS in Electrical Engineering and holds a Masters Degree in Public Affairs Administration from Indiana University. Jill has a BS in Accounting from Indiana University and is a Certified Public Accountant working for Root & Associates in Bloomington. Brian works for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane. 

Brian and Jill became members of Sherwood Oaks in 1987 and have two children, Derek (now attending Wabash College) and Brittany (now attending the University of Evansville). Both have worked in various capacities serving both youth and adults at Sherwood Oaks. Brian is currently serving as an elder and together with Jill, they are investing in the lives of married couples at Sherwood Oaks.

Neal, his wife Krista and their two children, Korey and Mallorey, have been members of Sherwood Oaks since 1998. Neal has served in children’s ministry since 2000, as a Jr. High and High School Core Group leader since 2004 and Sherwood Oaks Elder since 2005. Krista has been the program director for the K-1 spot in the Sherwood Oaks children’s ministry since 2000. Korey has served on Sherwood Oaks leadership teams within the Jr. High and High School programs. Mallorey is an Sherwood Oaks Precchool alum and enjoys Sunday and Mid-week children’s ministry involvement.

Neal and Krista grew up together in Southern Indiana—Santa Claus area. Neal earned a degree in Advertising from Indiana State University and Krista in Elementary Education from Indiana University. After college, and beginning a career in advertising, Neal and Krista were born again in 1991 in the International Church of Christ, Indianapolis. They moved to Bloomington where they served as IU Campus Advance ministers from 1992-1995. They stepped out of full-time ministry after the ICOC disbanded in 1995. Neal currently works at COOKwww.cookmedical.com at the Bloomington Park 48 World Headquarters where he serves the company as Director of Brand Management. Along with her work at Sherwood Oaks, Krista enjoys being a full-time mother.

Cary Curry has been a Bloomington resident all of his life. He began attending Sherwood Oaks Christian Church in the 1980's when it was located on Winslow Road. He owns Curry Auto Center (a family owned dealership in which Cary is the 4th generation) and the dealership has been in business over 90 years.

His wife Julie is from Columbus Indiana. Julie is active in the Prayer Shawl ministry, Children’s Welcome Center and Tuesday morning women’s bible studies. They have 2 sons, Joseph Richard (1995) and James Matthew (1998).

Cary has been teaching in Student Ministry for the past 4 years. Prior to that, he taught for 14 years in Children’s Ministry. He is honored to be serving as an Elder and part of the leadership team.

Jeff Huston, originally from Marion, IN came to IU in 1987 and realized early on that Bloomington would become his permanent home. Jeff has been coming to Sherwood Oaks since 1989 and has had the opportunity to be involved in various ministries during that time including Small Group Leader, Sunday School Teacher, Cub Scouts and Levites.

Currently, Jeff is an elder and one of the teachers of the 5th Grade Sunday School Class. His wife Kristi and he keep busy with their five children Jacob, Joshua, Joel, Alexandra and Alyssa. Jeff is a Financial Representative with Bill C. Brown Associatesand helps people with investing and retirement planning. For fun, Jeff likes to canoe and fish with friends and family.

Larry Page grew up in West Virginia and has lived in various parts of the United States with his wife Dawana. Larry is a graduate of West Virginia University Institute of TechnologySchool of Engineering and has worked for Rosemount Inc. for 20 years.

Dawana grew up around Martinsville and graduated from Anderson University with a degree in Nursing and has worked in surgery for over 20 years. Larry and Dawana relocated to the Bloomington Area in 1993.

Larry and Dawana have two children, Meredith - a Graduate Student at Purdue University and Garrett - a sophomore at Indiana State University.

Larry has taught various classes through the years but enjoys reading and debating Creation Science the most. He has been a part of the Deacon Ministry and Small lGroup here at SOCC. Dawana is active in the Kitchen Ministry, Small Group, and Women's Ministry.

Larry is currently serving as an Elder.

Don and Libby are both native to Bloomington. Each graduated from Bloomington High School in 1956. Don served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1961. Libby worked for the First National Bank and Indiana University School of Business before becoming a stay at home mother with daughter Beth and son Mike. Beth is married to Glenn Harris and has two children (Joshua and Ashley) Mike is married to Nannette (Brown) and has three children (Zachary, Sydney and Sophia). Libby later worked for the Monroe County Community Schools and retired in 2000 after 24 years service. Don attendedIndiana University and later worked in the IU Purchasing Department and Financial Management Support (FMS) retiring in 1997 after 34 years of service.

Don has served as a preacher for area churches of Christ and Christian Churches since 1965. He also served as an elder with the North Central Church of Christ for 12 years. Don and Libby came to Sherwood Oaks Christian Church in 2001. Don is a Stephen Minister and a small group leader. Libby is serving in the Respite Ministry and Stephen Ministry. Don and Libby both serve as Greeters, Kitchen Ministry and Uplifters.