OUR TEAM
STAFF
ELDERS & WIVES
Adam Looney
Worship Minister
Meet Adam
This person does not have a bio yet, check back later!
Caleb Hodges
Creative Arts Director
Meet Caleb
I grew up in Dallas, Texas, and went to school at Abilene Christian University to study business and taught myself video production along the way. In my free time I enjoy bowhunting, playing guitar, and the occasional video game.
I grew up in the Church of Christ, was baptized in middle school, and continued my studies in college, my favorite book is either Revelation or Galatians, let’s talk about it sometime!
I run the Multimedia Ministry (Social Media, Livestream, Video Production, Podcast, etc.) as well as support the new Young Adult Ministry. I love getting to be a part of leading worship and I feel like I am able to use my talents to their full ability. If you are interested in the technical side of worship, we are always looking for more volunteers!
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My hope is to see Greenville Oaks grow downward with age and continue touching the younger generations heart's, especially online.
Christopher Green
Minister of Care and Recovery
Meet Christopher
I was born and raised near the coast in Southern California. I can’t imagine a more wonderful place to have grown up. The weather, the sights, the sounds, and all the amazing things to do in that place, at that time in history, was hard to beat. But the very best thing about my childhood was being raised in a very loving and stable Christian home. Both my parents raised me to know Jesus, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
One of my earliest memories was standing in a small church when I was five years old, “leading a song” at a special Sunday Night Singing. Being in front of that church, I had a strong awareness that I “belonged” there. I gave my life to Jesus and was baptized when I was 10 years old. I preached my first “real” sermon when I was 13. By the time I was 18, I was speaking at area youth meetings. At 21, I was traveling to other states, speaking about God’s love and what it means to follow Jesus. I guess you could say I was “born for ministry” and I’ve basically been involved in ministry my entire life.
Serving in ministry now for more than 45 years, there isn’t much I’ve not done. I’ve been a Senior Minister’s Assistant, a Student Minister, a Lead Minister, a Spiritual Formation Minister, a Teaching/Preaching Minister, a Parachurch Minister, a Musical Arts Minister and now, a Care and Recovery Minister. I’ve been involved with ministry at the Greenville Oaks Church since early 2016.
In 1982, God led me to an amazing woman (Pamela) whom I gratefully married in 1986. We have two daughters, and God has blessed us with four grandchildren who light up our lives with love and tons of energy! They are so much fun! If you ever get the opportunity, I highly recommend being a grandparent! It’s the best!
In addition to ministry at Greenville Oaks, I am actively involved in music. I am a member of a local band that travels around making music all over north Texas and beyond. I also have interests in automobiles, motorsports, pickleball, and good food. But, sincerely, my greatest joy in life is trying to reflect God’s love to other people and assisting them on their journey to follow Jesus Christ.
Jen Duke
Children's Ministry Director
Meet Jen
Growing up in DFW, I am the oldest of six kids. For as long as I can remember, my family was very involved in church, both attending and serving in some way. I attended college in East Texas where I studied biology and met my husband, James. We were married in 2005 and God led me to a temporary job that turned out to be a 15-year career in finance. After our oldest daughter was born, the church we had been attending for many years closed its doors. Although it was a sad time, God led us to our new family at Greenville Oaks in 2014. Since then, we added a son and another daughter. When our youngest was born, we took a leap of faith as I resigned from my full-time job to stay home for a few years. We have been continuously reminded how good God is and trusting fully in Him we are abundantly blessed.
When I was 10 years old, church changed from a place we attended a few times a week to a family we leaned on more than ever. As our family of four was growing to a family of seven, the church stepped up in a big way. I watched as my parents' faith never wavered in all the uncertainties they were facing. This is when I realized how important having a community of faith really was. I now try to instill in my own children how important having that community is.
After spending many years volunteering in different areas of Children's Ministry on Sunday mornings, I began teaching at Greenville Oaks Christian Preschool. I spent four years teaching before transitioning into working for the Children's Minister in the office and now as the Children’s Ministry Director.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My hope and prayer is that the children of Greenville Oaks feel known, valued, and equipped to share God's love with the world.
Karen Stevens
Worship Ministry Assistant
Meet Karen
I was born and raised in the northwest area of the Florida Gulf coast. I am married to Jim Stevens, and we have one son.
I grew up in a Christian home. I was raised Lutheran and have known since I was baptized at age four that I am a child of God and that my name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life. Through all the struggles life has presented me my faith in God has been my stabilizing rock.
When our nephew was offered the position of the first Student Minister at the then Allen Church of Christ (later Greenville Oaks) we visited to hear him preach and have been attending here ever since.
When our son was in preschool I would go by the church office every week to see how I could help. Eventually I was offered a parttime paid position in the office and I have been working there ever since. I also volunteer in the Nursery, and I have helped in children's classes and in Children's Worship.
Jim and I have been part of many Small Groups since they were started here more than 20 years ago and that has helped us get to know many more people in the congregation than just seeing them on Sunday morning would have.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I hope that Greenville Oaks continues to be a safe welcoming place, and that people take advantage of small groups to get connected and support each other.
Matt Mazza
Executive Minister
Meet Matt
I was born and raised in Garland, Texas, and have spent most of my adult married life in Collin County. My wife Kristen and I were married in 1997, and we have two adult children. Kristen and I live in the city of Parker.
I was raised in "the church" as they would say. Every time the doors were open, my family was there. However, I did not truly come to know Christ until I was in my teens, and I was baptized at the age of 16. From that moment on, I have searched to grow my relationship with Christ, through college, my early years of being a husband and then a father and eventually leader in the church. Every season of life has brought me a new understanding of God and a greater appreciation for who Christ is and how I am nothing without Him. I am as far from a completed product as one can be, but I am thankful that every day, through all the ups and downs of life, God has never given up on me, and He has continued to love me and lead me towards being the man He has called me to be.
I am so thankful for the professional and personal relationships I have at Greenville Oaks. Sometimes ministry can be a lonely place, but God has truly blessed me with friendship, community, and grace-filled love from those He has placed around me.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My dream for Greenville Oaks is that we will continue to move forward in being a place where all are welcome and that we are a community of faith that reflects the community that is all around us as we seek to be a place that inspires people to follow Jesus. God made us all different, but those differences should not separate us as the world often encourages, but rather I believe our differences are to be celebrated in creating an opportunity to bring us together to fully experience the abundant life that Jesus promises.
Michelle Barrick
Children & Family Minister
Meet Michelle
I was born and raised in a small town in Oklahoma with my mom, dad, and younger sister. Our family attended church regularly, and from an early age I was taught about faith and the stories of the Bible by loving, dedicated people in our church. As a teenager, I was part of a great youth group and began to seek a deeper, more personal understanding of who God is. During that time, I wrestled with the tension between the world's expectations to achieve, excel, and gather recognition and God's call to put Him first.
After graduating from high school, I continued exploring what it meant to be a child of God and began forming a faith that was truly my own. While attending college, I remained committed to staying connected to church and cultivating healthy relationships, even during a demanding season of life. I was blessed to walk through both high school and college alongside my (now) husband, Tim. His faith, encouragement, and steady support were strengthening as I learned how to live out my faith as an adult.
After we married, we moved to north Texas to begin our careers. Like many families, our journey has included seasons of stress, the loss of parents, health challenges, and job changes. Through each season, God has remained faithful. Tim and I joined Greenville Oaks Church of Christ in 2004 and were immediately drawn to the welcoming and vibrant church community we found. We chose to raise our son and daughter in this church family and to send them to Greenville Oaks Christian Preschool.
Serving at Greenville Oaks has been a meaningful part of my faith journey. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work and serve in both the Student and Children's Ministries, eventually stepping into my current role as Children’s & Family Minister. These experiences have reinforced that ministry is not about titles, but about faithfully serving where God places us and pointing others toward Him. It is a joy to be part of a church where God is actively at work, and I am grateful for the opportunity to use my gifts in service while continuing to grow in faith and obedience.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My prayer is that Greenville Oaks will continue to be a place that points people to abundant life as followers of Jesus.
Michelle Rainey
Administrative Minister
Meet Michelle
I was born and raised in Southern California. I am married to Jon Rainey, and we have three daughters.
I grew up in a Christian home and attended a community church in Southern California. When I moved to Texas for college, my faith began to develop as I went through trials with my family. Although imperfect, I continue to seek God's plan for me and grow through serving my family and my Greenville Oaks family.
I worked as a preschool teacher at Greenville Oaks for nine years and have volunteered in the children's and students' ministries. For the last six years, I have developed the church office manager position into an Administrative Ministry and consider it a privilege to serve the members, elders, and staff.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I am honored to lead with Greenville Oaks in adding to God's kingdom as we live according to His teachings because we're convinced that following Jesus is the best way of life possible.
Miguel Aviles
GO ReNova Lead Minister
Meet Miguel
I was born in the city of Concepción, Chile. Raised in a Christian family, I participated in church life from a young age. I was always interested in serving and collaborating in any way I could within the local church.
After completing my business administration studies, I felt a desire to prepare myself biblically and spiritually. I studied for two years at a Bible Institute in Texas, USA, and then for four years at the Central American Theological Seminary (SETECA) in Guatemala City, Guatemala. There, I earned a Bachelor of Theology degree, but more importantly, I also found my life partner, my beloved wife, Elisa.
After completing my degree, I was called to pastor a Hispanic Church in Maryland, USA. During that time of ministry, our two children were born. It was a positive pastoral experience, but at the same time, it demonstrated that I needed further preparation. I returned to the Seminary in Guatemala to pursue a Master of Theology degree. After finishing my studies, I returned to the United States with a desire to minister to the Hispanic Community.
Finally, God led us to Texas to start from scratch the church that would be called ReNova. Part of ReNova's story is the blessing of having met our sister church, Greenville Oaks, with which we eventually decided to merge. It is an honor to minister in a church in two languages, with diverse cultures.
Sandra Dunagan
Next Steps Ministry Assistant
Meet Sandra
I grew up on a small farm in Crandall, Texas, with my parents and one sister. I met my husband, Brian, at college but we didn't become friends until a few years later and that friendship developed into dating. We were married in 1990. God blessed us with a son and daughter, now both married, and we have two (so far!) amazing grandsons.
I was raised in a small country Church of Christ and enjoyed many potlucks and ice cream dinners! I was baptized at 15 years old. Being a part of a church has been ingrained in me my entire life. In my later adult years, my relationship with God has evolved from a somewhat legalistic one to having a close relationship and walking with Him daily. The community that Brian and I have at Greenville Oaks and my personal relationship with Christ are the most important parts of my life now.
Brian and I became members of Greenville Oaks in 2003. Our children were raised here and we consider it "home". We have been involved in many areas: volunteering with Children's Ministry, Student Ministry, Connect Groups, Gathering Circles, etc. I have been on staff since 2014.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My hope is that others can find connection and community at Greenville Oaks and can consider it "home" as I do.
Suan Colón
GO ReNova Ministry Assistant
Meet Suan
I was born and raised in Humacao, Puerto Rico. I’m the eldest of three kids. My mom and dad separated when I was about four years old and I lived mostly with my mom with occasional visits with my dad. When I was in middle school, I met my husband, Janiel Aco, and we started dating around 9th grade. Around this time, I moved to New York and lived with my dad so for several years. Janiel and I had a long-distance relationship. When I moved back to Puerto Rico, we were still living in different cities and would see each other on the weekends. Our senior year of high school, he moved to Texas. After graduating, I attended college for a year and then moved back with my mom. Then Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico and everything was cancelled. So, with permission from my mom, I got temporary custody of my siblings and moved to North Carolina so they could finish school. After a couple of months, Janiel joined us and we got married in January of 2018. We moved to Texas in 2022 and bought our first home in Greenville. Our daughter was born in January 2024 and our son was born in April 2025. We live in that same house, but it is now filled with little people and lots of wonderful noise.
I always knew who Jesus was, thanks to my dad's parents. They would pick me and my siblings up on Sunday and take us to church. When I lived with my dad in New York, he attended a Seventh Day Adventist Church, but I was in a rebellious place and didn't care much for it. After I moved back to Puerto Rico, I left the church all together. When I moved to North Carolina, I decided it was time to look for Jesus and accepted him at the church where my aunt was a member. When Janeil and I moved to Texas, I found Conexion Church, a Hispanic church that served as my church home for about five years. This is where I truly met Jesus, his love and the love of a congregation. I learned about serving, how to always do it with excellence, and how much I loved it. I started by taking pictures around the church for social media, then moved to helping in the AV team, and being the Lead Pastor's assistant. After a rough year, the leaders decided to close the church. This broke my heart; it was a tough time because that was my home. Even so I understood God had a plan and I was to respect it, even if I didn't understand. We looked for almost a year for another church and, in that time, we faced a lot of hardships from emotional to economic. I saw Jesus move in ways I didn't understand and saw how he never left my family. Then we moved to GO ReNova and I accepted my current job as GO ReNova Ministry Assistant. This was something I was praying for and God was so amazing to give me a new church and a new position to help financially at home.
My involvement at Greenville Oaks is primarily with GO ReNova. I help with anything the church may need from ordering supplies to connecting the Spanish side to the English. You could say I’m a bridge between both sides to ensure that things are clear and understood for both parts. I mainly support Pastor Miguel Aviles but help the elders and leaders in any way I can. I’m also currently serving in the special activities committee.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My hope for Greenville Oaks and GO ReNova is that we keep inspiring people to follow Jesus, that we can continue growing his kingdom for his glory, so that when he returns, we can have all the people I've come to love and appreciate with us. I hope God is always the center of everything we do, be it together or separate. That he moves and changes hearts, blesses families and protects our children. That I may be a tool that helps accomplish his plan for GO and GO ReNova.
Teresa Shaw
Graphic Designer
Meet Teresa
I am proud to say that I am a sixth generation Texan - my ancestors came to Texas before it was a state! I grew up in Denton where I was blessed with devoted Christian parents and others who taught me about Jesus and modeled Christian living. It wasn't until I moved away and attended a private Christian university, however, that my faith started to become my own.
After graduating from college with a degree in Sociology, I planned to get a master's degree in counseling. I moved back to Denton to work and begin graduate school. I took a position in the Human Resources department at the largest university in Denton where I managed the logistics and registrations for all university training programs, took care of any desktop publishing needs, and was the first contact for employee relations questions. An illness postponed my plan to work on a master's degree, but during recovery, I met my future husband, James, …and the rest is history (as they say).
When James and I moved to the McKinney area in 1998, we looked for a welcoming church with people who had authentic faith. Greenville Oaks was that place. After placing membership, a job opening for an assistant to the youth minister became the perfect position for me. Working at Greenville Oaks has been more than just a job - it's a ministry. As my skill set has changed over the years, so has my position. In 2018, I transitioned into the role of Graphic Designer.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
Greenville Oaks remains a church that helps me rely on God, strengthen my faith, and find ways to show others the love of Christ. When faced with infertility and medical issues, our family was cared for, prayed for, and loved in ways that showed us Jesus and brought us closer to Him. We believe that our son's existence is due to answered prayers from the people at Greenville Oaks. Through all the "ups" and "downs" in life, God has continued to provide comfort, answer prayers, show me places to go serve Him, and literally give me His words through the Holy Spirit to answer prayers of others. I am thrilled to be a part of this church.
Wade Hodges
Lead Minister
Meet Wade
I’ve had the privilege of serving as the Preaching Minister at Greenville Oaks since April of 2022.
I attended Abilene Christian University where I studied Communication and Christian Ministry. I was initially hesitant to enter full-time ministry (Jonah complex anyone?) but ultimately found the call to be irresistible. While sometimes frustrated by the challenging nature of the work, I’ve logged almost thirty years of experience with churches of various sizes, types, and styles in Washington state, Oklahoma, and Texas. In hindsight, I can see how God has used each step of my journey to prepare me for my current work at Greenville Oaks.
I’m well acquainted with doubt and growing more comfortable with the mysteries of faith. I’m also no longer surprised when well-meaning Christians (including myself) make a mess of church life. I’m learning to trust God to overcome all obstacles (including wonderfully imperfect people) to keep the Gospel Story moving forward.
The focus of my preaching and teaching is sharing the good news of God’s immense love, revealed especially in Jesus, with curious newcomers, while also showing lifelong Christians different, and hopefully better, ways of reading the Bible, so that they too are bowled over by God’s faithful love. I try to balance this with frequent reminders that the most appropriate response to God’s amazing love is to dedicate ourselves to becoming more like Jesus who shows us how to love others as God has loved us.
I occasionally speak for churches, groups, and non-profit organizations across the country. I’m always encouraged to see how God is working elsewhere. I also coach other speakers who want to improve the quality of their presentations and storytelling. Although it arrived faster than I anticipated, I’m enjoying the “mentoring” phase of my career.
My wife, Heather, is an organizational psychologist and busy keynote speaker. We have two grown sons. Our greatest joy as parents is watching them thrive as young adults. After surviving some rocky vacations during their adolescence, we’ve discovered them to be delightful travel companions in their twenties, and we treasure our family trips.
In my spare time, I enjoy smoking brisket and ribs on the weekends, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, and swinging kettlebells in my garage gym.
Wes Rasbury
Next Steps Minister
Meet Wes
I was born in Illinois but grew up for most of my life in the St. Louis area. My dad was a preacher for most of my upbringing, and my mom ran an in-home daycare. I am the third of four siblings, with two older sisters and a younger brother. As a sophomore or junior in high school, I was dead-set on pursuing a career in hardware or software--anything with computers. However, the Lord changed my mind, my heart, and my path, and I ended up following my sisters' footsteps to attend college in Abilene--staying there to attend seminary as well. I met my wife, Kylie during one of my college internships, and we have been married for 11 years. We have two young boys that definitely keep us busy, but are super fun.
As I said, I grew up very familiar with church, Christianity, and even ministry. While I did not want to go into ministry, the Lord opened doors in my path to bring me to where I am today--there is no other explanation. I was baptized when I was nine years old, but my 'conversion' happened more around age 16 or so, when I began to wrestle with my faith, to ask the deeper questions, and to make my faith my own. I am still very much on a journey with my faith (as I think we all are). I have loved growing in my knowledge of, practices with, and faith in Jesus.
I served for eight years at Greenville Oaks as the Student Minister. While I still love students and the Student Ministry, I felt a growing sense of needing to make a shift in my life. Thus, in 2023, I transitioned over to assume the role of Next Steps Minister. My role now encompasses three main pillars: connections, groups, and discipleship. So, I oversee our new members class called Discover Greenville Oaks (DGO) as well as have a hand in helping with our Guest Services (you'll see me in the lobby on Sunday mornings), I oversee all of our different kinds of groups--Connect Groups (small groups), Gathering Circles (classes), Support Groups, Bible Study Groups, and Discipleship Groups. Our discipleship efforts are primarily group-centric through Rooted, Going Deeper, re|engage, and Practicing the Way.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My prayer is that God will continue to use Greenville Oaks to be a healthy, stable place where all those who enter can grow and serve. I hope that each member (and guest) will encounter the Lord in some way--because of a worship experience, a group experience, maybe even a conversation in the lobby. I pray that Greenville Oaks would reclaim an evangelistic spirit and seek out the lost and for opportunities for those who are lost to connect.
Will Herridge
Musical Arts Minister
Meet Will
I grew up in Abilene, Texas, with my parents and my younger sibling. I moved to DFW just about seven years ago, and met my wife about six months later, we've been married since 2021.
I grew up in the church, but by the age of 17 I had left the church entirely. I'd grown heavily disenfranchised with the amount of people who believed their morality was completely a given by the fact they called themselves Christians, when in reality I'd met more Christlike people outside of the faith. This caused me to question what I actually believed, and I gave myself some distance from the church for a while.
Ministry was never in the plans for me, in fact quite the opposite, but now that I'm back in it, I couldn't be happier. God has shown me what I was meant to do for the Kingdom.
I lead the second service worship team, as well as our new young adults ministry!
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I want both ministries I oversee to grow exponentially and see greater community and passion within them!
Brian & Sandra Dunagan
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Brian
I grew up on a small farm in Kaufman, Texas, with my parents, and two brothers. I met my wife, Sandra, at college but we didn't become friends until a few years later and that friendship developed into dating. We were married in 1990. God blessed us with a son and daughter, now both married, and we have two (so far!) amazing grandsons.
I grew up in the Church of Christ, where my entire family was very involved. I was baptized at 11 years old. Being a part of a church has been ingrained in me my entire life. The community we have at Greenville Oaks and my personal relationship with Christ are the most important parts of my life now.
Sandra and I became members of Greenville Oaks in 2003. Our children were raised here and we consider it "home." We have been involved in many areas: volunteering with Children's Ministry, Student Ministry, Connect Groups, Gathering Circles, etc. I am currently one of the Greenville Oaks shepherds.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My hope for Greenville Oaks is that we continue to grow and show others the abundant life that Christ offers.
Bryan & Jamie Brokaw
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Bryan
I was born and raised in Abilene, Texas, where I was the youngest child in my family with two older sisters. I also went to college in Abilene where I met my wife, Jamie. We have three daughters and love getting to watch them grow in their faith in the student ministry at Greenville Oaks.
I was fortunate to grow up in a family with amazing examples of faith. My grandparents left an incredible legacy that my parents continue, and their strong example of living like Christ are my inspiration for what it means to serve God's Kingdom.
Jamie and I began working with the youth group when we first started attending here, and although we took a brief break when our daughters were younger, we are now continuing our work with the teens, and we love the energy they bring to our church family.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
Greenville Oaks is such a special place to do life with other brothers and sisters in Christ. Our prayer is that it continues its pursuit of becoming a safe home for all who seek the peace and joy only found in Jesus.
Chris & Paula Macon
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Chris
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Dannis & Rosi Ventura
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Dannis
I was raised in El Salvador, the youngest of four children. Being part of a Christian family exposed me to Christianity, but my relationship with God didn’t begin until much later in life.
After high school, I enrolled in trade school to become an HVAC technician. After completing my mandatory hours in the field, I qualified and applied for my Texas HVAC contractor’s license.
I’m married to Rosy, and we recently welcomed our first son.
Throughout my life, I’ve faced both challenges and triumphs, but God’s grace has consistently guided me through every situation. Now, I live for Him, serving Him and fulfilling His plan and purpose for my life.
David & Valinda Bruce
Elder (Sabbatical)
Meet David
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Eric & Tara Cassetty
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Eric
I grew up deeply rooted in the Church of Christ as the son of a minister, so church has always been more than a weekly routine for me…it has shaped who I am as a son, husband, father, and friend. In my early years, my faith centered on the dos and don'ts that provided structure for my choices and beliefs. But in my early twenties, I began to truly understand what it means to follow Christ through a relationship grounded in grace, forgiveness, and purposeful living.
I was raised in Tennessee and attended college there, which is also where I met my wife, Tara. After we married in 1998, we moved to North Carolina and spent many wonderful years raising our two children. In 2021, my job brought us to Texas, and we joined Greenville Oaks in January 2022. After visiting several churches in the area, we were drawn to Greenville Oaks because of its mission to build meaningful relationships, serve the community, and love others.
Tara and I share a strong calling to serve. At Greenville Oaks, we are involved in several ministries, including the Belize mission team, Greeting and Hospitality, and Children's Worship, and I am a member on the Finance Team. We also stay active in the community through volunteering at Hope Restored Missions and Allen Independent School District.
Throughout my life, I have seen and felt God's presence in powerful ways. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to proclaim my faith and serve as an Elder.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My prayer is that we continue to pursue a healthy, growing relationship with Christ—one shaped by prayer, discernment, and a desire to mature in our faith. And as we grow, may we always look for opportunities to share God's love and hope with others.
Greg & Debra Coffman
Elder (Sabbatical)
Meet Greg
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James & Ramona Browne
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet James
I was born on a small island in the Caribbean. I was parented by my maternal grandmother and by multiple aunts and uncles in a little village where everybody knew everybody. I moved to California and completed my last two years of high school there. I turned down a full track scholarship to a well-known university to attend ACU where I met the love of my life, Ramona. We've been married for more than 35 years. We have two lovely daughters who fill our hearts with joy because they love Jesus as much as we do. They make us very proud to be their parents. BTW, we all attended the Purple and White.
My faith journey began when my mother passed two months after my fifteenth birthday. Four months after her death, I found myself in the hospital after attempting and failing to land a summersault. While in the hospital, I noticed a young man walking up and down the halls talking about Jesus. I had gone to church all my life. I think I must have slept through most of my previous church years because this was the first time I heard someone talk about Jesus so openly and boldly. I wanted to know Jesus that way. So, I began studying my bible for the first time on my own, then with a young Christian who opened my eyes and heart to Jesus in a life-changing way. After a year and a half of studying, I offered my heart to the creator of the universe and was baptized in the big Caribbean Ocean. The trajectory of my life was forever changed. I first met my biological mother at six years of age and then my spiritual mother at 17. I went to live with my father for two years before attending college. I have experienced both the fire of God's word in my bones and the cold doubting of His existence since becoming a Christian. The spiritual struggle is real, but the existence and love of God is more real. I thank God that as I've walked through the valleys of my physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual struggles, he was walking with me step by step.
After attending Discovering Greenville Oaks our family became members in 2012. We have been involved in bible classes, Gathering Circles, Rooted, and No Strangers (ask me when we meet). I was asked to be part of the eldership where God has continued to mold my heart for his church.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
GO is a friendly church. I trust that the same friendliness my family experienced when we first walked through the west doors is the same impression others will feel whenever they encounter any member, in or out of the church building. I hope this friendliness and this love for people created in the image of God will propel us to activate the ministries he planted in us. May God help us to consume more of his spiritual fruit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Jose & Kelly Chacon
Elder - Governance Team
Meet Jose
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Randy & Ellen Baker
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Randy
I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. The second of two children, my earliest memories revolve around church life. My parents had grown up in churches of Christ and were always faithful in their involvement. My mom was a church secretary when I was a child, and my father was a deacon, so being in a church environment was second-nature to me. My sister and I learned by example the importance of church life and commitment to God. I cannot fully express how impactful my parents' and grandparents' examples of faith were in my early life. Exposure to the truth of God's word was the cornerstone of my faith development. Growing up, I was very active in my church youth group.
As a schoolboy, my faith was accompanied by a strong interest and discipline in athletics. I found success running track throughout high school and college. After good finishes at the Texas state track & field meet as a high school junior and senior, I received a track scholarship to Abilene Christian University and was blessed with additional achievement. Following graduation from college, I met Ellen, and we were married in 1983. Our two wonderful, believing children are now married to exceptional spouses. We also have three young grandsons. We are grateful for generations of faith and so thankful to witness its continuation. In 2023 I retired from a career in commercial real estate management and consulting where I represented some of the nation's best-known retail brands and restaurants. Since that time, I have been blessed to pursue my lifelong enjoyment of oil painting and to further my fine art business. During our marriage, Ellen and I have served five churches in varying capacities, and the Lord continues to bless and guide our journey.
Because of the excellent teaching and Christian examples I was exposed to as a child, I came to faith in Jesus at an early age. But it was not until I was 13 that I publicly expressed my faith in Jesus and was united with him in his death through baptism. At the time, this act of submission and obedience was the focal and emphasized part of "salvation" as I understood it. But I would come to understand that my salvation was not the result of anything I had done or could do, but by my belief in what Jesus had done for me. In college, my commitment of faith was deepened and stood as my own. While there, I was blessed with professors, coaches, roommates, and friends who encouraged a godly, Christ-centered life. My walk of faith took a giant leap forward when I came to know the Spirit of God. Before that time, I attempted a Christlike heart and behavior solely through my own self-discipline and determination and I was often frustrated. But when I ultimately understood that God gifted his Spirit to me because of my faith in Jesus, and not for any good that I had done, it was truly transformative! And his work to transform, empower and guide me propels me to this day. Everyday. He makes me better than I am by myself. His power strengthens and sustains me. It is he who produces Christ's fruit in me. That reality is both humbling and a great encouragement, and I thank God for his gracious gift, made possible only because of Jesus! Amid the victories, losses, successes and disappointments life has shown me then and over the years, God has continually proven himself ever-present and faithful in all circumstances.
During our time at Greenville Oaks, I have been involved as a teacher, a facilitator in Rooted, a Minister of the Day (MOD) volunteer and an elder. Serving God and his church at Greenville Oaks is an honor, and I am humbled to do so.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
Since its beginning, the body of Christ at Greenville Oaks has been blessed with members who love Jesus. A commitment to unity and a bond of peace has and will continue to strengthen and empower this church, with God's help. In a troubled, fallen world where division and mistrust is on constant display, my hope and prayer is that every individual member will seek to emulate and honor God by loving him first and loving others as themself, just as Jesus prescribed. Our oneness in Christ does not assure agreement, but it does call for peace and love, grace, and forgiveness. If we truly seek to live as Christ, God will empower Greenville Oaks to love and show grace to one another--something we all need, because we all fall short of the glory of God. With his blessing, I pray Greenville Oaks will always teach the truth of his word and inspire all we connect with to live in relationship with Christ.
Rex & Denise Taylor
Elder - Governance Team
Meet Rex
I was raised in Springfield, Missouri, as the oldest of four kids, with my family deeply involved in church. Growing up, I heard many sermons about the “plan of salvation” and the “one, true” church, and as a teenager, I could cite what were considered the biblical flaws of other churches and was well aware of what Christians were not supposed to do. My family and church heritage remain important to me. However, during college and afterward I started to see that God’s good news wasn’t meant to be reduced to a set of religious rules but to lead his people to the full and abundant life Jesus promised in John 10:10.
I started college intending to transfer to another university after my freshman year and to become an architect, but God had other plans. He used my inability to grasp calculus to lead me to become an art major and not transfer to another university. That change allowed me to meet and then in 1977 to marry Denise, my beautiful wife. He then blessed us with two wonderful daughters and now two great sons-in-law and four amazing grandkids. I’m sure switching my major to art scared my parents to death, but they never showed it, and God provided me with a 38-year career in IT marketing and communications management.
In 1992, Denise, our daughters, and I joined Greenville Oaks (at that time the Allen Church of Christ). From the start, we were struck by the energy and involvement of its mostly under-40 members. We quickly found ways to participate, serving in several ministries, eventually including overseeing the planning, construction, and improving of the Greenville Oaks building and leading the Guest Services ministry. Since 1998, I’ve served as an elder and currently sit on the Governance Team.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I have witnessed God’s gracious providence my whole life and I’m grateful to witness God’s story continuing to unfold. I am honored to help guide the Greenville Oaks church family as we seek to inspire others to follow Jesus by clearly demonstrating that following him has led us to the best way of life possible.
Rob & Pat Stevens
Elder - Shepherding Team Chairman
Meet Rob
I was born and raised in Daytona Beach, Florida, along with my younger sister. We were not raised in a church-going family, but when I was five years old, our neighbors invited us to attend the Lutheran church they attended. That was my first introduction to God and Jesus. While in high school, I began questioning what my pastor was teaching, and the Holy Spirit was also working to bring me closer to Jesus and God. After graduating, I joined the U.S. Navy. In 1967 I met Pat, and we were married two years later. We have two grown children and five grandchildren. Pat is a retired school teacher, and I am retired from international logistics.
Shortly after being married, I was sent to Gitmo, Cuba, for two years. While in Gitmo, I found three families from the Churches of Christ and started worshiping with them. This was the time I matured and grew as a Christian. My faith in Jesus grew as I studied with the families I was worshiping with. After being discharged from the Navy in 1971, my job moved Pat and I to Orlando, Florida; Houston, Texas; Ft Lauderdale, Florida; Charleston, SC; Elizabeth, N.J.; and finally, to Plano, Texas, in 1990. We worshiped with a Church of Christ everywhere we have lived and served in a range of ministries. I’ve served as a deacon and worked in student ministry, with young married couples, taught adult classes, and preached when the preacher was out. In Plano we attended Waterview Church of Christ and helped start the Church of Christ on McDermott Road. In 2008, we attended Highland Oaks Plano Campus, where I served as an elder until the campus closed in 2014. Pat and I joined Greenville Oaks in August 2014.
The love we were shown at Greenville Oaks was what we were looking for. The energy and programs we could get involved in were just what I needed. I was asked to help start the Celebrate Recovery program, to lead a Young at Heart Group, and to be a facilitator in Rooted and Going Deeper. In 2016, I started a men’s fellowship breakfast and bible study that meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. I also meet with one man and a few other men for bible studies a couple of times each month. Greenville Oaks has allowed me to serve others by greeting and being part of the coffee service. Following Jesus’ two commands, "Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and spirit" and "Love your neighbor as you love yourself," is how I strive to live. I have served as an elder since 2022.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I have seen God's love in the people at Greenville Oaks, and I am very grateful to be a Christian and follower of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, serving the members of our faith family. I want others to know the Love of Jesus and our God. Demonstrating his love in the way we live will bring others to him. My wish is that we all become disciples for Jesus.
Rob & Amy Kranz
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Rob
I grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, as the oldest of four kids. My grandfather was a minister, so involvement in the church was a foregone conclusion. My parents made sure that faith was central to our upbringing and identity. Growing up in the churches of Christ, we were taught to know our Bibles well. However, much of that knowledge was used for proof-texting or to confirm that we were the ones properly following the scriptural "pattern" for worship. In many ways, the focus was on how to "do" church rather than how to "be" the church. Although my understanding of the Bible and my faith have changed significantly over the years, I appreciate how my parents and church instilled a deep knowledge of the Scriptures.
Amy and I met at church while we were both home from college, largely thanks to our mothers' plotting and prodding! We were married in 1988. Since then, God has blessed us with two sons and now two amazing daughters-in-law. In the various places we have lived, active participation in our local church has always been a priority. Teaching adult Bible classes has been my passion and calling.
Several years ago, I felt God's calling to deeper service. I left my career in software to pursue my passion for teaching more fully. That path led me to study at universities in Israel and Texas. We moved to the Metroplex in 2022, when I was accepted into the Hebrew Bible PhD program at a local university. Greenville Oaks was the first church we visited. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly that we didn't look anywhere else.
Since coming to Greenville Oaks, we quickly became part of a care group where we have developed close friendships. Amy and I have both been involved in teaching Gathering Circles. I can be found most Sunday mornings teaching the Bible Class Gathering Circle.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I am often asked how my academic study of the Bible has affected my faith. My response is that my faith is very different from what it was, yet it is also much deeper and stronger. I hope to inspire Greenville Oaks to read the Scripture with fresh eyes and to recognize that others from different backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic perspectives may read Scripture differently than our faith tradition. In doing so, I hope to better equip us to be the church God calls us to be in the twenty-first century.
Roger & Maria Hernandez
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Roger
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Roger & Sheila Hooten
Elder - Governance Team Chairman
Meet Roger
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Ron & Sally Zielke
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Ron
My wife, Sally and I were raised in Christian homes by parents who were heavily involved in their respective congregations. I grew up in rural central Washington attending two small churches, one a 30-minute drive each way three times a week. Sally grew up in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley. We met at a Christian college in Portland, Oregon, in 1978 and married in 1980. After graduating with a Business Administration degree, I became a Certified Public Accountant while working for a CPA firm. After a few years, I left public accounting for public and private industry working in several roles of increasing responsibility including the financial executive for two private companies. Over the years, Sally was a bookkeeper for a variety of companies including a large law firm and a multi-location physical therapy practice. She was also a licensed tax preparer and has run several half-marathons.
Tired of the clouds, drizzle and rain in Portland, we moved our young family to a dry and warm part of the Pacific Northwest where we lived for more than 25 years. We were involved in many church ministries during this time. Sally enjoyed teaching infants in Cradle Roll and helping with children’s ministry. I was a worship leader and served as both a Deacon and Elder.
In 2015 my employer asked me to move the company to the DFW area. The decision was difficult as we struggled with the thought of leaving a beautiful place with wonderful people and dear friends but after much prayer and counsel, we decided to move. We have been members of Greenville Oaks since arriving in Allen. We felt at home during our first visit and knew this was the congregation to which the Lord led us. We have been very active in the Worship Ministry Praise Team, and I help lead worship as needed.
We thoroughly enjoy being Papa and Grammy to five grandchildren, three of which live near us. When time allows, I enjoy bike riding, golf, and sports announcing.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I am humbled to serve as an Elder at Greenville Oaks and excited to be a part of what the Lord will do in Collin County and other parts of the world as we strive to be a church that inspires people to follow Jesus.
Tim & Patty Olree
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Tim
I grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, as the oldest of three children. I attended a Christian school for all 12 grades, then went to a Christian college. I met my wife, Patty, our last semester of college; we got married about a year and half later. We have two daughters and four grandchildren. I worked in IT for the same company for more than 33 years and retired early. In retirement, we've been blessed to travel many places. I also enjoy golf.
My family was deeply involved in church. I committed my life to Jesus and was baptized while young. I've tried to follow God all my life. My walk with God is consistent, with "highs" not very high and "lows" not very low.
Although I've been richly blessed, I've also suffered disappointments: death of a parent, job issues, church problems. When I think about giving up, I come back to the words of Peter in John 6:68: "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life."
My family and I became members at Greenville Oaks in January 1989. I have served as an elder since 2005. In addition to my role as elder, I also lead the Finance Team, work with Community Care, serve as "Minister of the Day" to assist our office staff, and participate as a greeter.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
I'm grateful for the way God has allowed Greenville Oaks to be a healthy, healing church. I'm excited about the opportunity we have to become more diverse as "One Church, Two Languages". I dream that God will help us become a church that truly inspires others to follow Jesus.
Tim & Michelle Barrick
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Tim
I grew up in a small town in Oklahoma as the youngest of three children. My parents were faithful servants of God, and their example shaped my early faith, values, and the way I learned to see the world. Our church played a central role in my life growing up. Some of my earliest memories are of attending pre-school, VBS, Sunday school and worship services there. My time in youth group was such a great blessing. There, my faith was nurtured and encouraged by many wonderful people and friends. It was during this time that I began to take the foundation that my parents had given me and make it my own. That church also holds a special place in my heart because it's where I met my future wife, Michelle.
Michelle was a grade behind me, so I headed off to college on my own a year ahead of her. College was definitely a growth opportunity for me. Choosing a difficult major gave me ample opportunities to reflect on my life choices and lean on God for strength and guidance! Finding a strong community of believers and friends at church was such a blessing and essential to my continued growth in Christ and as a person.
Michelle joined me at the same university a year later. We married toward the end of our college careers and eventually moved to the Dallas area for work. We settled in Allen at the end of 1999 and started attending Greenville Oaks around 2003.
Greenville Oaks quickly became a welcoming home for us. People learned our names, invited us into their small groups, and walked alongside us through the joys and struggles of raising a family, as well as the painful seasons of losing loved ones.
Since joining Greenville Oaks, we've served in several areas through the years. Michelle has worked closely with ministries that focus on our kids, students, and families while I've been blessed to serve on the praise team for the last 20 years and most recently as one of our shepherding elders.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
We have been so blessed to be a part of Greenville Oaks. We love the people and families here and are excited to see what God will do as we continue inspiring people to follow Jesus, sharing His grace with our community, and helping further God's Kingdom throughout Collin County and beyond.
Tim & Mollie Woodbridge
Elder - Shepherding Team
Meet Tim
I was blessed to be raised in a strong Christian family, the oldest of four boys with a legacy of faith on all sides. I was baptized at the age of nine and graduated from Lubbock Christian University. God blessed Mollie and me to meet at Greenville Oaks after the passing of Kyle and Tina. Together we are blessed to have five children and fifteen grandchildren. Mollie is a retired educator, and I am involved in IT operations and project management. I enjoy sports and music.
My grandparents were missionaries, and my father and various other close relatives were deacons, preachers, and elders. I was blessed to be mentored from an early age in our small church to pray and lead singing from the pulpit. I am blessed to have seen and experienced repeatedly that God is always good. He is our loving father, and I encourage everyone to trust God in your circumstances with all your heart.
I have been a member of Greenville Oaks for 20 years. During this time, I have participated in teaching children and adult classes. I have been a Connect Group leader for about sixteen years, volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, Love Where You Live, GO Benevolence, communion organizer, door greeter, prayer partners, minister search teams, and various Shepherding teams.
Hope for Greenville Oaks
My hope for Greenville Oaks is that we will continue to grow in our discipleship and becoming the presence of Jesus to our community. I pray people will think of GO in time of need and for people who don't know Jesus to learn of his love and become believers for the glory of God.