There are a number of roles found in Scripture that help the church to function as the body of Christ. Elders, also called overseers and shepherds (pastors), provide spiritual leadership and oversight in the local congregation. Deacons are selected to oversee the physical needs of the church. We have a full-time preacher who is continually engaged in preaching and teaching the Bible. In addition, several other members of our congregation volunteer in our teaching program (nursery to adult). While Christians serve in many capacities, the roles of elder, deacon, preacher, and teacher were specifically designed by the Lord for the building up of the body of Christ in love and good works.
Those among us who lead and minister
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Bill Boren - shepherd
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Dan Shriver - Shepherd
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Mark Stinnett - Preacher
I remember the day in 7th grade when I knew that I wanted to be a teacher. I enjoyed learning and then sharing my experience with others. I was given the opportunity to assist my high school math teacher and was actually trusted to teach two of his classes when he was away for a day. I began teaching Bible classes before graduating from high school and I have never stopped since that time.
I am very grateful for my college education at Harding University (Searcy, Ark.) where I received a B.A. in Bible and Religion. While there I gained tools for careful Bible study that continue to serve me today.
Upon graduation, recognizing my immaturity, I continued my education at the University of Missouri, Columbia were I earned a Teaching Certificate in Secondary Mathematics. I taught in the public school system in Missouri for eight years (Clark County Jr. High in Kahoka and Lewis & Clark Middle School in Jefferson City). To insure that my wife could stay home with the children, I left the classroom and began working for the district's technology support department where I held several positions over the next twelve years. (One of my primary tasks was teaching technology to teachers and staff.)
Having taught Bible classes and filled in preaching on a regular basis for 20 years, I was excited to began preaching full-time in 2007 for the Ellisville Church of Christ in Ellisville, Missouri. I began preaching for the Church of Christ in Quincy, Illinois in 2014.
I married the former Kristin Winget of Jefferson City, Missouri in 1981 and with her help have reared five wonderful daughters: Jessica Ward (with husband Josh and children Leila, Amelia, and John Caleb), in Little Rock, Arkansas; Hannah Verardi (with husband Mino), in Lecce, Italy; Katherine, New York City; Abigail in Searcy, Arkansas; and Emily at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. I have a truly wonderful wife and supportive family who are all strong in the Lord.
My hobbies include hiking with 'Cami' (my camera) on or off trail, fishing, collecting coins, and BBQ. (In the right crowd I'll admit to being a sci-fi movie fan.) I love to listen to the Good News Singers from Harding Univ., especially the years in which Katherine sang with the group. I enjoy other Christian music as well as a number of secular artists including: Mannheim Steamroller, Yanni, Enya, David Arkenstone, John Tesh, Ray Lynch, Jennifer Thomas and even an occasional Lindsey Sterling.
Life is not without challenges, but I have it really good. At the right time God opened the door for me to preach and teach His word full-time and I love what I do. Almost every day I find deeper meaning in the Scriptures and I often learn something new. How exciting it is to share and encourage others through the Scriptures, where all the answers are found. It is my passion to share God's word with believers and unbelievers alike.
One verse of Scripture is etched into my mind to remind me of our Great God and my place...at His feet:
But to this one I will look,
To him who is humble and contrite of spirit,
And who trembles at My word.
--Isaiah 66:2