Elders

Our elders work together to shepherd the flock entrusted to their care. Additionally, each elder gives oversight and spiritual leadership to a specific area of ministry.

Rick Cupples :: Pastor to pastors, Prayer, and Christ-Centerdness

Rick has been walking with Jesus for many years, having come to faith as a young man. He and his wife Carole are wonderful examples of godliness to the flock. Rick’s primary areas of spiritual oversight include caring for the souls of the pastors, prayer, and infusing Christ-centeredness in each of the ministries of Grace.

Nathan Sawyer :: Global Missions, Grace Groups, and Member Care

God opened Nathan’s heart to trust Jesus at an early age. He has been married to April since 2002, and they have one daughter and one son. In addition to shepherding the flock with the other elders, Nathan is a pastor-teacher at Grace overseeing global missions and Grace Groups. He also oversees member care.

Bryan Smith :: GraceKids, Financial Stewardship, and Local Missions

After studying in a bible college and preaching the gospel for several years, God graciously brought Bryan under deep conviction and opened his heart to believe the gospel. Bryan has been a husband to Angie since 2000, and is the father to one son and four daughters. Bryan is a pastor-teacher at Grace overseeing GraceKids, financial stewardship, and local missions.

Jim Suggs :: Worship Ministries, Hospitality, and Elder Chairman

Jim was converted in college through the ministry of a disciple-maker the Lord brought into his life. He is married to Brandy, and they have children: two daughters, two sons, and are awaiting two children via adoption from Ethiopia. In addition to serving as a shepherd to the flock, Jim oversees worship ministries, hospitality, and serves as the chairman of the elder council.

Jordan Thomas :: Preaching, Vision, and Leadership Development

God opened Jordan’s heart to believe the gospel during his freshman year of college. He has been preaching the gospel since 1997, is husband to Tracy, and has six children—four daughters and two sons. While serving with the other elders to provide soul-care to the flock, Jordan is a pastor-teacher at Grace overseeing vision and spiritual leadership.