Leadership

Pastors | Deacons | Staff

Pastors

Pastors are called to shepherd the Lord’s flock by leading, feeding, protecting, and caring for the spiritual needs of the church. As Acts 6:4 teaches, they are to devote themselves to the ministry of the Word and prayer.

Lead Pastor

Steve Von Bokern

Steve and Melinda Von Bokern came to Lifeway in July of 2001. Steve serves as the Senior Pastor of Lifeway. Steve has a M.Min and is currently finishing his M.Div. Melinda is finishing training to be certified as a biblical counselor. Steve and Melinda have been married since 1995. They are the parents of seven children.

Pastor of Member Growth

Doug Stewart

Doug and Heidi came to Lifeway in March of 2015. Pastor Doug's main emphasis is discipleship and education. He is also the editor for Glow Publications. Doug has a M.Min. and is currently finishing his M.Div. Doug and Heidi have been married since 2004 and have three children.

Deacons

Deacons are called to serve the church in a variety of ways. By meeting practical needs and caring for the congregation, they support the ministry of the pastors and strengthen the body of Christ.

Troy Gilstrap

I was saved in 1981, and my wife, Marceta, was saved in 1980. We were married at Lifeway in the old sanctuary in 1986, and this July we will celebrate 40 years of marriage together. My life verse is Acts 2:38: "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."

Jason Jedlicka

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Chuck Murray

My wife, Julie, and I have been married for 44 years. We have raised three children and enjoy spending time with our four grandchildren. We have been growing in Christ and serving at Lifeway for almost twenty-five years. I have served as a deacon, supporting our church body, since January 2026. For any Gaither Homecoming fans out there, I can sum up my life with one of my favorite songs: “Greatly Blessed, Highly Favored, Imperfect but Forgiven Child of God.”

Craig Harris

Cheri and I married in March 1997. I have been blessed to serve as a deacon at our church, where my family and I have been active members since joining in 2001 after first attending in August 2000. Cheri and I have been grateful to raise our four children—Colin, Caleb, Chloe, and Catie—in this loving church community. Professionally, I have worked as a Financial Advisor for the past 22 years, with the last 18 years spent at JPMorgan Chase. One of my favorite verses is Psalms 119:73 which says, “Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments.” It is a privilege to serve our church family, striving to honor God in all we do.

Rosh Dhanawade

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Staff

Our staff partners with the pastors and deacons to advance the church’s mission through strategic leadership, ministry oversight, and practical support.