Colin Smith*
Senior Pastor
Pastor Colin Smith was born and raised in Edinburgh, Scotland. He trained at London School of Theology, where he met his wife, Karen. He served as pastor of Enfield Evangelical Free Church in London for 16 years before coming to The Orchard in 1996. As Senior Pastor, he has brought a strong emphasis on God's Word, has helped the church develop a vision for the future and has encouraged and taught young preachers. Colin and Karen have two sons, Andrew and David.
Jeff Rylander*
Church Chairman
Jeff and Kathy began attending The Orchard in 1993 and have been members since 1997. During that time, Jeff served as Awana Sparks Director, a LIFE Group leader, and on missionary care teams. He currently serves as co-team leader for the 5th grade Sunday school at the Arlington Heights campus. Jeff and his family attend the Arlington Heights congregation.
(Term ends 2023)
Kyle Green
Pastor
Kyle is a gifted preacher who has been strategically equipped for ministry through Unlocking the Bible's pastoral residency. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, he moved to Chicago to attend Moody Bible Institute where he received a life-transforming, unforgettable education. He has great confidence in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and extreme zeal for discipleship among the body of believers. With great clarity of calling, Kyle often says, "By God's grace, I'm just as clear that I'm called to pastoral ministry as I am clear that my name is Kyle Green."
Kyle and his wife, Melina, have two young sons who they like to call "The Green Beans," Avery and Amari. The Greens love to eat Kyle's signature popcorn that he makes every Friday for movie night.
Tom Olson
Pastor
Tom grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He attended Wheaton College, where he met his wife, Kari. Tom and Kari were married in 2004, and have two daughters, Kettie and Tovie, and a son, Thomas. Tom served as contemporary worship pastor at The Orchard Barrington while completing his Master of Divinity degree at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 2007. From 2008-2012 he was the high school pastor, and now serves as Pastor of the Barrington congregation.
Josh Parsons
Pastor
Josh grew up in Minnesota and has been married to his wife, Sarah, since 2010. They have three children, Nora, Quinn and Haddon. Josh has attended The Orchard since 2011, and in May 2016 began his role as Pastor for The Orchard Northfield. Josh loves Jesus, his church, his family, and superheroes.
Justin Searles
Pastor
Justin grew up in Crystal Lake, IL and attended Judson University, where he met his wife, Valerie. They have three boys: Elijah, Luke, and Levi. Over the past 20+ years in ministry, Justin has served as a youth pastor, family pastor, church planter, executive pastor, and hospital chaplain. Justin has a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, 300 hours of clinical pastoral training, and completed an eight-month full-time pastoral training residency with Reach Chicago (EFCA).
Brad Wetherell
Pastor
Brad grew up in Glen Ellyn, IL. He received a B.A. in Biblical Literature from Taylor University, a M.Div. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a D.Min. from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Brad has been on staff at The Orchard since 2011 and now serves as the Pastor at The Orchard Arlington Heights. Brad is married to Kristen, they have three children, Joanna, John and Lydia.
Tom Yoon
Pastor
Tom grew up in Chicago, Illinois. He attended the University of Illinois in Chicago where he completed his Bachelor of Arts in History. Soon after, Tom began his pursuit of the Master of Divinity at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, completing his degree in 2010. Tom has served in various ministry positions in the Chicagoland area and has served at The Orchard since 2013. He has been married to April since 2011 and both are kept on their toes with their three energetic kids.
Beth Acosta
Director of Human Resources
Beth is originally from southeastern Michigan and attended Michigan State University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Employment Relations and Organizational Psychology. Beth moved to the northwest suburbs in 1993 to pursue a career in human resources and while doing so earned her MBA with an emphasis on Organizational Development at Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. Beth has held various corporate and consulting positions focused on employee benefits, recruiting, and staff development. Beth and her husband Andres, a school Social Worker in District 211, have five children and enjoy attending band and choir concerts, sporting events, and ballet recitals.
Herb Ahne
Worship Pastor
Herb was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Trinity International University in Deerfield, Illinois. After spending six years in the marketplace, God called him into full-time ministry in 2003. He has been married to his wife, Alice, since 2010 and they have three children: Jadon, Maddie and Natalie. Herb's hope is that all people could really experience the transforming power of the gospel.
Annie Aiello
Director of Communications
As a native of Arlington Heights, The Orchard has had a life-long impact on Annie’s personal faith journey. She found Christ while attending Illinois State University, has earned her MBA in Marketing and has over 20 years of marketing and communications experience in both non-profit and ministry organizations. Annie is a resident of Crystal Lake, enjoys coffee, singing and spending time with her two children, Samantha and Luke and her rescue Lab, Wrigley. Her life verse is Hebrews 11:8.
Joel Armstrong
IT Manager
Joel grew up traveling as part of a military family, attending, and graduating from high school in Nairobi, Kenya. Joel graduated with a bachelor’s degree in computer Science from Wheaton College. He gained experience as an IT Helpdesk Supervisor at Wheaton and now serves as the IT Manager at The Orchard. Joel loves traveling and trying new things.
Iwona Banasik
Café Coordinator
Iwona was born in Poland where she graduated School of Economics with a degree in organization and management of small businesses. She, her husband Ted, and their young children, came to Chicago in 1994. Over the years, Iwona worked as a preschool teacher, property manager, server trainer in a restaurant and, recently, as a manager at Starbucks. Iwona has led a multiple-languages interpretation ministry, was a leader of the Polish church community, as well as helped to organize Polish women's conferences with Mission Poland ministry. All of these experiences have helped prepare her for ministry at The Orchard. Iwona and Ted enjoy road trips, fellowship with their friends, hiking and, of course, coffee.
Tim Banna
Pastoral Resident
Tim was born and raised in the Chicagoland area in a multicultural family: half Israeli-Palestinian, half Polish. He is married to the love of his life, Emily Katherine, whom he met while a student at Wheaton College. Tim aspires to pastor and preach the Gospel wherever God sends him, either locally or abroad. After completing his Certificate of Pastoral Ministry, he yearns to plant churches among Muslim peoples. Tim loves to travel and try new ethnic foods, ask deep questions, and learn about new cultures.
Claire Bechard
Director of Administration
Claire grew up in southeastern Michigan. She studied social work at both Central Michigan University and the University of Michigan before moving to the northwest suburbs in January 2006. The Orchard became her church home shortly after moving. Claire joined the staff in March 2008 to help develop and support the LIFE Group ministry. After serving as the Director of Communications for nine years, she became the Director of Administration in 2021.
Dan Benson
Member at Large
Dan was born and raised in the northwest suburbs. He became aware of his sin and need for a savior at a young age and put his faith in Jesus Christ as Lord through Awana. He was baptized in 1995, married to Karen in 2002 and they became members of The Orchard in 2012. A serial entrepreneur, he enjoys creating and running various small business endeavors. Dan, Karen, and their three children attend the Barrington campus where Dan serves as a LIFE Group leader, usher, and Awana volunteer. Dan has had the privilege of participating in Unlocking the Bible’s LEVERAGE and will graduate from MOMENTUM this year. God has given Dan a heart for missions, with a specific draw to the church planters in Albania, where he has had the joy of participating in numerous short-term trips. Dan currently serves on the board of the Via Egnatia Network and the Radstock Network. Dan and his family attend the Barrington Campus.
(Term Ends 2023)
Jon Beveridge
IT Systems Analyst
Jon grew up in Florida and graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Business Administration. While working in the IT industry for five years, Jon discovered a God-given passion for training and developing people to be successful in their work. He married Meghan in 2010 and soon after served for four years as a college English instructor in the heart of northern China. Upon returning to the United States, Jon’s family moved to the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago where they became members of The Orchard in 2016. Jon is grateful for the opportunity to help others thrive in ministry at The Orchard through the use of well-working technology. Jon enjoys photography, gardening, and spending time with Meghan and their three children, Daniel, Joshua, and Eliana.
Bob Bollweg
Treasurer
Bob grew up in Wheaton, Illinois and came to faith in 8th grade at a camp led by his high school football coach. After studying economics at Wheaton College, he moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he worked in finance and continued to mature in faith under strong Biblical preaching and a thriving church community. Bob and Lexie were married in 2003 and served at the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, MN. While working in finance, he felt led to teach at the high school level. Bob completed his Masters of Education and began teaching and coaching football. His family moved back to Illinois, where he continues to grow in his faith while active in LIFE Groups and serving in children’s ministry. Bob and Lexie are passionate about adoption and orphan care, and have led adoption-related studies. The Lord has strengthened Bob’s faith through the power of His Word and His sacrificial love on the cross.
He and his wife, Lexie, were drawn to the community of believers and Christ-centered preaching and teaching at The Orchard five years ago. They have been members for four years and are part of the Arlington Heights congregation.
Jordan Bradish*
Elder at Large
As an Arlington Heights native, Jordan grew up at The Orchard Arlington Heights. It was at summer camp that he recognized his sin separated from the Lord and he responded in faith and repentance. Three of Jordan’s spiritual milestones took place at The Orchard: he was baptized in 1997, became a member in 2005, and met his wife, Kristina, and married in 2006. He is grateful for The Orchard’s wholehearted commitment to standing under the authority of Scripture and teaching the full counsel of God.
Jordan’s involvement at The Orchard has included serving and leading in a variety of ministries: student, adult Sunday School, global ministries, hospitality, and The Orchard Network. He and Kristina were part of the group who helped launch the Barrington congregation. Jordan has also served with Bible Study Fellowship for more than 10 years. Jordan and Kristina are overjoyed to raise their children within a community of believers who aim to know Christ and make him known.
Heather Carrera
Connections Coordinator
Heather grew up in the far south suburb of Frankfort, Illinois. She and her husband, George, met at Lake Geneva Youth Camp the summer of 1978 during their high school years and were married in 1984. They raised three sons and were delighted when they became blessed with a daughter-in-law and later again with granddaughter, Madison. Heather is excited to be serving at The Orchard after 30 years of being a homemaker and serving in various volunteer roles in the church.
Garry Carter*
Vice Chairman
Garry grew up in Central Illinois. He put his faith in Christ at the University of Illinois and was discipled through the ministry of the Navigators. Garry spent most of his career in the Medical Device industry serving in leadership positions while moving across the United States. After relocating from California, Garry and his wife, Sandy, began attending The Orchard Barrington in 2016 and became members in 2017. They have served as LIFE Group leaders and Coaches, and as part of the Welcome Team. Garry has served for more than 20 years on the Board of Directors of the Navigators where he currently serves as Vice Chairman. Garry’s passion is encouraging and strengthening believers as they engage with Jesus, and both he and Sandy have been continuously involved in discipling believers wherever they lived. Garry and Sandy are part of the Barrington congregation.
Marilyn Coe
Receptionist and Facility Scheduler
Born and raised in Michigan, Marilyn is the daughter of a pastor. She married her high school sweetheart, Forrest, and they are the parents of four adult daughters. Their family also includes four sons-in-law and 12 grandchildren. Marilyn returned to college in 2007 and earned a Bachelor of Arts from Judson University in 2009. She began attending The Orchard in June 2007 and joined the staff in December 2010. Her passion is facilitating the work of the ministry by assisting staff and church members, which she has been privileged to do for over two decades. Marilyn’s ministry verse is Ephesians 5:2.
Dennis Colton
Pastor of Family Ministries
Dennis was born and raised in eastern Iowa. He attended the University of Northern Iowa where he studied music education. He spent five years teaching instrumental music at a middle school in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Feeling a call to full-time student ministry, Dennis began seminary in 2006. He graduated from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 2009 with a Master of Divinity and a desire to invest in the next generation with the Gospel. Dennis brings more than 10 years of full-time student ministry experience to The Orchard. Prior to joining The Orchard’s staff, Dennis served as Pastor of Student Ministries at churches in Cedar Falls, Iowa; Lansing, Illinois and Orland Park, Illinois. Dennis and his wife, Kelli, were married in 2007 and have two children, Emilee and Joshua.
Kari Cox
Children's Ministry Coordinator
Kari grew up in a Christian home in the suburbs of Chicago. She studied elementary education at Elmhurst University and taught as an elementary teacher for several years. Kari and her husband Clayton began attending The Orchard Itasca shortly after they got married in 2017. Kari and Clayton have one son, Judah. Kari has served in Awana, on the Welcome Team and in the nursery. She is deeply committed to seeing children at her church flourish through knowing Christ and His Word.
Dawn Dobner
Children and Student Ministries Coordinator
Dawn earned her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Elmhurst College and her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Northern Illinois University. She married her best friend, Mark, in 1997. After over a decade of teaching high school math, Dawn stepped away from the classroom to be mom to her two boys. The Dobners started attending The Orchard in 2008 and joined the launch group that started the Barrington congregation. Throughout the years, the Dobner family has been blessed serving in a variety of ways, and currently, Dawn is co-leading Awana Sparks. She enjoys reading, exploring state and national parks with her family, and watching her boys on the baseball field.
Ann Dorner
Staff Accountant
Ann and her husband Steve started attending The Orchard Arlington Heights in August 2020. She finds great joy in volunteering as a greeter at The Orchard! Ann and Steve have three married daughters, three beautiful grandchildren and four grand-dogs. Ann has been in the accounting field for over 20 years and has enjoyed being self-employed for 10 of those years. When she's not working, Ann enjoys playing golf.
Heather English
Director of Women's Ministries
Heather was born and raised in Arlington Heights and Palatine, IL. God gave her the gift of saving faith at an early age, and she was baptized by her grandfather. Heather attended Calvin College, where she met her husband, Jason. They were married in 2001 and have three kids: Christopher, Carson, and Emilie. Previously, Heather taught high school English while completing a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She stayed home for 13 years with her kids and remains busy volunteering in her kids’ schools and activities. She has felt a call to women’s ministry since age 16 and looks forward to seeing the Lord’s faithfulness in building His church.
Elizabeth Freeman
Receptionist and Facility Scheduler
Elizabeth grew up in Burlington, Iowa and attended Millikin University, where she studied piano and received a Bachelor in Communications. Elizabeth and her husband, Dale, have two sons and live in Arlington Heights. She and her family have been members of The Orchard since 1999. Elizabeth has enjoyed serving in various ministries and currently serves as Sparks Director and is on the Orchard Kids Welcome Team at the Barrington Campus.
Larry Frisk
Technical Director
Larry grew up in the Chicagoland area where he began his career in audio visual technology in live sound, studio recording and mobile DJ work. It was during this time that Larry met his wife, Karin, and they began their walk with Christ together. Shortly after this, a door was opened for Larry to use his skills to support ministry and he realized he had found his calling. Prior to joining the staff at The Orchard, Larry worked for more than 12 years shepherding teams to deliver worship services and curate God’s Word through the use of technology. Larry and Karin love to spend time with family, enjoying nature, and sharing the blessings that God continually unveils.
Chris Gerts
Administrative Assistant
Chris serves as an Administrative Assistant at The Orchard Arlington Heights. Chris grew up on the East Coast and met her husband, Bob, an Arlington Heights native, at college and has been a Midwesterner ever since! Serving as an Administrative Assistant in the healthcare industry for many years, God has given Chris the opportunity to serve Him and His Church at The Orchard Arlington Heights. Chris and her husband have two daughters, they love to hike, bike, and find new trails to explore in their free time. Their lives are full and blessed as new grandparents.
Anna Hand
Administrative Assistant, Family Ministries
Anna was born in Oklahoma but grew up in the Cincinnati area. She graduated from Cedarville University in 2020 with a major in Psychology and a minor in Bible. This past year, she worked at the Miami Valley Women’s Center in the Dayton area, doing office work as well as meeting with clients for pregnancy-related counseling. Anna and her husband, Ethan, met at Cedarville and were married in December 2020. Anna enjoys coffee shops, is an INFJ on the Myers Briggs and loves anything Disney related.
Ethan Hand
Pastoral Resident
Ethan grew up in Arlington Heights and began attending The Orchard when he was in elementary school. Ethan lived in Ohio for four years while he completed an undergraduate degree and worked in IT. Ethan and his wife, Anna, were married in 2020, and both have a passion for vocational ministry. Ethan enjoys making his own coffee, watching movies, and has an intense appetite for reading.
Eri Heck
Administrative Assistant
Eri was born and raised in Japan. At age 14, not knowing much English, she came to United States to attend a Christian school in Oklahoma. There she came to know Jesus as her personal Savior and Lord. Eri's husband Greg - a photographer, and adult children - Myles and Jessica, have been attending The Orchard since 1994. Eri joined the staff in 2006, serving in various ministries, and now supports Congregational Life and Women’s Ministries. She enjoys leading an inter-generational LIFE Group for women. One of her favorite verses is 2 Corinthians 9:8.
Tae Hwang
Pastor of Congregational Life and Worship
Tae was born in South Korea and moved to Virginia in middle school. He graduated from Wheaton College with degrees in Business and Economics, and Christian Education and received his Master of Divinity at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He has served in various pastoral roles since 2009. His relationship with The Orchard began through the two-year pastoral residency through Unlocking the Bible in 2015. He is married to Christeen, and has two kids, Abigail and Simeon.
Carl Johnson
Campus Administrator
Carl comes to The Orchard from Fargo, North Dakota. He is currently attending Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, following in his father’s footsteps pursuing a Master of Divinity. He has attended The Orchard since 2018, has served in student and children’s ministries for most of his life, and hopes to enter pastoral ministry. Carl is excited to be able to serve Northfield as an intern and hopes to make an impact for Christ and His Kingdom.
Peiman Khamisi
Pastoral Resident
Peiman is from Iran and spent half of his life residing there. Peiman arrived in Glen Ellyn in September, 2009 and met his wife, Ashley, at church. They both have a passion to see Jesus praised and glorified among sojourners and refugees. Peiman likes riding bicycles and hiking. He grew up playing soccer, and still enjoys playing. He speaks three languages: Arabic, Farsi and English.
Laura Kleinschmidt
Director of Women’s Ministries
Laura is originally from Ohio and moved to the Chicago area to work as an engineer after she graduated from college. She and her family started attending The Orchard in 2003 and she joined The Orchard staff in 2008. Laura has since completed her master’s in counseling from Westminster Theological Seminary. In her role, she leads women’s LIFE Groups, women’s events and assists the pastors in pastoral care. Laura and her husband, Dave, have three adult children - Megan, Adam, and Aaron. She enjoys kayaking, singing and laughing while playing tennis. Laura has a passion for helping women practically apply the Gospel to their lives and is excited to be serving at The Orchard.
Rachel Kouris
Administrative Assistant
Rachel grew up in Mill Creek, Indiana as a pastor’s kid. After completing her Bachelors Degree in Education at Judson University, she became Executive Director of a childcare facility. She and her husband, Alex, moved to Marengo 20 years ago. Rachel and Alex, along with their four children, calling The Orchard their home in 2012.
Jo Kok
Member at Large
Jo was born and raised in Singapore and moved to Chicago with her husband, Arthur, in 2010. They started attending The Orchard in 2012, becoming members in 2015. God planted the seed of faith in Jo at 9-years-old, when she put her faith in Christ. He watered it over the years through strong Bible teaching and Christian fellowship; and pruned her through service and challenging seasons. He continues to grow her in submission to Christ as Lord, and love for God and her neighbor. Jo’s areas of service have included co-leading LIFE Groups with Arthur, teaching in Orchard Kids, facilitating Bible studies (at work and summer woman’s ministry), ushering, discipleship and counseling. She loves Christ’s church and is passionate about encouraging other’s growth in the Lord. Jo and her family were part of the Arlington Heights congregation for eight years and are currently part of the Barrington congregation.
Kristin Kulisek
Communications Coordinator
Kristin grew up in the western suburbs of Chicago. She studied Advertising at North Park University, and worked in property management and then as Marketing Coordinator for a manufacturing company in Itasca, IL. She left the corporate world in search of an opportunity to use her skills to help others. Kristin lives in Bartlett with her dog Mila. She enjoys traveling, hiking, kayaking, running, and baking.
Greg Lawrence
Pastor of Congregational Life
Greg was born and raised in Hamilton, New Jersey. He received his M.Div from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he met his wife, Megan. He served as a Discipleship Pastor while church planting in Pittsburgh, PA, prior to coming to The Orchard in 2021. Greg is passionate about seeing people grow closer to God and one another, especially through LIFE Groups. In his free time, he enjoys playing violin, woodworking, gardening, playing ice hockey, and wrestling his two boys, Graeson and Theodor.
Jeanne Lewandowski
Graphic Designer
Jeanne grew up in Arlington Heights in a family of eight kids. She graduated from Arlington High School before it closed in 1984. Jeanne has enjoyed creating art in all mediums for as long as she can remember. She attended Columbia College to study Graphic Design where she fell in love with the beauty of figure drawing. She moved to Wauconda in 1996, bought her first house and started her family. She has two daughters, Emma and Grace.
Dillon Mack
Pastor of Worship and Families
Dillon grew up in Arlington Heights and has attended The Orchard since 2001. While at The Orchard, he served in a variety of ministries, including Awana and the Middle School ministry. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Exposition from the Moody Bible Institute, he is now pursuing a Master of Divinity degree at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Dillon served as a Student Ministries Intern for the Arlington Heights congregation beginning in May 2014. He served as Interim Pastor at Marengo from February to June 2020 and is now serving as the Pastor of Worship, Children and Congregational Life. He is passionate about clearly and effectively preaching God’s Word to the church and hopes to serve as a missionary in Hungary one day.
Michael May
Worship Pastor
Michael was born and raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He became a follower of Christ in 2010, and soon after joined the youth worship band at his church. Serving on this team led Michael to feel a call to vocational worship ministry. He attended Liberty University and graduated with a Music and Worship degree in 2019. Michael is passionate about singing God’s truth with God’s people, and is excited to grow personally and spiritually as he joins The Orchard.
Russ McCune
Executive Director of Operations and Finance
Russ grew up in Galesburg, Illinois and graduated from Illinois State University. Prior to joining the staff at The Orchard he worked in hospital operations and account management with a software development company in the healthcare industry. Russ and his wife Julie, a teacher, have three children and enjoy camping, kayaking, bike riding and Blackhawks hockey along with most any sporting event.
Jyoti Mottier
Accounting Clerk
Jyoti was born and raised in Indianapolis. She graduated in 1990 with a degree in Engineering from Purdue University and worked as a Software Engineer at Motorola Mobility. Jyoti started attending The Orchard Barrington in 2014 with her husband Matt. Together, they have two adult daughters, Rebecca and Abi. In her free-time, Jyoti enjoys traveling and watching Purdue Boilermaker basketball.
Brad Mullet
Director of Global Ministries
Brad was born in Colorado and grew up at Calvary Bible Evangelical Free Church in Boulder. He finished high school in Vienna, Austria where he started corresponding with his future wife, Kari. Brad is a licensed aircraft mechanic and pilot, served as a Russian Linguist in the United States Air Force, and went on to earn a B.A. in Aviation Science from College of the Ozarks. Brad and Kari helped plant the First Evangelical Free Church in Springfield, Missouri before being sent to Budapest, Hungary in 1999. They were supported missionaries of The Orchard while serving with ReachGlobal. Brad and Kari have four children: Whitney, Kelsey, Peter, and Jacob. As the Director of Global Ministries, Brad will play a key role in helping us fulfill The Orchard’s mission around the world.
Josh Newton
Pastor of Student Ministries
Josh Newton began attending The Orchard in 2008 after moving to the Chicagoland area in 2006 from Boone, NC. He came with his wife, Diana, leaving the Appalachian Mountains to follow the Lord’s call to youth ministry. While earning his Master of Divinity he served as a youth intern under Bing Nieh, working with our middle school students. He graduated from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in December 2010 and transitioned to Pastor of Student Ministries at the Barrington Campus in the spring of 2011. Josh, Diana and their chiweenie, Scout, now live in Palatine and are excited to see what the Lord has in store for them in the years to come.
Ryo Otsuka
Technical Director
Ryo grew up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with a passion for all things music. He became a follower of Christ in 2000, and has been attending The Orchard with his wife, Nao, and their three kids, Shion, Lin, and Rae since 2017. He has a passion for serving the Lord, and is grateful to be doing so as a member of The Orchard's staff.
Scoty Pasupuleti
Pastoral Resident
Scoty was born in Chennai, India, and lived there for most of his life. After completing his MBA in Scotland, Scoty moved to Hyderabad, India, where he met his wife. Scoty has been living in Deerfield, Illinois for the past six years. He and his wife, Mamtha Sagiraju, have two daughters, Ikya Zarah Samuel (9) and Mahira Zayne Samuel (3). After completing his CPM, Scoty hopes to start a church plant. Music has been a vital part of Scoty's life. He plays guitar, piano, ukulele, cajón, banjo, and djembe. He loves to cook and speaks six Indian languages. Scoty also acted in a small role in a South Indian film. His latest activity is tennis.
Victoria Paul
Director of Children's Ministries
Victoria grew up in Palatine, IL before attending Wheaton College for a Bachelor’s in Christian Education and a Minor in German Language. After serving as a Director of Children’s Ministries in Bloomingdale, IL, she spent the next few years as a 1:1 Aid at a Therapeutic Day School for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder while also pursuing a Masters in Christian Formation and Ministry from Wheaton College. She is deeply passionate about helping kids of all abilities hear the Gospel and know Jesus as their Savior. She lives in Schaumburg with her husband, Brent Steinke.
Frank Pollina
Facility Manager
Frank, his wife, Diane, and their three kids, Anthony, Kaitlin, and Kyle, have been living in Arlington Heights and attending The Orchard for 17 years. They have served in Sunday school, Awana, and Middle School ministries. Frank studied architecture at IIT in Chicago before he owned and operated a North Shore landscaping company for more than 20 years. He joined The Orchard staff in January 2006.
Michael Porter
Pastor of Campus Ministries
Michael grew up in southern California. He received a B.A. in audio engineering and design from CSUDH and worked in that field for a number of years before pursuing his M.Div. at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Michael has served in a variety of roles over the years and now looks forward to serving The Orchard Arlington Heights as Pastor of Campus Ministries. Michael is married to Takana and they have two young daughters and a small dog, Goku.
Ryan Potelicki
Pastor of Congregational Life
Ryan was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Ryan went to school at Trinity International University where he earned both a bachelor’s and master's degree in theology. Before serving the Itasca congregation, Ryan served for two years as the Director of Middle School for the Arlington Heights congregation.
Robin Price
Director of Children's Ministries
Robin grew up in Mexico, Missouri. She attended Missouri Institute of Science and Technology where she met her husband, Joe. Joe and Robin were married in 1992 and they have six children: Lauren, Sara, Nathan, Ashley, Maggie, and Ptolemy. After working as an engineer for several years, Robin took time off to homeschool her children. Robin has previously served as a Children’s Ministry Director as well as in benevolence, missions, small group leadership, and biblical counseling. She enjoys reading, cooking, and playing piano in her free time.
Valerie Prorok
Cafe Coordinator
Valerie grew up in Michigan and traveled to Illinois to attend Judson College. She received her bachelors degree in Visual Communications, and shortly after, met her husband, Brent. They are raising two young boys and stay busy volunteering with school, sports, and church activities. Valerie is excited to see God working through the Café ministry.
Mike Russell*
Membership Elder
Mike grew up in the Chicago area and came to faith at the end of high school. At the University of Illinois, he was blessed to find fellowship through a campus ministry and see the importance of Bible study, discipleship, and finding a Christ-centered, Bible preaching church. His college roommate invited him to attend The Orchard in the summer of 2000 and he started attending full-time in 2003 after graduating. He met his wife Kristin at church in 2004, and they were married at The Orchard in 2007. Mike and Kristin have been members since 2006. They have served The Orchard in various capacities. Mike has led a LIFE Group since 2003 and Sunday school for student ministries since the Barrington Campus started meeting in 2008. Mike and Kristin have been leading a LIFE Group together since 2009 and have delighted in seeing family's grow in their love and commitment to the Lord. Mike served a three-year term on the Nominating Committee and was part of the committee that planned Pastor Colin and Karen's 20 year anniversary celebration. Mike and his family attend the Barrington Campus.
(Term ends 2023)
Heather Safford
Director of Children’s Ministries
Heather has attended The Orchard since 2003. She and her husband, Steve, have three children: Colin, Sean and Meghan. She became a Christian at the University of Kentucky in 1988. After receiving her Master’s degree in Learning Disabilities, Heather taught students with special needs for ten years and coached various activities before staying home to raise her children. During those years she volunteered in various ministries at The Orchard.
Jeremy Schambach
Pastor of Children’s and Student Ministries
Jeremy was raised in Arlington Heights and has attended The Orchard since he was in the nursery. He spent a year after high school studying in England at Capernwray Bible School. There, he grew in his understanding of the Word and the vitality of it being in his daily life. After receiving his Bachelor's Degree in Youth Ministry and Counseling at Moody Bible Institute, he returned to England as a missionary serving at Capernwray. He returned to Chicago the following year to pursue further education, and it was during that year he met his wife, Kristin, who he married in June 2016. He completed his Masters of Divinity at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 2021. He is passionate about Student Ministries because it had a massive impact on his coming to know Christ as Lord of his life.
Trey Sonnenberg
Associate Pastor
Trey graduated from Taylor University with a BA in Christian Educational Ministries and an MDiv from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is married to Nikki and they have three children: Crew, Greyson, and JD. They have been worshiping at The Orchard Barrington since 2016, and Trey began his role at The Orchard in 2019. As Associate Pastor, Trey serves alongside Tom Olson to oversee the ministry operations and staff at Barrington.
Georgette Steiger
Global Ministries Coordinator
Georgette and her husband, Joe, came to The Orchard in 1996 and soon after began serving in Student Ministries. In 2007, Georgette joined The Orchard Student Ministries staff. Georgette now works alongside Brad Mullet, coordinating Global Ministries at The Orchard. She enjoys facilitating mission trips and has been blessed to serve personally on short team teams for Katrina, Bangkok, Greece and Hungary. She and Joe have two adult children, Andrew (and wife Emily) and Ally and (husband Will).
Brent Steinke
Pastoral Resident
Brent grew up in Glendale Heights and has lived in the suburbs of Chicago his whole life. Brent is married to Victoria Paul, Director of Children’s Ministries at The Orchard Vernon Hills. Following his CPM, Brent desires to be an associate pastor or a pastor of congregational life. He enjoys playing basketball and can still dunk a basketball.
Albin Sterneman
Pastor of Student Ministries
Albin is from Minnesota and attended the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, Minnesota where he played football as well as earned his Bachelors of Pastoral Ministry & Bible and his Masters of Divinity. Albin and his wife, Annelise, reside in Arlington Heights and enjoy walking, rollerblading, and even running from time to time. Albin's favorite book of the Bible is Ephesians and his favorite food is Mexican.
Shohei Suzuki
Pastor of Outreach
Shohei was born and raised in Japan. He came to Chicago in 2004 with his family and has been on staff at The Orchard since 2008. He loves to share the good news of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19-20) and has a vision for all diverse people being united in the name of Jesus worshiping Him together (Revelation 7:9). He graduated from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 2008 with his Master of Divinity. Shohei and his wife, Nami, have two children, Paul and Rayna. He enjoys reading, exercising, and playing electric guitar.
Andrea Swanson
Barrington Congregation Administrator
Seeking career advancement, Andrea moved from her home in Madison, WI, to the northwest suburbs of Chicago in 2001. There she met her husband, Greg, and they were married in 2005. After years of working in corporate retail and non-profit associations specializing in website development, Andrea took some time away from her career to focus on her family. She is excited to now use her creative abilities and administrative gifts to serve the staff and congregants at The Orchard. Outside of work, Andrea serves as a leader in the high school youth group ministry, and is a lover of good books, genealogy, and cake decorating. She lives in Palatine, IL with her husband, Greg, and their three children, Sofie, Ben, and Axel.
Luke Trifilio
Pastor of Congregational Life
Luke was born in Chicago and raised in Deerfield, IL. After high school, he went to culinary school in Providence RI, and worked as a chef in several exclusive restaurants in southern California. After ten years, Luke returned to the Chicagoland area and found his passion for God’s Word and spiritual growth. Upon graduating from Trinity with a Master of Divinity, Luke and Rachel married and currently live in Carol Stream. He has moved out of the kitchen to pursue pastoral ministry, but still loves to use his culinary skills and hospitality for the gift of the Gospel.
Kostas Trigkas
Pastoral Resident
Kostas was born and raised in Athens, Greece. He studied dentistry and as a dentist he worked with refugees from Iran and Afghanistan. At the same time, he was a part-time student at the Greek Bible College. Before joining The Orchard, he was an elder at his local church, the Free Evangelical Church of Melissia, serving in several roles. He has been married to Erini since 2017, and they have a son named Angelos. Kostas loves getting to know people, playing soccer, board games and chess. Through The Orchard School of Ministry, he hopes to grow in his practical and teaching skills before he returns to Greece to serve the Lord with his family.
Eileen Walsh
Central Administrator
Eileen grew up in Crystal Lake in a family of 6 kids and a variety of dogs, cats, chipmunks, etc. She met her husband Dick at church; they married in 1995. Eileen has worked in a variety of industries: travel, auto sales, retail, event planning and small office management. The desire to plan, organize and figure things out has run throughout her career (except that auto sales stint). She and her husband have attended The Orchard Barrington since fall of 2018. She is excited to join the central staff to support the work of the church with her experience & skills. Eileen enjoys spending time with her family and 2 cats, biking, gardening and baking.
Joe Wellington
Pastoral Intern
Joe Wellington was born and raised in India and surrendered his life to Christ at an early age in a children’s camp. He came to Chicago for work in the year 2007 and has been living here since then. He has been a member of The Orchard since 2014. He has completed his Masters in Computer Applications and works as a Data Engineer. Through a tragic event in his life the Lord brought a renewed hunger and passion for His Word. He loves studying the Word and finds great joy in sharing the treasures of His Word with others. He has sensed the Lord calling him to the preaching ministry and has started as a pastoral intern with The Orchard School of Ministry. As a lay leader at The Orchard, Joe has led LIFE Groups and multiple Indian outreach events. Joe enjoys biking, visiting national parks and his ideal relaxing vacation is a lake/beach house! Joe and Rupa were married in 2009 and have three children Joshua, Joneeta and Jiya.
Dan Wells
Worship Pastor
Worship Pastor Dan Wells became a Christian in 1992 and poured his life into the Church. In the spring of 2000, he began full-time ministry at the Evangelical Free Church in Orange, CA, where he served until God called him here to The Orchard in September 2007. Trained in music at UCLA, Dan holds BA and MA degrees in composition and piano performance. He has been married since 1995 to his wife, Midge, and has three wonderful children, Lea, Donny, and Debbie.
Griffin Williams
Worship Pastor
Griffin was born and raised in Fargo, North Dakota. He studied music at North Dakota State University while also cultivating a deep love for local church ministry. Upon graduation, Griffin came to The Orchard in August 2016. He and his wife, Alex, were married in 2017. Griffin and Alex enjoy experiencing God’s creation in nature and making food together.
Russ Williams
Facility Manager
Russ earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from Taylor University, where he met his wife, Sandy. They live in Arlington Heights and have attended The Orchard since 1982. Prior to coming on staff in April 2010, he was project manager for a large real estate/property management firm in Chicago. Russ has previously served on the Audio Visual and Properties Councils. Russ and Sandy have two grown daughters who live in the area.
Sandy Williams
Executive Assistant
Sandy grew up in Erie, PA and met her husband, Russ, at Taylor University in Indiana. They have been attending The Orchard since shortly after their marriage in 1982 and have two adult daughters who are married and live in the area. Sandy came on staff in 2004, working for Pastor Colin's radio ministry, Unlocking the Bible, and in 2006 became Pastor Colin’s Executive Assistant.
Amy Wilson
Children’s Ministries Coordinator
Amy grew up in Palatine, IL and at The Orchard. She studied Elementary Education at Wheaton College. After meeting her husband, Karl, at The Orchard, they married in 2002. They have two daughters, Kaeleigh and Madison.
Lauren Zaubi
Administrative Assistant
Lauren grew up in Ohio and put her faith in Christ when she was 5-years-old. She attended The Chapel in Akron, Ohio where she met her husband, Matt. At that church, she began serving in children’s ministry. Through many years and different ministries, she’s enjoyed teaching children in various capacities and has been involved with Orchard Kids since 2011 at the Arlington Heights Campus. She enjoys working on repurposing furniture and home décor and maintains a DIY blog in her “spare” time. Her son and daughter-in-law live in Boston and her twin daughters, Sarah and Megan, work in the tourism industry as adventure guides.
Matt Zaubi
Pastor of Seniors and Care
Matt grew up near Cleveland, OH. While serving in the Air Force in Germany, he became a follower of Jesus Christ. After returning to the states, he met his wife, Lauren, while attending The Chapel in Akron, OH. They married in 1984. Matt graduated from Moody Bible Institute with a degree in Pastoral Ministries and served as the youth pastor at Trinity EFC in South Bend before becoming Senior Pastor of Living Hope Fellowship in Itasca, IL in 1996. Matt and Lauren have a son Aaron, and twin daughters, Megan and Sarah. He joined the staff of The Orchard in June 2010.
Andrew Lisi
Deacon - Arlington Heights
Andrew is from Santa Fe, NM, Bergenfield, NJ, and Sanford, FL – each place marking moments of God’s work in his life. He graduated from the University of Florida in 2004. In 2008, he moved to Chicago to attend TEDS, where he graduated with his MDiv in 2011. He was a pastor in Seattle until 2014, at which time he left full-time ministry. He is now a financial planner and partner at his firm, The Next Level Planning Group.
Andrew started following Jesus in August of 1994, after six difficult months during which his mom had a near-fatal stroke from a brain aneurysm and he moved around a lot, eventually landing in Florida. A woman at a vacation Bible school faithfully shared the Gospel with him and the Spirit took hold of his life. Andrew met his wife, Stacy, in 2011. They’ve been married for 10 years and have four children, Asher (8), Sofia (6), Emmett (5), and Eva (3).
Andrew and his family started attending The Orchard in 2020 when they moved to Arlington Heights. They became members shortly after. Andrew serves in Awana and Stacy serves in Children’s Ministries. They are also launching a LIFE Group and Andrew has had the opportunity to teach on biblical stewardship to LIFE Group leaders at the Northfield congregation.
Missy Delp
Deacon - Arlington Heights
Missy grew up in Michigan and is very grateful to have been raised in a family that loves Jesus. She was taught from an early age to love and honor God and made the personal decision to follow Jesus as a child. Missy is continually being refined by the Lord and has seen firsthand how faithful, gracious and redemptive He is through both the joys and the heartaches of her life.
Missy attended Taylor University, where she met her husband, Ryan. They have been married for 18 years and have two children, son Riley (14) and daughter Ava (11). Soon after moving to Illinois, they began attending The Orchard in 2010; becoming members in 2012. Missy is currently involved in the Worship Team, LIFE Groups, and serves as the Co-Director of Awana Sparks.
Randy Cox
Deacon - Arlington Heights
Randy's desire is to “be filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”
Randy met his wife in high school and never looked back. He and Sonja have been happily married for 35 years and reside in Barrington, IL. Randy has held leadership roles in the church for more than 30 years. Randy and Sonja started attending The Orchard over six years ago and became members in 2015. Both are active in ministry and LIFE Groups. They have three married children and five grandchildren, all of whom attend either The Orchard Arlington Heights, Itasca or Northfield.
Sue Levon
Deacon - Arlington Heights
Sue first heard the Gospel in college and believed that Jesus loved her, died to pay the penalty for her sins, and rose to give her new life in Him. He became her Savior and Lord by grace alone - through faith alone.
Sue married Mike in 1978 and they moved to Arlington Heights in 1981. The couple visited The Arlington Heights Evangelical Free Church and never left once they heard the Word solidly preached. They became members in 1982, raised their children, and have been involved in many ways as the church has grown. Most of their 40 years at The Orchard have been spent in LIFE Groups.
Sue began serving as a Bible Study group leader and in the nursery, moving up with her children through Sunday School and Awana until she fell in love with teaching 5th and 6th graders, where she taught for many years. Sue has served with Women’s Ministries, The Orchard Network, and on the Nominating Committee. She has led Precept Bible Studies for 19 years. "Serving isn’t always easy, but there is great joy in serving for Jesus, with His people. He always gives what we need, in order to do what He calls us to!"
Arthur Kok
Deacon - Barrington
Arthur grew up in Illinois and has lived in Washington DC, Beijing, and Singapore. He attended Wheaton College and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He has worked for The Orchard Network and Open the Bible. He is currently a stay-at-home Dad. He recognized his sin and trusted Christ for salvation at an early age. Arthur is married to Jo and has two children: Mya and Elliot. They have attended The Orchard for 10 years, being part of The Arlington Heights and Barrington congregations. Currently, Arthur co-leads a LIFE Group and helps facilitate GriefShare at Barrington.
Cris Crook
Deacon - Barrington
Cris grew up in Schaumburg and the surrounding suburbs attending Schaumburg Christian school. She got her degree in Math Education and Masters in Special Education in South Carolina. Currently, she teaches both Math and Special Education at Rolling Meadows High school. Cris understood she was sinner and needed a savior at the young age of 4. She reaffirmed her commitment to serving Christ by being baptized at the age of 9. Cris married Al Crook in 2014, gaining a husband and 2 stepchildren. She is proud to be called CiCi by her 2 grandchildren that bring great joy and endless energy.
Cris began attending The Orchard in December of 2011, quickly plugging in to serving Children’s Ministries as a 1:1 aid for children with special needs. She also helps lead childcare for our monthly SNaP'N ministry to parents of children with special needs. She is most excited to utilize the new Sensory Room for children with sensory needs.
Ginette Leinbach
Deacon - Barrington
Ginette was born and raised in a Christian home in Portau-Prince, Haiti. At age 7, after hearing a message from a visiting missionary at her church, she became aware of her sinfulness, repented, and received Christ as her personal Savior. She studied Nursing at Goshen College in Indiana, where she met her husband Dave.
Ginette was married in 1973, baptized in 1975, and served with her husband as missionaries in Tanzania, East Africa for four years as a nursing instructor at the Mission Hospital Nursing School. Ginette and Dave began attending The Orchard in 2000 and became members in 2002. She is exceedingly grateful for the teaching of the Word, and the training she has received and continues to receive at The Orchard. She participated in Ambassadors, Billy Graham Telephone Ministry, and Leverage.
Marshall Hong
Deacon - Barrington
Marshall grew up in Wheeling, Illinois. Although he attended church and Sunday School while growing up, it was during his pre-marital counseling at The Orchard that Marshall acknowledged and accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Marshall and his wife Caroline were married in 2004, and in 2005 they were both baptized on the same day. They had both previously served in the music ministry at The Orchard and now they serve together on the Worship Team at The Orchard Barrington.
Marshall and Caroline have been attending The Orchard Barrington since 2018. Marshall became a member of The Orchard in 2020. He appreciates The Orchard’s solid Bible teaching and commitment to staying faithful to the Word. Marshall works as an attorney, and his interests include military history, writing and recording music, and Christian apologetics.
Michael Titre
Deacon - Barrington
Mike has been a native of Arlington Heights most of his life. He attended college in the field of architectural construction and is now retired after 26 years with ComEd. Mike came to Christ in 1980 after a young woman named Robin shared the Good News of Jesus Christ with him, and who shortly after, became his wife. Mike and Robin have been married for over 40 years and have a son, Luke (and Lisa) with identical twin grandsons. He also has a daughter, Allison, who attends The Orchard Barrington.
Mike and Robin started attending The Orchard in December of 2018 and became members in November 2019. Mike has been blessed to serve at The Orchard as an Usher and Trustee over the past year. Mike also currently serves as a Men’s LIFE Group Coach. Being a part of a Men’s LIFE Group has been an important part of his growth in Christ at The Orchard.
Sandy Carter
Deacon - Barrington
Sandy was born in Chicago, then moved to Hillside, IL until she graduated high school. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Math and Computer Science from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, and two years later married Garry Carter. She worked as a systems analyst before becoming a stay-at-home mother of four children. Twenty years later she returned to full-time work and retired in 2015 from her job as a product manager at a software company. Today she enjoys freelance writing, connecting with extended family, friends, and fellow believers through ministry at The Orchard. She committed her life fully to the Lord Jesus Christ in her freshman year at U of I, after hearing an evangelist share a clear presentation of the Gospel.
Sandy and Garry moved to Barrington, IL in October 2015 and began attending The Orchard. They became members of the Barrington congregation in 2016 and enjoy serving on the Welcome Team and leading a couples' LIFE Group. Sandy also leads a Women’s LIFE Group and is a LIFE Group coach. She serves on the prayer team for Open the Bible and has written articles for their website.
Alfredo Alonso
Deacon - Itasca
Alfredo was born in Elk Grove Village, raised in Wood Dale and bought a home in Itasca a few months before he got married. He received his degree from TMA and is currently working on an advanced degree at WGU. Alfredo works as a Plant Manager for Dental Technologies in Lincolnwood, IL. His days consist of leading a manufacturing facility by day and loving and caring for his beautiful wife our two-year-old son. Alfredo’s brother, Daniel and his wife also attend The Orchard. In July of 1997 Alfredo realized his need for a Savior and put his trust in Christ at a revival meeting at his childhood church. His Pastor, Pablo Rodriguez, opened the scriptures and presented the Gospel to him. He was baptized a few months after that. The Alonso’s have attended The Orchard since October 2018 and became members in the spring of 2019. Alfredo has served as LIFE Group leader and currently serves as a greeter, scripture reader and preschool teacher in Orchard Kids.
Clayton Cox
Deacon - Itasca
Clayton grew up in a Christian home in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago. He has known Christ from a young age and was regularly taught God’s Word throughout his childhood. He experienced significant growth in his faith while at Marquette University, where he learned more about his Salvation by God’s grace alone.
Clayton and his wife, Kari grew up together, dated throughout high school and college, and got married in 2017. Once married, they started attending The Orchard Itasca and quickly became members. Clayton has been a LIFE Group Leader for the last three years, served as the Welcome Team Leader, and with Awana as a Group Leader. Kari has also served with Awana as a Group Leader, served on the Welcome Team, and now serves in the nursery. Clayton, Kari, and Judah are deeply committed to attending The Orchard Itasca and doing life with their church family, building each other up in love.
Davis Wetherell
Deacon - Itasca
Davis grew up in the Chicago suburbs, and was raised in a church-going, Bible-believing family. Davis and Rebecca met at Taylor University, where they discovered each other’s deep commitment to the Gospel. They both now work at Crossway.
After Davis completed his graduate degree in English from Marquette University, he and Rebecca moved to the Chicago suburbs, started attending The Orchard Itasca, and soon became members. Davis serves with the middle and high school students, the media team and as part of the scripture reading team at Itasca. In addition to both serving in various ministries at The Orchard Itasca, both Davis and Rebecca are always looking for opportunities to shine the light of the Gospel into their local communities. Davis is now pursuing a degree in biblical studies from Reformed Theological Seminary.
Iveta Berzinch
Deacon - Itasca
Iveta was born and grew up in Latvia, which was part of the USSR. She had no knowledge of God until her late teen years. She studied medicine in Latvia and came to the United States in 1990, where she began attending a Latvian church in the Chicagoland area. Subsequently, her work took her to Waycross, Georgia where she practiced pediatrics for 17 years.
After relocating back to the Chicagoland area, Iveta placed her faith in Christ in 2017. Reading and studying God’s Word and listening to sermons became a source of great joy for her. In 2018, Iveta was led to The Orchard Itasca where she was baptized in the Fall; becoming a member in 2019. She is also an active LIFE Group participant.
Iveta has served as a volunteer at special events, in women’s ministries, the nursery and as a table leader at the Wednesday evening LIFE Group. She also serves in Orchard Kids as a teacher in the preschool class and for the Parents’ Night Out monthly ministry. Additionally, she recently became a LIFE Group leader.
Bob Harris
Deacon -Marengo
Bob has a son (Yohanna) and daughter (Elizabeth) in Jos, Nigeria, whom he met in 2008 when traveling with a team from Moody Church to help conduct a Bible camp at orphanages. When God led each of them to Bob to be their dad, he eagerly agreed. Becoming a dad to Yohanna and Elizabeth is one of the greatest blessings God has given Bob. Last May, Bob added his first grandchild to his blessings when son Yohanna and his wife Pamela had a son they named Robert.
Before retiring and moving to Huntley, Bob served for several years as a deacon, Awana Cubbies leader, and Sunday School leader. In October 2019, Bob began attending The Orchard Marengo; becoming a member in Spring 2020. Bob serves as a Cubbies leader and is a member of a Thursday night LIFE Group. Bob is also a member of a men’s Bible study in Sun City and teaches a Bible study at a homeless ministry in Elgin, IL.
Bob’s desire is to contribute to the strengthening, growth, and unity of The Orchard Marengo. He hopes to help the church develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the importance and power of corporate prayer.
Connie von Keudell
Deacon -Marengo
Connie is from Crystal Lake, Illinois and has lived in Hampshire, IL for 40 years. She has been married to Nils for 21 years and they have five children between them: Scott, Kyle, Alex, Nick, and Becky. Connie is also a grandmother of seven beautiful grandchildren.
Connie loves the Lord with all her heart and is humbled by His mercy and grace that is abundant every day.
Connie is a member of a prayer group from The Orchard Marengo that meets Wednesday evenings to pray for our church, its leaders and congregants, our country and the revival of Christ’s ministry, world-wide. On Sundays, Connie serves in hospitality after the church service. When called, Connie also works on the sound board and visual presentation of the services.
Connie a good listener and growing in Christ, through His word and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Her hope is to share the Gospel in the Marengo community and encourage others to draw near to Jesus Christ. Connie desires to be a person who, through the holy example of the Lord Jesus Christ, is pure of heart and sees goodness and purity in others. She recognizes that she is dependent upon Jesus Christ and can do all things through Him.
Greg Domsten
Deacon -Northfield
Greg grew up in Northern Michigan. He put his faith in Jesus Christ at a young age and is grateful for parents who loved Jesus and displayed a love for the Word of God.
Greg moved to the Chicago area in 1997 and met his wife Katy there in 2000. After marrying in 2003, they moved to Arlington Heights in 2005, and have been attending The Orchard ever since. Greg and Katy became members of The Orchard Northfield in 2009. They have three children, son Luke (17), daughter Abigail (15), and son Brendan (11).
Greg has served as a LIFE Group leader, on the Audio/Video team, and played bass on the worship team for the past 7 years. He also had the blessing of serving on The Orchard Church Board from 2016 - 2020. It has been his joy to be a part of the Northfield congregation since it first launched.
Tony Kang
Deacon - Northfield
Tony was born and raised in the Chicagoland area, living as far north as Lincolnshire and south as the Pilsen neighborhood. He graduated from the Moody Bible Institute and Northwestern University. He currently works in business development at a technology company. Though he grew up in a Christian home, it wasn’t until he was 15 years old when he placed his faith in Jesus’ death for the forgiveness of his sins. Tony met his wife Yoonji in 2009 and married in 2012. They have two children, Olivia Joy and Ian Isaac. Tony serves as a LIFE Group leader and Awana leader. He began attending The Orchard in 2016 and has been a part of the Northfield congregation since it launched.
Trina Young
Deacon -Northfield
Trina was born and raised on the West Coast and made her way to the Midwest for college. She moved to Illinois for a career opportunity working as a speech/language pathologist. While attending a local church, she met and married her husband of 18 years, Mike Young. They have two children, Anna and Noah. Trina and her family have attended The Orchard for over fourteen years, ten at Arlington Heights and nearly five at Northfield.
Trina put her faith and trust in Jesus at the age of 28 after she spent several years hearing from a good friend about Christ’s love, sacrifice, and lordship. After submitting her will to Jesus, she found a church to attend and began worshiping. Over the years, God has been so generous as to give her a passion for missions, children, people in need, and the local church.
Currently, Trina serves at The Orchard Northfield as one of the K-2 Sunday school teachers, helping her husband lead a LIFE group, and helping with an annual summer children’s Bible camp in Durres, Albania.
Shirley Drazba
Deacon - Vernon Hills
Shirley grew up in Arlington Heights and studied Electrical Engineering at the University of Illinois where she began dating her husband, Marty.
Marty and Shirley became members at The Orchard Arlington Heights in the early years of their marriage and are currently members at The Orchard Vernon Hills.
Shirley came to faith by God’s grace as a teenager and has a desire for all believers to be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks for a reason for the hope that lies within.
Shirley and Marty are Leverage Graduates and host a LIFE Group in their home. Shirley helps lead the Women’s Ministry at Vernon Hills and has a heart for all women to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. Shirley has retired from her role as Corporate Vice President of IDEX Corporation and now serves on the Board of Directors of Ducommun Corporation.
Shirley and Marty have two grown children, Daniel and Karen, and have their home in Long Grove.
*Elder