Spouse:  Linda 
Family:  Four Adult Daughters

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  6 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Gardening, traveling and anything to with my grandchildren

Brief story of how you came to faith:  I grew up Catholic and walked away from the religion early in life. I first went to a protestant church when I was 29 years. I saw something I had not seen in the Catholic church. That led me on a journey to understand the difference between religion and a relationship with Jesus Christ. I made my first expression of faith in Christ at 32 years old and was baptized with my oldest daughter in 1991.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon?  I feel called to step forward into this role. The experiences God has had me go through in the past, both as an elder and pastor of a non-denominational church, and as a global mission’s leader may be of value to Eternal Church. I believe we are at an inflection point in the ministry of the church. If our Lord and the church believes I can be of some value, I am willing.

Spouse:  Cassie Belov 
Family:  Kate (6), Nathan (4), Caleb (1)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  3 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Traveling, biking, surfing, building things, cooking, gardening

Brief story of how you came to faith:  I came to faith and was also baptized when I was ~13 years old. I had the holy spirit in me since that young age, but the very secular world around me pulled at me and did not make it easy to live a fruitful life. I was in this tension until sophomore year of college when I attended a conference in Atlanta, GA with thousands of other young believers that opened my eyes to Jesus being much more than my personal savior and the holy spirit as my nagging conscience. During that conference I also evaluated the lack of fruit in my walk with Christ, so I repented and committed to walking intentionally with Jesus. The fruits of this continued walk manifest today as engaging in intentional conversation and relationships in the communities God has put me in, raising 3 kiddos up in the word, loving and serving my wife, and engaging in an active relationship with God.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon?  I have a heart for community and for this church and I desire for the community of God to flourish together. I have been given gifts to build up community through physical and relational means.

Spouse:  Scott 
Family:  Chann Carroll (Adult), Chris Carroll (Adult), Jessi Kuykendall (Adult)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  2 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Traveling, Camping, Hiking, Working in the Yard, Reading, Riding the Motorcycle

Brief story of how you came to faith:  After completing the confirmation class as a third grader at St. John’s Methodist Church in Rock Hill I received Christ and was sprinkled in a private ceremony on a Sunday morning. It was not until later years when Scott and I were dating in high school that my spiritual growth and understanding made a difference in my life. The excitement in the teaching and sharing at First Baptist Church was refreshing. I was baptized there and became a member before we married. So many people there had such impact on our lives and encouraged us as we teamed together as we followed Jesus in His calling on our life. It has been an adventure and lesson in trusting him. And the adventure continues.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon? I’m already serving at Eternal and if it’s His desire for me to serve as deaconess, then I will. Regardless, I am here to serve.

Spouse:  Cindy 
Family:  Chann Carroll (Adult), Chris Carroll (Adult), Jessi Kuykendall (Adult)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  2 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Traveling, Camping, Hiking, Music, Motorcycles

Brief story of how you came to faith:  I became a “God-Fearer” When I was six years old during fall revival at First Baptist Church in Rock Hill. I feel I understood my salvation experience as best a six-year-old could. As a twelve-year-old, I felt called to ministry and missions after reading and studying “Through Gates of Splendor” by Elizabeth Elliot. I was challenged by young men willingly sacrificing themselves for the sake of the Gospel and by the forgiveness and grace offer by the wives to the killers. As a high school senior, I was discipled by Bob Porterfield, the Campus Minister at Winthrop College and began a deep and abiding love of Jesus.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon? I simply want to be available to serve God in whatever capacity He chooses. My heart’s desire is to serve Him and bring Him glory.

Spouse:  Troy
Family:  Brooke Krantz, Rachel Krantz, Aidan Fleming (all adults)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  2 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Reading, Yoga, SUP (Stand up paddle boarding), Gardening, Walking/Hiking

Brief story of how you came to faith: I grew up in a Christian family going to church each Sunday and often throughout the week.  I never knew a point in my life where I did not know about God or the Bible. I got baptized as a 13 year old.   I have been part of a faith community throughout my entire life and have always found that important for my continued growth and development. Having said that my understanding and faith has definitely deepened over the years, especially in times of trial and difficulty as God has refined me and done his sanctifying work. 

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon? I love seeing people heal and grow through the power of God at work in their lives, as He redeems our lives for His Glory and our good.  I want to be a part of helping the church body become closer to God, more deeply connected with one another and part of the process that helps people flourish, becoming more like Jesus.

Spouse:  Kristy
Family:  Aidan (adult daughter),  Brooke Krantz (adult step daughter) and Rachel Krantz (adult step daughter)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  4 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Reading, Golf, NASCAR, Airplanes

Brief story of how you came to faith:  I came to faith in the fall of 2002 at the age of 32 – Had been wresting with God more intimately for about 6 months – was a loan officer at a major bank, and heard this Dave Ramsey guy on the radio that was teaching finances differently than the bank, and it made sense. Then he ended his radio program with “There is only one way to true peace, and that is with the Prince of Peace Christ Jesus”  I was shocked – why is this radio guy bringing Jesus into this money issue – Over the summer of 2002 I read 2 of Dave’s books, saw him live was exposed to dozens of scriptures, then listened to Dave’s personal testimony and cried out to Jesus as my LORD and Savior – My life hasn’t been the same since. 

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon?  I believe God has blessed us as His followers not just for our own benefit, but so that we might be a blessing to others. His generosity toward us is always meant to flow outward—through our words, actions, and lives—as a testimony of His love. Along with that calling to bless others is the call to follow Him more deeply, wherever He leads.
Lately, I’ve sensed that God is growing my leadership abilities—not for my own advancement, but so I can better serve and support those around me. I see that as part of His ongoing work of sanctification and preparation. One area where I feel especially drawn is within the leadership at Eternal. There are wise and faithful Elders there whose example and counsel I deeply respect, and I believe serving alongside them would be a powerful opportunity to grow in God’s wisdom, to be sharpened spiritually, and to humbly serve the church in whatever ways God sees fit.

Spouse:  Erica
Family:  Eliza (15), Annalise (13)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  7 years

What are your hobbies & interests? I enjoy being outside as much as possible. I enjoy running, hiking, yard work, and throwing a frisbee. 

Brief story of how you came to faith:  I grew up in a family of six that attended a Lutheran church. I remember mom and dad maintaining a high level of expectation that our family would always be at church on a regular and consistent basis. I attended Sunday School and youth group; I was learning that church was about the good acts of attending church regularly, serving others and generally living lives free of sin. I recall learning the stories of the bible but I don’t recall learning about having a personal relationship with Jesus being a paramount matter to my faith. I knew that I was a ‘good person’ and I knew that Jesus died for my sins, but I wasn’t living a life with an intimate relationship with Jesus.
As a college student, I decided to work as a summer camp counselor, serving the Lord faithfully in this summer ministry. This act of service over the summer led me to seek more ways to serve throughout the year on my college campus and that is when the Lord led me to become a Young Life leader in our community with high school students. This ministry opportunity blessed me and allowed me to grow in my faith. Although I was leading ministry for high schoolers, I was also learning about a desire that Jesus has for me - He wants me to have an intimate relationship with him. It was so much more than being a good person or doing good deeds - Jesus loves me so much that He was willing to die for me and as a result, He wants my heart daily. He wants me to die to myself and be more intimate with him.
I have continued to grow in my relationship with Jesus to this day. I have a desire to live my life as a service to Him, not because I strive to be a good person, but out of faith and commitment for what He has done for me.  

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon? The funny thing is, I don’t truly desire to be an elder. What I do desire though is to be faithful to the calling of the Lord. I humbly acknowledge that I am a flawed man in need of grace and it is my hope to lead our church from that place. God has blessed me with certain gifts and I receive His humble call to use those gifts to serve our church in a leadership role.

Spouse:  Olivia
Family:  Sadie (4), Vienna (3), Galilee (6 months)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  2 1/2 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Reading, Exercising, Spending time with family

Brief story of how you came to faith: I came to faith as a young boy, guided by my parents. I was baptized at the age of ten and have been a professing Christian ever since. I was blessed to be raised in a generational Christian family (both grandparents and parents and aunts/uncles) where God was always at the center and my Dad would constantly remind us, as he still does today, to “keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.” This is a brief, but succinct overview of how God orchestrated my life to draw me to Himself and strengthen me to persevere in the faith.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon? 1 Timothy 3:1 reads, “If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task (ESV).” Inherent in the rise to the office of elder is a desire for something noble. We ought to seek that which is good, noble, beautiful, and true. Because Timothy tells us it’s a noble pursuit, we are wise to treat it as such. The juxtaposition of desiring the office while acknowledging my unworthiness creates a dilemma, which is why the affirmation process is critical to the appointment.
Admittedly, I was somewhat hesitant about considering the discernment process, but believed the Lord was calling me to accept. I would add that Eternal church is at an interesting juncture and I see the Lord opening a door for me to potentially be involved in overseeing the future of the church. The Bible teaches us that the Church is Christ’s bride. This fact alone carries much weight as we consider how important it is to care for and shepherd the local church body as representatives of the bride of Christ. Although it is a heavy weight, I believe the Lord has equipped me with giftings to be a leader in the church. I would also add that the fellowship and wisdom I would glean from fellow elders is an anticipated blessing that would come from being a part of the session.
Lastly, I believe it is imperative to set a proper example for my children. I want my children to see their father involved in the church as a leader, not merely an attendee. The church is not just a place we go on Sunday – it is an integral part of our family life and spiritual life that extends to all aspects of who we are. Furthermore, my wife has affirmed the call and encouraged me to pursue the office, which has been a blessing to me.

Spouse:  Emily
Family:  David (15), Rebecca (18), Liam and Jessie (adults)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  17 years

What are your hobbies & interests? hiking, exploring, learning new things

Brief story of how you came to faith: I came to faith through the witness of my parents and the teaching of the Word in our local church. My parents’ obedience to Christ had some pretty radical implications – like moving to other countries to share the hope of Jesus and see churches planted. My own faith has always been formative, but it was in my college years that I began to let the lordship of Christ expand into more and more areas of my life. My wife Emily and I are still growing in our faith and in our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus for us today.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon?  I believe the church is central to God’s redemptive work in the world. Together we are the body of Christ. God uses us in each others’ lives and together we bear more beautiful witness to the power of the gospel. I believe it is a mercy of God to me to be able to serve the church and the world and that God has gifted me for this service.

Spouse:  Scott 
Family:  Ally (adult), Sydney (adult), Jay (14)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  4 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Enjoy reading, travel, walking and entertaining friends and family.

Brief story of how you came to faith:  Was raised in a little Baptist church in Indian Land, SC. My mom ensured my brother and I were there every time the doors opened! I accepted Jesus as my personal savior during Vacation Bible School when I was 7, was Baptized as a public profession of faith a few years later as my parents wanted me to be certain of my decision. I’m as certain now as I was then, and so very thankful for my Jesus and for Gods ready presence throughout my life!

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon?  It’s humbling to even be considered for the role of Deacon at Eternal Church. I’m happy to serve alongside my husband, Scott (currently on the Diaconate) without the title. My spiritual gift of administration keeps me off the sidelines, so if I’m needed for this role, I’m happy to help!

Spouse:  Cori
Family:  Ryan, Nicole, Devon, and Kyle (all adults) and 4 grandchildren

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  4 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Cori and I live on a 20-acre farm just outside of York, where we raise sheep, cows, chickens—and more dogs than any one family probably should.

Brief story of how you came to faith: I’ve always been spiritually inclined. Growing up Catholic, I took my faith seriously serving as an altar boy and even considering the priesthood. In my teens, my family left the Catholic Church and joined the Worldwide Church of God (WCG), a legalistic, works-based group focused on Old Testament laws, like Sabbath-keeping, dietary rules, and multiple tithes.
In college, I started to examine and own my faith. I came to believe that Jesus died for my sins, and that salvation was by grace, and I was baptized. But even then, I felt I had to earn it—working hard, keeping the laws, and doing my part. For years, I struggled under the weight of trying to measure up: observing the Sabbath, navigating complicated tithing rules, even avoiding doctors due to misplaced faith. It became exhausting, and over time, it felt more like a burden than joy.
A turning point came when our son Ryan nearly died from a burst appendix. During that crisis, I surrendered to Jesus in a way I never had before—not to bargain, but to truly trust Him, no matter the outcome. That moment reshaped my faith.
A few years later, WCG experienced a dramatic transformation. The focus shifted from law-keeping to grace, from religion to relationship. There was a dramatic realization Christ had fulfilled the need to keep the Sabbath, holidays, tithes, and all the other laws. His life, death, resurrection, grace, and a personal relationship with Him took center stage. Cori and I embraced this change with newfound passion.
Looking back, my journey has had many twists and turns. Even when my theology was screwed up, Jesus remained faithful. Through the Holy Spirit, God called me into a relationship with Him. I’ve come to realize that I cannot rely on my own efforts or righteousness, and nothing I do can meet God’s standards.
The more I grow, the more I see how desperately sinful my heart is. But I have a Savior, and I rest in faith that Jesus paid it all. I am a child of God, and I praise the God who saves.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon? I want to submit to God’s call and if this is where he is leading, I want to follow as best I can.

Spouse:  Jamie
Family:  Andrew (11), Joy (7)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  6 years

What are your hobbies & interests? I enjoy fishing, hiking, most sports and chess. I also enjoy a good cup of coffee and good conversation. My wife and I also love to host people at our home.

Brief story of how you came to faith:  I was raised in the church and accepted Christ into my heart in Middle School, but it wasn’t until college when the Lord really took a hold of my heart and met me during a weekend conference at a church I was attending. The next week after the conference, I specifically remember desiring a deeper relationship with God and for others to have a relationship with Jesus as well.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon? I desire for the Lord to be glorified at Eternal Church and I desire to be a part of a session of elders who humbly seek God for wisdom and direction at Eternal Church. I believe that God has uniquely gifted me and given me a desire to be a shepherd and walk alongside people. I desire to use my gifts (and weaknesses) for his glory.

Spouse:  Abigail
Family:  Lincoln (13), Alexis (11), and Raelynn (8)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  5 years

What are your hobbies & interests? I’m most joyful with my family whether it’s exploring a new place, hiking, camping, rebuilding an engine, riding dirt bikes, or dating my wife. By myself, I like to build/create things, study some aspect of the Bible, play guitar (to myself), or hunt/fish.

Brief story of how you came to faith:  I was raised in a Christian home and attended a Christian school through middle school. My parents believed it was their primary responsibility to teach me about the good news of salvation, and for that I am grateful and blessed. It was in my early years (11) that I came to the understanding I am a sinner in need of Jesus’ saving grace – I accepted Jesus into my heart and was baptized. As I grew older, and particularly in my college years, I strayed from my relationship with Christ – I lived for myself and my own desires. Yes, I could have been characterized as a ‘good person’, but I realize now I during that phase of life, I was keeping Jesus at arm’s length, so I didn’t have to die to my own desires. After a decade or so of living far from God, my heart was empty and I felt shame. God began calling me to Himself. For a few years, I tried to “clean myself up” from the mess I’d made in some areas of my life so that I could get “right” for God to accept me. Through that process God showed me salvation is all about His works, His love, His grace, not anything I do. That time was a beautiful experience of His love for me. I humbled myself of my foolish pride and recommitted my life to Christ. I have been walking with Him ever since.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon?  I became an elder in January 2024 out of a desire to serve God’s Church by helping shepherd the people of Eternal Church. It has been a challenging year for our Church – both for the congregation and leadership. I am not perfect, but my heart’s desire is to continue to exemplify Christlike leadership as best a broken human can. I will continue to ask God for wisdom and guidance to do His will in all things and to show the love of Christ through serving my brothers and sisters at Eternal if they would have me do so. To God be the Glory.

Spouse:  Kimberly
Family:  Josh (18), Rachel (16), Rebekah (13)

How long have you been a member of Eternal Church?  10 years

What are your hobbies & interests? Running, Cooking, Coffee, Board & Card Games, Soccer

Brief story of how you came to faith: I grew up in a Christian home with parents who have genuine faith. Our family was very involved in church and I was heavily involved in youth group growing up. I was confirmed in the Methodist church at 13, however in retrospect I can say that I knew the right things to say but was not in a relationship with Jesus. I was rebellious in high school and this only increased in college when I was away from home. After college the Lord decided to strip away my job and my roommates all in a very short period of time. I hit what is probably the lowest point in my life, prayed to God in earnest for the first time in my life and He gave me a glimpse of mercy that I could not overlook. He then introduced me to a young lady who was a missionary that had just returned from Romania and she proceeded to tell me the Truth about who Jesus is and why my previous views of moral relativism were far short of God’s plan for my salvation. I would say this is where I really met Jesus. These discussions and subsequent discipleship are what led me to the beginnings of the relationship I have with Jesus today.

Why do you desire to be an elder or a deacon?  I love the people of our Church and I want to serve in a way that allows me to care for them. Over the past two years I’ve been able to experience shepherding through being a facilitator with my wife through 3 seasons of re|engage, which has allowed me to experience care for the hurting of both the body of Eternal and the broader community. I know there is still healing to be done from the past year in our church, and my hope is to be part of that healing process so that we can be unified as a church and present the Gospel to our community.