Elders
John Gajdica
Elder
John Gajdica
Elder
My wife, Suzanne, and I have attended Northwest since 2010. We have two adult children, Brittany and Brooke, and one grandchild. My involvement at Northwest includes staff oversight, serving on the Outreach committee, and participating every year in the Guatemala mission trip.
Loran Liu
Elder
Loran Liu
Elder
My wife, Jenny, and I have attended Northwest since 1995. We have three grown children who we raised at Northwest – Emma Kate, Sam and Clara. My involvement at Northwest includes small group leadership, re|engage, Outreach committee, and Children’s ministry.
Lee Riffe
Elder
Lee Riffe
Elder
My wife, Susan, and I have attended Northwest since 1992. We have twin children, Garrett and Allison. My involvement at Northwest includes serving on the Outreach committee, leading the Guatemala mission trip, small group leadership, and Children’s ministry.
Bob Talkington
Elder
Bob Talkington
Elder
My wife, Bob Ann, and I have attended Northwest since the early 1970s. We have two grown daughters who were raised at Northwest, and five grandchildren. My involvement at Northwest includes marriage ministry, small group leadership, men's discipleship, and student ministry.
Neil Tomba
Senior Pastor
Neil Tomba
Senior Pastor
Email: ntomba@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7700
Have you heard the “turtle on the fence post” saying? It goes like this: if you’re walking along a fence and spot a turtle sitting atop a fencepost, you know it didn’t get there by itself. In 1996, after graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary, God placed me on the staff of Northwest Bible Church as Minister to Singles. In February 2001, He put me in the position of Senior Pastor. I am grateful to serve and walk alongside a church body and staff where we are desperately dependent on Him.
I had a train wreck with the grace of Jesus when I was an Electrical Engineering student at Louisiana State University (home of the Fighting Tigers). During that time, I was surrounded by followers of Jesus who were convinced that life, love, and service to others flowed out of their communion with Jesus. My wife was one of those people I saw running hard after Jesus. I couldn’t resist. We married in 1983 and have three adult daughters, one son-in-law, and three grandchildren.
As a desperately dependent follower of Jesus, my passion is to invite others into the unexpected joy of life with Him. My favorite place to hang out with others as we hang out with Jesus is outdoors in God’s creation. I like biking, hiking, camping, taking pictures, and eating a good steak.
Robin Wantland
Elder
Robin Wantland
Elder
My wife, Diane, and I have attended Northwest since 1980. We have four children and eight grandchildren. My involvement at Northwest includes men's ministry, re|engage, small group leadership, finance committee, and the deacon program.
Adult Ministries
Laura Rose Brillon
Connecting Minister
Laura Rose Brillon
Connecting Minister
Email: lbrillon@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7755
Alanna Brosey
Group Life Administrative Assistant
Alanna Brosey
Group Life Administrative Assistant
Email: abrosey@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7713
I am so excited to serve on the Northwest staff as the Group Life Administrative Assistant. I grew up in Prosper and after graduating from Texas A&M, moved to Houston where I worked in the commercial furniture industry. During my first few years in Houston, God began to move in me and I started seeking Him out.
Even though I grew up believing in God, I found Jesus during a mission trip to Nicaragua. This was the first time I really accepted and understood the sacrificial love Jesus has for me. Shortly after, the Lord started nudging me and I began a new journey working for a church where I could serve the body of Christ every day. I am constantly being reminded that God’s plans are bigger and better than my own and all I have to do is follow Him.
In my free time I am taking classes at Asbury Theological seminary, like to take my dog on walks, paint, play Pokemon, and spend time with family and friends.
Angela Cirocco
Group Life & Women's Minister
Angela Cirocco
Group Life & Women's Minister
Email: acirocco@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7753
It is a dream come true for me to serve as the Group Life and Women's Minister here at Northwest Bible Church. I was born and raised in Buffalo, NY, where I worked as a Registered Nurse in various capacities for many years. My longest and favorite stint was in Labor and Delivery. As I served my church as a volunteer in Women’s Ministry, I felt God’s call to pursue further Biblical education. I moved to Dallas in 2016 to attend Dallas Theological Seminary and began attending Northwest shortly thereafter.
I was raised in a Christian home and accepted Christ as my Savior at 6 years old. As I grew physically, so did my faith. I loved Jesus and sought to share the love he had shown me to my family, friends, coworkers, and patients. At church I served in children’s, youth, and women’s ministry. But at thirty years old, I hit a crossroads in my faith. My life looked nothing like I planned, my health failed, and some Christians hurt me deeply. I felt like God turned his back on me. Yet as I stewed in my anger, Jesus gently showed me the truth of who he is: Good, Loving, Gracious, and Merciful. My lament gave way to awe and deep love for the God of Grace. He used this time to show me my desperate need for his grace and strength every single day.
I love to eat and travel, in that order. Mountains, oceans, lakes, cities, missions trips—I love exploring all God made. But a good travel experience better involve excellent food! God knew I needed Tex-Mex in my life when he moved me to Texas, and I can eat it for every meal. I like discovering new restaurants in Dallas, preferably over belly-laughs and deep conversation with good friends.
Aubrie Norman
Group Life Coordinator
Aubrie Norman
Group Life Coordinator
Email: anorman@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7751
I am beyond excited to be on staff at Northwest as Group Life Coordinator! I have a bachelor’s degree in Ministry Leadership from Dallas Christian College and a master’s degree in Women’s Ministry Leadership from DTS. My prayer is that God will use me in the lives of other women by encouraging them to not dwell on the brokenness in their lives but to find hope in God who has not forgotten about them or left them but is madly in love with them.
I came to know the Lord at the age of 9 after my parent’s divorce. I desperately needed the love of my Heavenly Father and committed my life and my heart’s desires to Him. It wasn’t until the age of 20 that I really began to grow in my faith, found a new love for His Word and truly began becoming the woman He created me to be. Through some disappointments, I learned what it means for God to be enough and for Him to meet all my needs. God really does use what others mean for evil and use it for our good and His glory! (Genesis 50:20)
Nothing makes me happier than being a wife to my husband, Thomas and the mother to our two children, Tomlin & Kellie Bob. Some of my favorite things are traveling, the beach, listening to music, reading, running and sharing a big bowl of ice cream with my kids! My go to verse is Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” I have come to know that there is no greater peace then choosing to trust God with your life and to find unexpected joy in a life committed to following Him.
David Rogers
Care Minister
David Rogers
Care Minister
Email: drogers@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7701
It is a great blessing to serve our church as the Care Minister. As our church embraces brokenness, I seek to lead our care teams in responding to the needs that often accompany it. I have attended Northwest for several years and joined the staff in 2012. After graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary and developing a counseling practice, the Care ministry is a wonderful place to put my skills and gifts to work for the Kingdom.
I was raised in a Christian home and grew up in church in Brownwood, Texas. I accepted Christ as a teenager but kept God at arm’s length for many years. After college at Baylor, I returned home to run the family business. I began serving at a church there, and enjoyed almost 20 years of slow but steady spiritual growth before moving to Dallas. At Northwest, my spiritual life spiked as my family and I became involved in a small group for the first time. Some of the greatest blessings in my life are a direct result of relationships developed there and the way God revealed Himself in the midst of life with those people.
I may be known best for my accent, bringing a little bit of the country to the big city. I love watching movies and playing games with my wife and son. I enjoy backpacking - my son and I are still working on Mom. When I’m not reading something, I’m writing something. A passage that has greatly influenced my ministry is Gen. 2:18, the first crisis in scripture.
Dane Salter
Young Adults and Men's Minister
Dane Salter
Young Adults and Men's Minister
Email: dsalter@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7771
I became a part of the Northwest ministry family in July of 2019. My wife and I moved from Louisiana to Dallas to attend Dallas Theological Seminary, however, it was the love and community of Northwest that made Dallas feel like home. In 2018 I took part in Northwest’s Residency Program and now, it is my joy to serve in Northwest’s mission to invite people into the unexpected joy of desperate dependence on Jesus as the Young Adults and Men's Minister.
Doing the right thing always seemed to come naturally to me. Growing up in a Christian home, I prided myself on being the “good kid” that other parents used as an example. It wasn’t until my junior year in high school that God began to reveal how my outward behavior was merely a smokescreen to cover up a desperate longing for something more, something that could only be found in a relationship with Him. When I went to college, I set off on an adventure to understand the depths of God’s love, the beauty of His grace, and the life-altering fulfillment found only in knowing Him. It is my joy to be a traveling companion for others on their own journeys to know the one true Hero of all stories. My great hope is to embolden the faith of others as we travel down the road of life together.
In my free time I’ll either be sweating in the gym or relaxing with my wife, Kacy, watching Neflix. I love reading, watching, or listening to grand stories and enjoy good conversation over great food. If you need someone to go to lunch with, I’m your guy.
Family Life
Cara Alexander
Assistant Preschool Director
Cara Alexander
Assistant Preschool Director
Email: calexander@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7734
I love Northwest Bible Church, especially everything Early Childhood/Preschool! I first started working for Northwest Preschool the week before Thanksgiving of 2018, and I thought I was just filling in for a month, but here I am a few years later as Assistant Preschool Director. I love children and families and strongly believe in Christian preschool and the lifelong impact it has.
I've been married for over 25 years and we have a son, Noah who is interested in engineering, and a daughter, Lauren who i studying art. It is my pleasure being a wife and mother and I enjoy almost everything about it! One of my favorite verses is Isaiah 61:7 “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.” Every time I read it, my heart fills with joy and my eyes with tears. I have overcome many obstacles and had a rough childhood, and God has absolutely given me so much more than I ever prayed for.
I am a first-generation high school graduate and much of my education has been on the job, though I did complete my Associates degree at Dallas Community College and I'm currently working on my bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies through Houston Baptist University. I am excited about the future and know for sure that where I am is where God has me, and I am blessed to be here.
David Huey
Family Life Minister
David Huey
Family Life Minister
Email: dhuey@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7732
I joined the Northwest staff in October of 2020 as the Family Life Minister. After serving as a missionary and on staff at three churches since 2001, I am happy to be a part of what God is doing here in the Northwest family! Growing up in Memphis, I did not grow up in a home where Jesus was present. After finding myself in and out of trouble, God took control of my life and allowed me to meet an intentional youth pastor and students who invested in me. At 15 years old, God radically changed my life as I surrendered my life to Him and began to understand His grace and love! I was blessed enough to be a part of leading my mom to the Lord and helping my dad commit to a church once again! At 17, I knew God was calling me to serve Him for the rest of my life vocationally. My story has been and continues to be a story of grace – I have never deserved what God has done in my life and how He continues to use me, yet time after time, I find myself being blessed to be a part of His plan! A passage that has always resonated with me is John 3:30 – He (Jesus) must increase, but I must decrease. My hope is that people see Jesus in me more today than yesterday! When we have free time my wife Amy, and our two kids, Eli and Emma love camping, being outdoors, and eating tacos. I love coaching my kid’s sports teams, playing guitar, and being disappointed by Tennessee Vols Football.
Mallory Kea
Family Life Administrative Assistant
Mallory Kea
Family Life Administrative Assistant
Email: mkea@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7733
I am so excited to be the Family Life Administrative Assistant! I was born and raised in Tyler and moved to the Dallas area in 2018 to attend Dallas Baptist University, where God had so graciously turned my life upside down! I grew up going to church with my family and had always loved to serve and be a part of everything that I could at my home church. In 2020, I fully dedicated my life to Christ after years of being an outward Christian and doing the right things, but not being an inward Christ-follower. Since then, God has shown me how much I need to and get to depend on Him every single day. My favorite verse in the bible is found in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 and reads, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses... For when I am weak, then I am strong." This verse is such a great reminder of who God is and how he is our ultimate peace and satisfaction in life. I love to spend my free time, painting, cooking, reading, and spending time with the people I love!
Lida Lindley
Early Childhood Minister
Lida Lindley
Early Childhood Minister
Email: llindley@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7736
I am pleased to serve as the Early Childhood Minister since September 2020. Following Jesus Christ has led me on a life-long journey of loving God and loving others. After working in the banking industry as an accounting manager, I became a stay-at-home mom to raise my two sons. During that time, I served in children’s ministry where I learned to tell Bible stories. After becoming an empty nester, I began my studies at Dallas Theological Seminary where I graduated in 2012 with a Master of Arts degree in Christian Education.
My faith journey began in 1981 with a simple prayer asking God to reveal Himself to me. Shortly after this prayer, the Holy Spirit moved my sister to share the Gospel with me and to invite me to attend her church. A year later, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior. Over time, a growing understanding of Christ’s sacrificial love for me as demonstrated in His death and resurrection has developed into my passion to serve families.
Spending time with my family is a priority in my life. I enjoy learning, teaching, crafting Bible studies, discussing theology, walking my golden retriever, praying for others, and being a friend. The Scripture that gives me confidence in my life and ministry is Philippians 1:6, “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Sarah Makasini
Girls Ministry & Discipleship Director
Sarah Makasini
Girls Ministry & Discipleship Director
Email: smakasini@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7731
I am excited to be the Girls Ministry & Discipleship Director at Northwest. I am a newlywed, love dogs, adventures, tacos, and spending time with my people. I was born and raised in Grapevine, but I have been all over the US and to four different countries on mission trips and various adventures. My husband is Tongan (pacific islander) and moved here in 2015 from the islands. He plays rugby and I played soccer my entire life. I grew up in church, but really began understanding and taking my salvation seriously going into seventh grade. Through a series of difficult circumstances in my home in my middle school years, God really showed me He meant it when He said, “the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6). This is something I am now passionate about passing on to others who are hurting or navigating tough times, especially today’s youth.
Patricia Martell
Weekday Preschool Director
Patricia Martell
Weekday Preschool Director
Email: pmartell@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7737
I am so thrilled to be serving as the Preschool Director here at Northwest. I joined the staff in November of 2014, after serving as the Director of the Hyde Park Preschool in Austin for eight years, and Director of Windsor Park Preschool in DeSoto for 3 years. I began serving in Weekday Ministry when my oldest son was a preschooler.
I was fortunate to grow up in a Christian home and attend a Christian school. I trusted Jesus as my savior as a child but continue to grow in my faith each day. I have a passion for Weekday Ministry and serving families through this ministry. I also love empowering the teachers to serve the Lord to the best of their abilities!
I enjoy spending time with my husband Steve, and our three boys. I love sewing, crafting and fixing things. I love cheering on my Fightin’ Texas Aggies in football and watching television and movies with my family. My life verse is Jeremiah 29:11, as I know that God gives us a hope and future!
Jake Murphy
High School Minister
Jake Murphy
High School Minister
Email: jmurphy@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7741
I became the High School Minister in July 2021 and am so excited to be here! High School was an incredibly influential time in my life, as it is for many. The summer before going into high school I got saved at youth camp and my life forever changed. I heard the truths of Psalms 139 and realized how much God knew and loved me, despite my sin.
My youth group and youth pastor were an incredible foundation to help encourage, direct, and mold my faith. This is why I am so passionate and excited about student ministry and am thrilled about the incredible opportunity here at Northwest to serve students.
While I was in high school, I met my now wife, Murphy. Yes, that’s right, her name is Murphy Murphy. We were high school sweethearts, in youth group together, went to college together, and got married after I graduated college. Murphy is just as passionate about student ministry as I am. We make a great team and are pumped about sharing Jesus with a generation that desperately needs Him.
In our free time, we love spending time with friends and family, watching sports, traveling the world, and making memories! I am so excited about what God is doing here at Northwest in student ministry. I truly believe this generation could bring about a revival-type impact to our culture and our city. Let’s pray for that!
Parker Spaniel
Middle School Director
Parker Spaniel
Middle School Director
Email: pspaniel@northwestbible.org
I am so blessed to serve at Northwest as the Middle School Director. I am passionate about students and helping teach, equip, and disciple them to be all that God called has called them to be. I'm from Georgetown, Texas, and moved to Dallas to attend Dallas Baptist University where I graduated with a degree in Biblical Studies. My life before Christ was marked by searching for satisfaction. Eventually, I learned that the things of this world will never satisfy. I came to know the love of Christ through Young Life the summer after graduating high school. I had an amazing Young Life leader who introduced me to the real person of Jesus and the love He has for me despite my sin and brokenness, helping me understand that the search for satisfaction can only be fulfilled in Jesus. I met my wife, Taylor, through Young Life and we were married in January 2022. I love to be outdoors and cheer on all of my Dallas sports teams!
Outreach
Julia Bigelow
Outreach Administrative Assistant
Julia Bigelow
Outreach Administrative Assistant
Email: jbigelow@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7710
I am pleased to serve at Northwest as the Outreach Administrative Assistant. I joined the staff in July 2017 and have been working in ministry support for over a decade. I enjoy working behind the scenes and preparing the details so that loving God and loving others can happen more easily for everyone. My favorite part of ministry is taking the vision and figuring out how to make it happen.
My relationship with Jesus began when I was 16 and publicly declared my commitment to Christ through baptism at 23. It’s amazing to look through the years at how God has and continues to draw me to Himself using every aspect of my life- nothing has been wasted!
I am married to my husband Josh and stay active keeping up with three energetic children and a menagerie of pets at home. Each day, I experience a new facet of the unexpected joy of desperate dependence on Jesus, and wouldn’t trade it for anything!
Jean Congera
Refugee Ministry Leader
Jean Congera
Refugee Ministry Leader
Email: jcongera@northwestbible.org
Phone: 214-396-6516
I’m honored to serve as a Refugee Ministry Leader here at Northwest Bible Church. In January 2007, I joined Northwest Bible Church after being resettled in USA from a life of Refugee camps. After being rescued by the Lord from many wars, I was very hungry to find a church where I could go and say thanks to God for His rescue. After getting connected with Northwest Bible church, I became the secretary of the African Refugees Fellowship which later became the African Missionary Fellowship. I joined the Northwest staff in 2012 as an Event Specialist, but I had a burning desire to help refugees more. Finally, on August 18, 2014, God gave me more time to save refugees, who are where I was many years ago. Prior to my current position, I was privileged to serve refugees when I was working at the International Rescue Committee in Dallas.
Although God rescued me from wars, I did not know what it meant to be a Christian. In 2005 God used His voice in miraculous way and I started believing in Him. After getting saved, I had a problem of thinking that I had to work hard to be accepted by God, but later I came to understand that my righteousness is through Jesus Christ alone, by God’s grace, and I surrendered everything to Him. Since then I am desperately depending on Jesus for everything, because apart from Jesus, I can do nothing.
I am married with two children, and I am blessed to have a large extended family living here in Dallas. My main dream is to share the message of grace to all I can. I feel like God has created me to preach the gospel to all. I am still serving in the African Missionary Fellowship as one of several leaders, and in my spare time I like to visit my relatives and friends. My favorite bible verse is Ephesians 2: 8-9 "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."
Jeff Cross
Refugee Ministry Director
Jeff Cross
Refugee Ministry Director
Email: jcross@northwestbible.org
Phone: 214-396-6512
I joined the team at Northwest Bible in August 2019 and am excited to serve as Interim Refugee Ministry Director at Northwest Community Center. In late 2007, I became friends with a refugee family from Togo. I continue to value my times of fellowship with them, from meals to school graduations. It is now my privilege to serve alongside a team of ministry leaders, volunteers and community partners to assist refugee families in their transition to a new life in Dallas.
After working more than twenty years in the corporate sector, I spent nine years in the nonprofit sector -- most recently serving as Director of Operations at an organization which helps adults achieve educational goals and attain financial stability.
I was raised in church, yet long held a belief that good works were necessary to enter heaven. I attended college at University of Texas-Arlington, where I enrolled in a Christian Evidences course my Freshman year. It was through that study that I gained an understanding of who Jesus is and accepted Him as my Lord and Savior. My enrollment in Bible Study Fellowship was instrumental in a growing relationship with God. After a few years I began serving as a BSF small group leader, and I was baptized at a Summer retreat. I began attending Northwest Bible Church, was plugged into an encouraging men’s small group, and became a member of the church. I have served on the Northwest Cares Committee, assisting families in our church body through short term financial challenges.
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, following the “Big Four” professional sports teams in Dallas and attending UT-Arlington basketball games. Volunteer service is important to me, whether helping out at a local food pantry or facilitating a financial literacy course. I have a pitbull pup and enjoy walking her around our neighborhood on the westside of downtown Dallas. Micah 6:8 encourages me to pursue justice, extend kindness and to be humble as I serve our city.
Betsy Cruz
Refugee Ministry Leader
Betsy Cruz
Refugee Ministry Leader
Email: bcruz@northwestbible.org
Phone: 214-396-6514
I count it a privilege to serve as a Refugee Ministry Leader at the Northwest Community Center. It excites me to see how God has given us the opportunity to be a light to so many nations right here in Dallas. Before beginning my service at the Community Center in July 2020, I served as a missionary in Turkey for 18 years and lived in Central America 7 years. After my family returned from the mission field, I asked God to open a door so I could continue serving internationals, and I was thrilled when He opened the door at Northwest. I grew up believing in God but carried an important question in my mind: “What’s the big deal about Jesus?” My freshman year at the University of Texas, some girls in my dorm answered my question when they shared 1 John 4:10 with me: “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” When I understood what Jesus had done for me on the cross, I committed my life to Him, and it has been my joy to follow Him ever since. My husband Jose and I have two young adult children who were born in El Salvador and grew up in Turkey. My greatest passion is the Word of God, and in my free time, I write content for my website and freelance articles to encourage women to get more of God’s Word in so they can live their faith out. I also enjoy cooking, spending time outdoors with my white Malti-poo, and drinking chai with friends.
Justin Gaspar
Outreach Minister
Justin Gaspar
Outreach Minister
Email: jgaspar@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7722
As Outreach Minister, I'm honored to lead staff and volunteers who impact the world with the hope of the Gospel. Northwest's outreach makes a real difference in real lives through the Northwest Community Center, our sports and fitness ministry, local community partnerships, and alongside global missionaries.
I became a follower of Jesus at an early age and my faith continued to grow at home. After college, I spent a year doing mission work in Spain and Russia, which ignited my passion for ministry. This led to partnering with parachurch organizations, marketplace ministry, serving in churches in Minnesota, and earning my masters in theology. God called our family to Northwest, which led us on a cross-country, mid-pandemic move to Dallas in December 2020. It's a joy to see people fall in love with Jesus and to help believers live out their call to love others well.
I enjoy spending time with my wife, Marit, and our three kids, Elise, Silas, and Jens. We thrive on exploring our surroundings through community events, parks, and museums. You can often find us cheering our kids on at a swim meet or baseball game, and we love all Minnesota sports. Go Vikings!
Sam Lau
Refugee Ministry Leader
Sam Lau
Refugee Ministry Leader
Email: slau@northwestbible.org
Phone: 214-396-6513
I am honored to serve Northwest Bible Church as one of the Refugee Ministry Leaders at the Northwest Community Center. I am currently also a member of Christar, a church planting organization that works among the least-reached peoples of the world. My wife, Charis, and I have been with Christar for 10 years now and previously served with them overseas. It is a privilege to serve God among the least-reached wherever we are.
I grew up in a Christian family and came to faith at the age of five through the testimony of my mother. A concern for disadvantaged and marginalized communities coupled with a challenge to consider missions resulted in a commitment to serve God in a cross-cultural setting. That led to enrolling at Dallas Theological Seminary (where Charis and I met) to gain a more solid biblical and theological foundation, joining Christar, and then moving overseas to serve cross-culturally. After returning to the States, Christar’s refugee emphasis led me to the NCC.
Charis and I have two children, whom we love dearly. They are a source of much joy and laughter in our lives. I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, following the Golden State Warriors and Oakland A’s, trying new foods, traveling, and making things.
Brian Lonergan
Sports & Fitness Minister
Brian Lonergan
Sports & Fitness Minister
Email: blonergan@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7704
I am thrilled to serve as the Sports & Fitness Minister at Northwest since 2007 and that Northwest has been my church home for more than twenty years. In 2007, I transitioned out of the corporate world to focus my time fully on ministry to high school students. In 2013 I transitioned to the new role of Sports & Fitness Minister to develop the Sports & Fitness ministry where I get to combine my love for sports and fitness with my passion for outreach and discipleship.
Without outreach, I would have never known who Jesus was and without discipleship I would have never grown in my faith. When I was 15, I was introduced to Jesus through the outreach efforts of an old man who loved Jesus so much that he wanted to share Christ with everyone around him (whether he knew them or not). Knowing that athletes require more than just attention to their physical build, l am honored by the opportunity to address their spiritual needs as well. I strive to utilize the platform of sports and fitness to show and share the gospel and ultimately ignite the potential of athletes beyond the field of play.
Faith Michael
Refugee Ministry Leader
Faith Michael
Refugee Ministry Leader
Email: fmichael@northwestbible.org
Phone: 972-332-1743
It is an honor to serve as the Refugee Ministry Leader at Northwest Bible Church. Growing up surrounded by numerous cultures, the Lord stirred my heart for people of different backgrounds from a young age. In college, the Lord broke my heart for the nations and opened the door to proclaim Him all over the world. It is a humbling privilege to share the Good News message of salvation by grace through faith in Christ Jesus alone to a hurting world desperate for hope and yearning for truth. Through a sequence of God-ordained events, I came to Northwest after graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary. I was raised in a loving Christian home and accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was four years old. Throughout the years, I have served in various ministry capacities from worship to young adults ministry and most recently, equipping and discipleship. I love to tell people that I am glad the Lord is writing my story because He is much more creative than I am! The verse which marks my life is Genesis 28:15, which highlights God’s steadfast character and faithful promise to be with me in all places and circumstances. I am passionate about connecting believers with those in their community, and the opportunity to love and serve the nations in our backyard is a blessing! Exploring God’s creation through action-packed activities such as scuba diving with sharks and zip lining in the middle of the jungle brings me immense joy! An avid traveler, my bags are always packed for the next adventure. In quiet moments, I enjoy reading mystery novels and solving logic puzzles. A music aficionado, I will often be found singing and jamming away on the piano. My daily prayer is for my every breath and heartbeat to bring glory to God!
Katy Nieman
Outreach Director
Katy Nieman
Outreach Director
Email: knieman@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7721
I am grateful to serve as the Outreach Director at Northwest! After working in the finance industry for eight years, I was thrilled to put my passion into my workplace and my career. When I was in high school, I began attending church because I loved the company of my friends that were there. In college I grew in my faith and my excitement for living out God’s great commission, participating in various mission trips to Boston, New York City and then Perth, Australia. In this role, I have loved further expanding my desire to bring the gospel to those who are looking for the truth, and equipping leaders to do it too.
I am an avid, life-long Texas Rangers fan and have become an Oklahoma Sooner fan through marriage to my wonderful husband, Bryce. I have two girls, Etta and Lily and I enjoy spending my free time being Mom and simply enjoying our family.
The Lord has reminded me lately that I am beloved, and I can rest in His unchanging, never stopping, always and forever love. Psalm 127:2 reminds me He calls me beloved, and He desires for me to rest in Him.
Kiana Pickett
Sports & Fitness Coordinator
Kiana Pickett
Sports & Fitness Coordinator
Email: kpickett@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7709
I grew up near Chicago and came to Texas in 2020 after graduating from Ball State University in Indiana. Growing up I participated in tennis, gymnastics, and dance, and loved the freedom and feeling that participating in sports gave me. I'm grateful for my position as Sports & Fitness Coordinator because it allows me to build a connection with people through the foundation of Jesus and sports. I found Christ during my parents divorce and was baptized when I was 13. One of the verses that continues to bring me through my journey with God is Philippians 4:13, “I can do ALL things through Christ, who strengthens me.” No matter the obstacles and trials I face, with His guidance I know that I’m able to conquer anything that may come my way. I still like to dance, and these days I also enjoy reading, watching Netflix series, and playing with my dog, Chewi.
Worship & Communications
Maurice Alexander
Technical Arts Director
Maurice Alexander
Technical Arts Director
Email: malexander@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7714
Tiffany Frampton
Graphic Designer
Tiffany Frampton
Graphic Designer
Email: tframpton@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7713
I am honored and blessed to being serving as a graphic designer at Northwest Bible Church! I joined the team in March 2018, after working in marketing agencies for 4 years. My husband and I felt the calling to leave our home in North Pole, AK and see what doors God would open up. It was an incredible journey to see God work and provide this amazing opportunity!
I was truly blessed to grow up in a Christian home, church and school. I accepted Christ into my heart when I was 5, after listening to a message at Awanas. I have always believed in Jesus and considered myself a Christian, however, I struggled with insecurities throughout Junior High and my early years in High School. I didn’t find my identity in Christ. After God opened my eyes through a missions trip to Russia, I began to see my identity in Him. I am now happy to live my life through God’s eyes and not my own!
I am so lucky to live with some of my best friends (my husband Darren and our dog Duke)! I love spending time with friends and family when I get the opportunity. My favorite environment is being outside, surrounded by tall buildings! I enjoy biking, longboarding/skateboarding, snowboarding, soccer and I would love to learn how to hip-hop dance. I love food and my favorite snacks are lemons and limes. My favorite verse is Philippians 4:13 — I am a dreamer and I believe God has big plans for my life, so I love to remember that I CAN do all things through CHRIST who strengthens me!
Ann Fuller
Worship Coordinator
Ann Fuller
Worship Coordinator
Email: afuller@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7711
I’m a dependent of God and a disciple of Jesus, pursuing the direction of the Holy Spirit. God called me to worship ministry when I was a child, and serving in worship through the piano/keys on Sunday, and now as the Worship Coordinator here at Northwest, is my passion.
I'm thankful to have grown up on Siesta Key, Florida and am a Baylor grad. I enjoy accompanying high school choirs, Pilates, jigsaw puzzles, time at the beach and being with friends and family. Two married children, their spouses and 2 granddaughters bring me great joy!
God’s great love and compassion have been evident in my life as He has rescued me, provided for me, and blessed me beyond what I ever imagined. “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He rescues them” (Ps 34:7). I’m grateful He’s not through with me yet! At the core of who I am, I believe God is good and faithful; His Word is true and powerful; my hope and my joy are secure in Jesus because I know He “makes a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isa 43:19)
Colton Hoover
Videographer
Colton Hoover
Videographer
Email: choover@northwestbible.org
Peyton Neill
Worship Minister
Peyton Neill
Worship Minister
Email: pneill@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-753-7712
I am privileged to serve as the Worship Minister here at Northwest Bible Church. I joined the team in November 2017, after five years of serving as the Worship Minister at Central Baptist Church in Tyler, TX. Prior to that, I served on staff at Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, TX within the Worship Ministry and the Student Ministry. I married the love of my life, Ashley, in June 2011. We are blessed with two wonderful children. It is my greatest joy to spend time with my family and to use my passion for worship and music.
I grew up in a wonderful family-oriented home and came to know Jesus Christ as the Lord of my life at the age 16. At age 17 I surrendered my life to full-time ministry. I had no idea that the Lord could use an anger filled kid to help serve His Kingdom. I have led music for camps, conferences, and churches around the nation. I am passionate about prayer and about seeing others pour their hearts out in worship as they praise the King of Kings. My purpose in life is to Expand Horizons. God has shown me so much more in my life than I ever thought was possible and I love expressing to others that God can accomplish abundantly more in their lives than they could ever imagine. I love helping others reach their full potential.
I enjoy spending time with my family, watching movies, and developing leaders within the church and the community. I am also a passionate songwriter who loves to write for the Church. The scripture I depend on the most in my current walk with the Lord is James 1:2-4. It reminds me that through the trials and the fears of life, I can depend on the Lord for His strength and provision. I also know it is during the storms of life that Jesus can help my endurance grow.
April Payne
Worship Director
April Payne
Worship Director
Email: apayne@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7711
I am so excited to be serving at Northwest as Worship Director! My husband and I have attended the church and volunteered in the Worship Ministry since 2008. I joined the staff full time in June of 2017 after teaching K-5 music in public schools for 11 years.
I accepted Christ at a young age when neighborhood friends brought me with them to AWANAS at their church. It wasn’t until the age of 13, however, that I had my first meaningful experience with worship and truly fell in love with Jesus. That first time I closed my eyes, lifted my hands, and sang with all my heart, I was hooked! My passion for worship and music ministry has shaped my path since then, resulting in my involvement with several church worship teams and choirs as well as completing both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music.
When I’m not working, I love spending time with my incredible husband, Seth, and our surprise gift from God, our daughter September Rhodes who was born in May 2021. I will eat almost anything (especially if it’s sweet), enjoy reading YA fiction, and have hiccups every day. Most of all, I am constantly blown away by all the ways that God has blessed me despite the fact that I deserve nothing.
Jennifer Sharp
Communications Director
Jennifer Sharp
Communications Director
Email: jsharp@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7705
I love being able to use my creative skills for Jesus as the Communications Director. After getting my BFA in Art Direction from Texas A&M Commerce, I started my first job as an art director at an advertising agency in downtown Dallas. I loved the fast-paced environment and the excitement of coming up with new promotional ideas and designs, but I didn’t really feel fulfilled. When the opportunity opened for me to become the graphic designer at Northwest (my home church), I decided to try it out. I’m so glad God led me here, because it’s been the single greatest blessing of my career, and it’s changed my view of using my gifts for ministry.
I’ve been really blessed in my life because I don’t remember a time that I didn’t know Jesus. My parents are Christians and raised me to know God from an early age. I remember when I was about 3 or 4 years old, asking to pray with my mom to invite Jesus into my heart—I felt we were already friends, so I wanted to make it official! I’ve gone through many phases in my walk with Jesus. He’s been faithful to lead me through doubt, fear, joy, rebellion, and complacency, and to deliver me from bondage.
If there’s one thing you should know about my personality, it’s that my brain is wired for comedy. I love laughing, which is one of the main reasons I was attracted to my amazing husband! He’s hilarious—on top of being a kind-hearted follower of Jesus. We were married in 2006 and are experiencing desperate dependence and unexpected joy in raising our two children. Some of my favorite things to do are hanging out and laughing with friends, singing, baking, getting pedicures, traveling, and being at the beach or anywhere close to the water!
Nadia Thomas
Social Media Strategist
Nadia Thomas
Social Media Strategist
Email: nthomas@northwestbible.org
I am excited to serve Northwest as their Social Media Strategist. Social media has been one of my greatest passions for about six years because it’s one of the darkest places on earth and it’s an honor to represent the light and love of Jesus in the midst of such darkness. I am also a photographer and blogger.
I grew up in a small town in the thumb of Michigan, attended college at Bethany Global University studying Bible, Theology and Intercultural Ministries. I moved to Dallas in 2020 and met my wonderful fiancé, Elliott. After moving to Dallas, I adopted a cat named Ollie and he’s the love of my life!
I became a follower of Jesus in 2015 after my brother unexpectedly passed away. During that time, I felt Jesus gently tug on my heart and pull me towards Him. I knew He was the only one that could comfort and heal me—not the passions of the world—so I gave up my sinful life to live fully surrendered to Him and have been joyfully walking with Him since. He has truly been my source of joy even when every emotion and circumstance in my life tells me I shouldn’t have any.
I feel blessed beyond my wildest dreams to be a part of Northwest and can’t wait to see how Jesus uses my giftings for His glory!
Cassie Watson
Worship Leader
Cassie Watson
Worship Leader
Email: cwatson@northwestbible.org
Administration
William Aragon
Events Manager
William Aragon
Events Manager
Email: waragon@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7786
I am overjoyed to serve as Northwest’s Events Manager and be a part of the family here. I previously worked for Tyson Foods as a Load Planner overseeing daily shipping operations for the last 9 years and moved to Dallas when another job opportunity was offered to my wife. We have been married for almost 20 years and have two teenagers.
Christ found me in a dark place in my life, where I struggled with depression, addictions, and a crumbling marriage, coupled with the loss of my older brother who was like a father and my best friend. I was lost, and finding a reason to go on became difficult, so I began a conversation that I haven’t had in a long time with our Father and He responded by sending me one of His servants to invite us to their Church. From the moment I stepped into His house, I felt the Holy Spirit for the first time in my life, and I haven’t stopped attending since! Jesus did exactly what He said He would and restored my heart, took my addictions, and filled me with grace!
Now, with a renewed spirit, I can fully enjoy what God has blessed me with and given to me. Spending time with my children and taking my wife on dates are my favorite ways to spend my time. I also enjoy playing the guitar, listening to worship music and reading scripture. 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." This verse really speaks to me and knowing how the Lord has changed every aspect of my life by simply giving myself to Him and all the glory is His!
Belinda Borja
Bookkeeper
Belinda Borja
Bookkeeper
Email: bborja@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7784
I am privileged to serve as the Bookkeeper here at Northwest Bible Church. I joined the team in June 2018, after 12 years in Accounting at Norton Rose Fulbright. It was God’s grace that led me to my current role here at Northwest, after taking a year and half off work to transition my then 5-year-old to kindergarten.
I grew up going to church and learned about our Savior Jesus Christ in my early childhood. There was one specific prayer that I would pray every day and my prayer was finally answered at the age of 17. I’m highly dependent on our Lord Jesus Christ who is in the midst of it all.
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, trying out different restaurants, watching movies, and traveling.
This verse reminds me of God’s grace in my everyday life:
2 Corinthians 9:8 — "God has the power to provide you with more than enough of every kind of grace. That way, you will have everything you need always and in everything to provide more than enough for every kind of good work."
Joe Brogdon
Controller
Joe Brogdon
Controller
Email: jbrogdon@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7783
I am blessed and privileged to serve as the Controller for Northwest Bible Church, having arrived here in January 2020. I’ve served in a number of capacities in the finance and accounting arena over the years, primarily in the nonprofit industry. Prior to my arrival, I served in a similar role at an organization which, among other programs, resettled refugees in the Dallas area. In recent years, the organization collaborated with Northwest at the Northwest Community Center, and it was through that relationship that I became more fully aware of the leadership role that Northwest plays in bringing the Gospel to refugees and, truly, the whole world!
I grew up in a large family, and my parents took their faith, the practice of it, and imparting it to us kids very seriously. It wasn’t until the birth of my first child that I completely understood how essential and challenging this could be. But even more importantly, I realized at that time that I was essentially borrowing on my faith heritage, and needed to make my relationship with Jesus personal, so that I could then more effectively reflect Him to my children and to others I interacted with. In my years with the resettlement agency, I developed a heart for refugees and other strangers, whom Jesus called us to welcome. While my “life verse” has changed over the various seasons of my life, the call “to do justice, love kindness, and to walk humbly” with God has compelled me to remember that all of us are created in His image and deserve respect, kindness and love.
I was born and raised and spent my entire life in and around the Dallas area (as did my parents and grandparents!), so I have a passion for the city and its people. I’ve been married to my beautiful wife for over 30 years and have two grown daughters. Gathered with and surrounded by other followers of Jesus in active worship is my greatest pleasure. Otherwise, I’m happiest when I’m outdoors, whether it’s walking, hiking, running or riding my bike, and spending time with family and friends. And occasional binge-watching (appropriate!) television.
Anna Terlouw
Front Desk Associate
Anna Terlouw
Front Desk Associate
Email: aterlouw@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7707
I'm excited to serve on staff as the Front Desk Associate. My husband and I are brand new to Northwest and are ready to dive in! I'm from Pflugerville, TX and recently graduated from Dallas Christian College with a degree in Biblical Ministry. I found church on my own in middle school, got involved with the youth group, and from there began a relationship with God in high school. The youth group is a big part of my life and testimony—God used adult leaders to teach and guide me in my new walk with Christ. Since graduating high school I have had a passion for student ministry and the next generation because of the great impact youth ministry had on my life. I also love Celebrate Recovery! I believe that no one is too broken for the love and grace that God has for us, and that God has the power to heal and restore our hearts from our hurts. I enjoy outdoor activities and playing video games with my husband. We both have a heart for serving and for ministry, and are pursuing our calling to full-time ministry as we begin this new chapter of our lives together.
Marla Frost
Office & Database Manager
Marla Frost
Office & Database Manager
Email: mfrost@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7787
It is my pleasure to serve as the Office & Database Manager. I have a Journalism degree from the University of North Texas and spent 20 years in the legal field working as a paralegal and project manager before joining Northwest in 2013.
My Christian walk began when I was baptized at the age of 10, though it wasn’t until I married my husband 30+ years ago that life became Christ-centered. He helped focus me on the truth of the scriptures and showed me how to depend on the holy spirit. During a difficult time in my life, my aunt led me to Psalm 121 and it has since become my go-to verse: “Where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord…He who watches over you will not slumber…He will watch over your life.”
My favorite thing to do is travel with my husband, family and friends. We love the Texas Hill Country and the Virgin Islands and try to add one new state or country to our travel adventures each year. This world is beautiful, and God is present everywhere.
Matt Senter
Facilities Manager
Matt Senter
Facilities Manager
Email: msenter@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7788
I am privileged to serve as the Facilities Manager at Northwest Bible Church. I began my journey here in July 1999 and previously served in various roles at Dallas Theological Seminary and Sanitor Janitors. I have been married to an awesome woman for many years and we have two beautiful daughters who keep us very busy.
I grew up in a Christian home and had great examples in my parents. I asked Jesus into my heart at the age of 10 during a very hot Texas summer at church camp. Since High School, I have believed my spiritual gift is the gift of service and I always thought it would be cool to serve and work in a church environment. I feel blessed to be able to do that here at Northwest.
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and watching lots of sports and movies. If I could have any food my preference would be Nachos from Taco Bell. Out of all the sports that I like to follow, my favorite is college football. I am a big Oklahoma Sooners fan, but my wife and girls like to disappoint me and cheer for the Longhorns, grrrrrrrrrrrr! My favorite Bible Verse is Daniel 2:22, “God reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he himself is surrounded by light.”
Vanessa Sick
Lead Accountant
Vanessa Sick
Lead Accountant
Email: vsick@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7782
I am the newest edition to the Accounting & Finance team and what a blessing & privilege it is to serve as Lead Accountant. I was born and raised in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia. I grew up in church and was so young when I accepted Christ into my heart that I don’t recall the exact moment I got saved. I was baptized around age 8 and my relationship with the Lord has been ever progressive. My husband and I have been married for 21 years and have lived in six states: VA, TN, NC, SC, NV, TX. One week after making the decision to move to Texas in 2014, the Lord confirmed it. I began work in the Dallas area as a Staff Accountant for SEI Fuel Services, Inc. In 2016 the Lord led me to quit my accounting job there. It was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do because I really liked my job; however, I wanted to be obedient so I left it behind. Seven months later I received an opportunity to use my degree to advance His kingdom. I didn’t know much about nonprofit accounting at the time so I researched and did online training to educate myself and obtain the knowledge necessary. For three years I served as the Accounting & Finance Administrator at another church. In April of 2019 the Lord released me from my role there and has since opened a door for me here at Northwest. Ecclesiastes 3:1 “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
Katie Smith
Executive Assistant
Katie Smith
Executive Assistant
Email: ksmith@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7700
As a member of Northwest Bible Church since 2016, I am humbled to have joined the staff in 2021 as Executive Assistant. I am a Baylor University graduate (Sic’Em Bears!) where I studied Child and Family Studies and was able to utilize what I learned to serve families as I walked them through the Foster Care and International Adoption Process. I was led into an administrative role at Abilene Christian University where I had the opportunity to explore and learn about my strengths and passion for serving an organization behind the scenes. I made the decision to trust Jesus with my life at an early age and have walked with him since through the ups and downs – and there have been many of both, but He is always good and learning to surrender to His will has been the greatest lesson I’ve learned thus far. I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Preston, since 2011 and we have three little blessings – Asher, Caleb and Landry and a sweet “inherited” daughter, Naomi, who I have loved since I went on my first mission trip to Zambia in 2007. With our family and two dogs, it’s a full house! When I’m not at church or chasing my kids around, I enjoy reading and doing anything creative.
Michael Volbeda
Executive Minister of Operations
Michael Volbeda
Executive Minister of Operations
Email: mvolbeda@northwestbible.org
Phone: 469-453-7702
I'm excited to serve as Executive Minister of Operations at Northwest Bible Church. In addition to partnering with our elders and Neil to lead the overall direction of the church, I also serve with many different teams of ministers and support staff who faithfully serve behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.
I trusted Jesus for my salvation at age 12 and immediately began serving in the local church. I’m originally from southern California but moved to Dallas to attend Dallas Theological Seminary which is where I met my wife Amber. After seminary, I spent some time in the marketplace working in commercial real estate and financial services before serving in executive pastor positions at churches in Dallas and Nashville. God has used all of those experiences to reveal my sweet spot in ministry which is bringing together the spiritual side and the organizational side of the church.
Amber and I have five wonderful kids who bring us equal measures of joy and exhaustion. One of my favorite verses in scripture is Psalm 1 because I have experienced the goodness of God through the many seasons of life. You can find me wherever fine caffeinated beverages are sold, probably there meeting a with staff member or church leader.