Our Leadership
Who We Are
Our Leadership & Staff
The Vessel is an elder-led and deacon supported church. Leadership in the church is not like leadership in the world. Leaders are first and foremost servants of Jesus and therefore servant leaders. We also recognize that all leadership in the church flows from the authority of Christ as the head of the church, and all true authority resides not in a man or position but in the Word of God. Jesus is the Chief Shepherd of the flock, the risen and reigning King who has been seated with all authority to advance the gospel.
What do we see in Scripture?
When we look at the Scriptures (specifically Acts and the Epistles), we don’t see leaders as disconnected decision makers or power brokers in the church. We see examples of Christian maturity who are not perfect but have evidenced maturity in Christ. Therefore, the fundamental identity of a Christian is disciple. Leaders are disciples first and leaders second. Disciple is an identity; everything else is a role (leader, servant, worker, etc). 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 5:17, Titus 1:5-9, Acts 20:28, 1 Peter 5:1-4
Elders
Justin Smith
Teaching Pastor / Elder
Ryan Connel
Community Pastor / Elder
Bobby Livengood
Elder
Staff
Garrett Day
Worship Pastor
Rachel Ballard
Children's MInister
Crista Rojo
Women's Minister
“But we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who work diligently among you, who preside over you in the Lord and give you instruction. In love, hold them in highest regard because of their work. Live in peace with one another. And we urge you, brothers, to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with everyone. Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.”