Leadership

Pastor/Teacher: Derek Yoder

Derek Scott Yoder has pastored the First Congregational Church of North Collins since 1997. Originally from Michigan, he received his theological training from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts (M.Div. 1995; Th.M. in biblical theology, 1996). Derek describes his theology as Reformed, covenantal, and Klinian. He believes that all Christian life and ministry flow from the risen Christ through God’s revelation in the scriptures. A patient, thoughtful understanding of the Bible and its faithful application is therefore central to the church. Derek is credentialed by the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference.

Derek and his wife Alice have raised four children and one border terrier in the parsonage and welcomed their first grandson in June and their first granddaughter in October. In his free time, Derek enjoys the Blues, poetry, classic books and movies, grilling spareribs on summer afternoons, and reading about politics, culture, and coelacanths.

Elder Board: Matt Clapper, Garry Dole

Elders: entrusted with the special responsibility to oversee the spiritual well-being and purity of His people (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-3) exercising spiritual leadership in matters to the Church preserving the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3)

Deacon Board: Carol Allen, Trish Brown, Lynda Francis, Natalie Ridge, Steve Ridge, Alice Yoder

Deacons: entrusted primarily with the material, physical care (Acts 6:2-4) of the Church through the ministry to those in need. They shall oversee all fellowship meals, provide hospitality needs and assist the Elders in preparing and serving the Lord’s Supper.