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Rick Bowling

A fan of tennis and Dad jokes, Rick is a pastor with a heart wide open to all people. Whether in the pulpit, small group, or counseling setting, he is passionate about seeing people set free through the power of Christ to live a transformed life. 

Rick and his wife, Susan, live in Shelby. They have raised four sons and are enjoying being grandparents. They are famous for their annual doughnut party and wonderful hospitality. 

Rick received a BA from North Carolina State University, his MDIV from Gardner-Webb University School of Divinity and his Doctorate of Ministry from Ashland Theological Seminary. 

Rick loves the community and serves on various boards and as chaplain for the Cleveland County Volunteer Department. 

Lauren Mertz

Lauren is a recent graduate of Gardner-Webb University and currently serves as a children’s minister. She is passionate about teaching children the love of Jesus and finds joy in watching them grow in their faith and understanding of what it means to love and follow God. 

Originally from Hendersonville, NC, Lauren moved to Boiling Springs after earning her Bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies with a concentration in Youth Discipleship. In her free time, she enjoys creating art, spending time at the lake, and being outdoors.

Jennifer Leigh

A Shelby native, Jennifer serves as our church secretary and jack of all trades. She serves with willingness and joy and keeps everything moving forward. 

Jennifer's hobbies include cooking and snuggling up to watch Netflix. She lives with her husband and daughter. She enjoys cruises, the mountains, and travel, in general, 

Jennifer and her husband own and operate a non-profit that serves the homeless in our community. It includes shelters, a day program, and day-to-day necessities such as clothing and food.