LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY

Michael grew up in Texas, California, New Mexico, Kansas, and Missouri  before attending college in Arkansas. He and his wife, Emily, have called Arizona home for a decade and they are grateful to claim this place as home! The son and grandson of missionaries and preachers, Michael knew from an early age that he would also go into ministry. He received his Master's of Divinity from Harding School of Theology in Memphis, TN. 

Michael joined the ministry team at the Tempe Church in 2018. He is so proud to be a part of this small church that sets such a large table. The willingness of this congregation to follow God's lead is a refreshing stream of water in the desert. Michael is married to his best friend, Emily. They have three amazingly gifted children, Olivia, Maddox, and Jude.

Liz serves as Executive and Family Minister at Tempe Church, helping lead the church’s day-to-day operations and overseeing children’s ministries. 

After attending Bible college in Southern California, she and her husband, Tom, spent ten years leading two churches there before moving to Arizona. Liz holds a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Development from Fielding Graduate University. Liz and her husband Tom have four daughters - three biological and one who joined their family through adoption.

She loves reading, hiking, visiting farmers markets, and helping people and organizations build healthy communities where everyone can flourish.

Caroline serves as the Campus Minister to Oasis, an organization focused on spiritual transformation into Christlikeness, leadership development, and relationship health for college-aged young adults. After graduating from Arizona State University with degrees in Biology and Dance, she spent time with the Peace Corps in Ecuador and later in China teaching and collaborating with students of all ages. While abroad, she led health workshops with college students to promote healthy living in rural communities. She also connected with various campus ministries, igniting her passion for fostering environments where healthy communities can be created for young adults. It is with a grateful, enthusiastic heart that she has returned to work with the students and young adults of our community. 

Young adults are always welcome at Oasis’ community events. If you or someone you know has questions about how to get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Caroline at: caroline@tempechurch.org. All are welcome at our table!

Claire joined our family in 2017 to plant Oasis, our campus ministry, after serving as an apprentice at the University of Mississippi campus ministry, Rebels for Christ. Claire is from Arkansas where she graduated from Harding University with a Bachelor's in Bible and Religion. She later received her Masters in Ministry and Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. As our Author in Residence, Claire seeks to serve all members of our family with compassion and creativity! 

Claire is also passionate about animal welfare. Her dog, Periwinkle, and cat, Peanut, inspire her to care for all creatures. You can frequently find her fostering kittens or walking dogs at our local shelter.