Mike Linch | Ike Reighard |
| Ruby Berry | Ludell Bishop | Chris Boggess |
| Paul Boggess | Randy Elster | Sharon Evans |
| Niki Faith |Stephanie Ford | Bonnie Hoover|
| Daniel Hoover| Marsha James | Tricia Levy |
| Marlon Longacre |Jamie Maddox |Kelley Maddox |
| Brad Parkhurst | Tim Pearce | Nick Person |
| C.A. Phillips |Terri Reichert | Steve Roach |
| Winfrey Shields | Wally & Nidia Walkup |

Mike Linch
Senior Pastor

Mike Linch has served on staff at NorthStar Church since the church's inception in January 1997. Mike served as Associate Pastor for more than six years, until 2003, when he was promoted to Senior Pastor. Prior to joining NorthStar, he served from 1991-96 as Youth Minister at First Baptist Church of Kennesaw. As Senior Pastor, Mike's role is "to help lead NorthStar day-to-day and to preach and teach on weekends."

Mike is a graduate of Liberty University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech Communications. Additionally, he was a three-year baseball letterman at Liberty, earning the Coaches Award twice. Mike also was recognized as the outstanding student in Speech Communication in 1991 and served as Assistant Baseball Coach during his Senior year. In 1998, Mike went on to earn his Master of Divinity Degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Mike's passions: Love being with family and coaching Little League baseball. I love my job!!

On the Future of NorthStar: "I think that our future is unlimited as are the possibilities! NorthStar Church knows one thing really good and that is how to love people! I believe that God has unbelievable things in store as we "show God's love" in the days & years to come! I see the day when thousands will weekly attend our NorthStar Campus for weekend services and even more gather in our community in homes to be part of life groups."

Mike resides in Powder Springs with wife Anne, son Casey and daughter Mary-Michal.

If I could recommend one book to someone: The Best Question Ever by Andy Stanley

Favorite Movie: Field of Dreams

In my CD player...Rascal Flatts, Casting Crowns, or Switchfoot

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Dwight “Ike” Reighard
Founding Pastor

Salvation Experience: I came to Christ when I was 22 years old through the influence of several committed Christians. Dr. John Yarbrough was the person who led me through the ABCs of knowing Christ (A – Acknowledge that you desire to know God; B – Believe on the Name of Jesus Christ; C – Confess your sin and now confess Him as Lord)

Family: Robin, wife; Danielle and Abigail, daughters

Hobbies: My family, traveling and learning together; playing tennis; reading (non-fiction)

Secret Ambition: A full-time job as an Elvis impersonator

Ministry Area Dream: I live my dream every day as a pastor who gets to pour his life into the people of the church and to be able to touch the lives of people in corporate America who may never walk into a church. Being between two worlds is a challenge and an inspiration for me. The staff of NorthStar has helped make my dreams come true. The adage that you will never rise above the level of those around you is true and functional in my ministry life.

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Ruby Berry
Director of The Women's League

Ruby joined the NorthStar staff in 2001 as Director of The Women's League. Her role involves developing and implementing strategic plans, policies, and objectives to accomplish the Women's League mission and vision. Ruby also invests a great deal of time training and shepherding the Women's League advisory team, coordinators, and facilitators.

Prior to coming on staff at NorthStar, Ruby served as the Executive Assistant to the Executive Vice President of the North American Mission Board for 3 years, and was an Executive Assistant to the Interim CEO and VP of Marketing for Solvay Pharmaceuticals for seven years.

Ruby holds a Degree in Nursing from the Medical College of Virginia, and earned a Women's Ministry Certification from the New Orleans Baptist Seminary.

Ruby's passions: "To know, love, and obey Jesus Christ. Encouraging women to develop a personal relationship with Jesus through daily study of the Word and prayer."

On the future of NorthStar: "I see NorthStar as the largest kingdom building church in Cobb and surrounding counties."

Ruby lives in Kennesaw with husband, Bill. They have two sons - Van and Jonathan, and one grandchild - Ethan.

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Ludell Bishop
Assistant to Mike Linch

Ludell joined the NorthStar staff in March 2003 as the Assistant to Senior Pastor Mike Linch. In addition to assisting the Senior Pastor in his ministry initiatives, Ludell is instrumental in helping to carry out the day-to-day operations at NorthStar, and is responsible for coordinating membership development programs such as Membership classes, Newcomers, and Baptism services throughout the year.

Prior to coming on staff at NorthStar, Ludell spent five years working for Heidelberg USA.

Ludell's passions: "Encouraging my family and others in their walk with the Lord."

On the future of NorthStar: "I see NorthStar as the Church God uses to draw people to Him through His Word and through His people. I am so honored to be a part of what He is doing here."

Ludell and her husband, Eddie, reside in Kennesaw. They have three children: Nan, Adam, and Chad.

If I could recommend one book to someone: Prayer by Richard Foster

Favorite Movie: Seabiscuit

In my CD player: Nicol Sponberg - Resurrection

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Chris Boggess
Director of Visual and Creative Arts

Chris came on board in April 2005 as Singles Pastor, where he served for nearly two years. In January 2007, Chris was named Director of Visual and Creative Arts for NorthStar. His primary role will be to film, produce, and edit videos for use in worship service and events at NorthStar. Chris will also be instrumental in a number of creative arts projects, helping with set design for services and programs at NorthStar. Prior to coming to NorthStar, Chris spent nearly ten years as the Youth Minister at Noonday Baptist Church in Marietta.

Chris holds a degree in Commercial Art/ Advertising from Concord College in Athens, WVa. He also serves as the team Chaplain for the Kell High School football team.

Chris' passions: "My God, My family, My ministry."

On the future of NorthStar: "I truly see God's hand on this NorthStar Community, and I believe we are just starting to taste the things that God is doing in and through us. I am very excited by what I have seen just in the short time I have been here."

Chris and his wife, Heather, reside in Marietta. They have two children - Allie and Elliot. In his spare time, Chris enjoys reading, studying about the Middle Ages, and making armor.

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Paul Boggess
Receptionist

Paul has been a part of the NorthStar team since November 2001 as receptionist. Paul's primary duties include answering the telephone, greeting and welcoming visitors, and handling the majority of the internal printing responsibilities at NorthStar.Prior to coming on staff at NorthStar, Paul served as a teacher and administrator for schools in West Virginia and South Carolina. Additionally, he served as a House Parent at Calvary Children's Home for one year prior to coming to the North Atlanta area.

Paul's passions: "Helping and serving others and working in the nursery at the church."

On the future of NorthStar: "It's great to be involved in a church that cares about people, and not just pomp and ceremony. You can be involved as much as you are called to be involved. I like the informal
atmosphere, and I am excited about what God is doing and going to do at NorthStar."Paul lives in Dallas, Ga., with wife Judy. They have three children and seven grandchildren.

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Randy Elster
Pastor of Spiritual Formation and
Leadership Development

Randy has served on staff at NorthStar since August 2001, and became a full-time staff member in January 2002. In November 2006, Randy was named Pastor of Spiritual Formation and Leadership Development, after serving more than a year as Worship and Creative Arts Pastor, and four years as Creative Arts Administrator.

Randy's role is multi-faceted. He continuosly pursues avenues for people to get plugged into NorthStar - serving, leading, and joining in community with other people in small groups. Essentially, Randy works with folks to get them on the path to spiritually mature, fully-devoted followers of Christ. Additionally, Randy oversees and directs our Prayer Ministry, and works with all ministry leaders in "fine-tuning" the Sunday morning experience at NorthStar!

Prior to coming on board at NorthStar, Randy served as an Office Manager for The Estee Lauder Companies for four years, and served as Assistant Pastor (Worship and Administration) at the Encourager Church from 1989-1995.

Randy holds two degree from Kennesaw State University - a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Secondary Education, as well as a Bachelor in Music (Vocal Performance), and has served as a Worship Leader for nearly 20 years.

Randy's passions: "I have a passion for leading worship, and for developing and assisting our leaders in the Creative Arts ministry to creatively communicate the gospel message in our services."

On the future of NorthStar: "In the future, automated offering baskets will hover through the aisles and children will use a transportation device to get to their classes...Seriously, the sky is the limit for NorthStar is we will focus on two things: loving God and loving people.My prayer is that we never get satisfied with where we are, but always strive to reach our community. Also, in the future Marlon will be an audio-animatronic figure like in the Hall of Presidents at Disney World."

Randy, wife Cheryl, and daughter Jenni reside in Acworth, Ga.

If I could recommend one book to someone: Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen

Favorite Movie: Star Wars

In my CD Player: Anything Worth Saying by Aaron Shust

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Sharon Evans
Administrative Assistant

Sharon Evans came on board NorthStar's staff in July 2000 as an Administrative Assistant. Sharon primarily provides support for the Student Development Team, which includes our Middle School, High School, and College Pastors, as well as our Campus Ministry outreach.

Before joining the NorthStar staff, Sharon worked as an Administrative Assistant for ten years for Metric Property Management.

Sharon's passions: "Spending time with my family, hearing how God is at work in the lives of others, encouraging others in their walk with Christ."

On the future of NorthStar: "I see NorthStar continuing to be a compassionate, community-focused church, where people can see and experience God's love."

Sharon and her husband, Dave, reside in Kennesaw. She has two sons, Scott and Brad Morrell, and two "daughters" - Emily and Misty. They also have three grandsons - Sammy, Brandon, and Jacob - and a granddaughter, Hannah.

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Niki Faith
Financial Assistant

Niki joined the NorthStar staff in August 2006 as Financial Assistant. She primarily assists with the financial operations of the church, ranging from contributions to accounts payable. Prior to coming on board at NorthStar, Niki served as Human Resources Director for Summit Marketing for ten years. She also served as an HR Manager for BellSouth for nearly 11 years.

Niki holds an MBA from Kennesaw State University, and has been recognized as a Senior Professional in Human Resources by the Society for Human Resource Managers. Additionally, Niki has her own amateur photography business.

Niki's passions: My family, working with children, photography, scrapbooking, growing in my walk with Christ.

On the future of NorthStar: I see NorthStar continuing to grow as we actively reach out to our community to show God’s love. Niki, her husband, Mark, and their son, Brandon, reside in Kennesaw.

If I could recommend one book to someone: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings - Maya Angelou

My favorite movie: Young Frankenstein

In my CD player...Montgomery Gentry

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Stephanie Ford
Assistant Director
Worship Ministry

Stephanie Ford joined NorthStar's staff in 2005 as Assistant Director for Worship and Creative Arts. In addition to leading worship and playing flute and keyboard in the praise band, Stephanie also directs the Worship Community (NorthStar's choir), as well as managing many of the technical needs for events that are held at NorthStar. Stephanie also takes care of several of the administrative needs of the ministry.

Stephanie graduated from Stetson University in 1997 with a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education. She has spent nine years in the Education field, serving as a music teacher for Eastside Christian for nearly seven years, and currently directs the music program for Cornerstone Preperatory Academy, in addition to her duties at NorthStar. Additionally, Stephanie has served as the Vocal Director on several of the Integrity-Shout Praise Kids CDs, and has assisted as a clinician for WorshipOne's praise band ministry, led by NorthStar's Daniel and Bonnie Hoover.

Stephanie's passions: spending quality time with family and friends, teaching school, watching football with my husband!

On the future of NorthStar: I pray Northstar continues to be a place where people come to know the Lord in new and exciting ways; where people are not concerned with how they look, what they have or where they came from, but rather a place where people feel loved and accepted, regardless of where life has taken them.

Stephanie resides in Dallas with her husband Brandon, and son, Eli.

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Daniel Hoover
Pastor of Worship

Daniel Hoover began serving as the Pastor of Worship at NorthStar Church in November 2006. Daniel is responsible for directing and coordinating the worship ministry at NorthStar. He is responsible for leading worship for the weekly services, service planning, rehearsals. He also helps develop the technical skill and spiritual development of those who serve in the worship ministry.

He and his wife, Bonnie, initially joined the NorthStar team in June 2003 as Directors of the Student Arts ministry. Prior to coming on full-time at NorthStar, Daniel and his wife, Bonnie, founded a ministry called WorshipOne, in which they served as worship leaders/clinicians at conferences and churches across the country. They continue to oversee WorshipOne and occasionally serve as clinicians at seminars and praise band conferences teaching worship bands how to grow spiritually and musically.

Daniel holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music (vocal performance) and is working toward completion of his Master's degree in Religion and Worship Studies.

Daniel’s Passion: My passion is to help people develop a lifestyle of worship and to see the lives of the people around me change through a relationship of steady, continuous discipleship.

On the future of NorthStar: It is evident that God is already beginning to develop our congregation to become worshipers not just on Sunday morning, but also throughout the week in their homes and workplace.  I long to see a church where the believers have a balance of spiritual depth and authentic faith that flows out of the church building and into the lives of the people in our community.

If I could recommend one book: Classic Christianity by Bob George

Favorite Movie: School Of Rock- (Acting at it’s finest!)

Gear Used: Taylor 814 Acoustic, Fender Telecaster Electric & Vox AC 15 amp

What’s in my CD player: Keith Urban, Hillsong United

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Bonnie Hoover
Worship Ministry Assistant

Bonnie began serving as an assistant in the worship ministry in November 2006, after serving as the Director of Student Creative Arts & Worship at NorthStar for more than three years. Bonnie's primary role is service planning, which involves creating the order of service for the Sunday morning worship services and taking care of many of the administrative needs of the ministry. In addition to singing and playing bass guitar in the praise band, Bonnie uses her gift of encouragement to invest in the leadership and spiritual development of band members and vocalists who serve within the worship ministry.

Prior to coming on staff, Bonnie and her husband, Daniel, founded Worship One, a ministry in which they served as worship leaders at conferences and churches across the country. They continue to oversee WorshipOne and occasionally serve as clinicians at seminars and praise band conferences teaching worship bands how to grow spiritually and musically.

Bonnie holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. She and her husband, Daniel, currently reside in Dallas, Ga.

Bonnie’s Passion: Working alongside my husband to lead people into intimacy with God through scriptural worship and discipleship.

On the future of NorthStar: I believe God will continue to use our body of believers to love and reach our community for Christ.  It’s such a privilege to be part of God’s work through NorthStar!  

If I could recommend one book: Captivating by John and Stasi Elridge

Favorite TV Shows: 24 & Heroes

Gear Used: Ernie Ball Music Man Bass Guitar, Ampeg 410 bass cabinet and amp

What’s in my CD player: The Fray or Hillsong United

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Marsha James
Director of Children's Life Ministries

Marsha has served as Director of Children's Life Ministries since January 2006. She served as Director of Children's and Preschool programs at NorthStar for nearly eight years before transitioning into her new role. Her primary responsibility is to oversee our Family Life Live program, as well as Adventure Week (VBS) and our LIFT training and discipleship program for our preschool and children's workers.

Marsha attended UNC-Chapel Hill, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Childhood Development. She spent 15 years as an Elementary school teacher before coming on staff at NorthStar.

Marsha's passions: "This job, helping others to find Christ, my family & home."

On the Future of NorthStar: "I see NorthStar reaching community through Jesus Christ."

Marsha resides in Acworth with husband Dewitt. They have two daughters - Jennifer and Sarah - and a son, David.

Favorite Movie: Gone with the Wind

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Tricia Levy
Elementary Director

Tricia Levy joined the NorthStar staff in August 2002 as a part-time employee, and was brought on full-time in August 2004 as Awana Director and Assistant Director of Children's Programs. She became Director of Children's Ministries in January 2006. Tricia is responsible for organizing and coordinating of the Children's program for the weekend services, as well as being one of the primary forces behind NorthStar's outreach to families and parents of children who have special needs.

Before coming on staff at NorthStar, Tricia worked for Wachovia Insurance Services as an Executive Assistant for three years. Additionally, she spent nine years with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, where she worked as an Office Manager and Compliance Officer, and was involved in Employee Development. She holds a Business Degree in Marketing from Georgia State University, where she was a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. Tricia served as Pledge President, Secretary, and President during her time there.

Tricia's passions: I am passionate about helping people of all ages realize their God-given purposes in life.

On the Future of NorthStar: "I believe that NorthStar will continue to reach our community by seeing, accepting, loving and touching people the way Jesus does."

Tricia lives in Kennesaw with her husband, Scott. They have two children - Josh and Megan. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, participating in Bible Studies, reading, and listening to worship music.

If I could recommend one book to someone: Twelve Ordinary Men by John MacArthur

Favorite TV Show: 24

In my CD Player: Third Day

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Marlon Longacre
Pastor of Community Development

Marlon Longacre has served as Pastor of Community Development for NorthStar Church since January 1999. Marlon’s primary responsibility is to make sure that NorthStar is the first call for help from anyone in the community.

Marlon has worked ceaselessly to build partnerships all over Cobb County, and has been a catalyst in NorthStar’s community outreach ministry, which includes programs such as “Shop with a Hero”, Dream Builders, Tackle Hunger, and Relay for Life. He has also forged relationships with area schools, and has helped to institute initiatives such as delivering cinnamon rolls for Teacher Appreciation Week, Grill Week for area schools prior to the first week of school in August, and Acts of Kindness such as working concessions at local high school football games in the fall.

Prior to coming on staff at NorthStar, Marlon worked for Life of Georgia as a Commission Specialist. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Morehead State University. Additionally, Marlon was honored as the 1999 Cobb County Mentor of the Year, as well as 2000 Acworth Citizen of the Year. He has served as Chairman of the Big Shanty Festival twice, and has been the Chairman of the Love the Lake Concert Series for three years.

Marlon’s passions: “Serving the community – reminding people what a great God we serve, and what a great community we live in.”

On the future of NorthStar: “NorthStar’s future is as bright as any church in the country. I look forward to seeing how God will allow this church to reach at touch 450,000 people. I look forward to claiming the promise of Romans 8:31.”

Marlon and his wife, Libby, have three boys – Todd, Jacob, and Matthew. They reside in Kennesaw.

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Jamie Maddox
Pastor of Stewardship/
Business Administrator

Jamie joined NorthStar's staff in August of 2002 after spending nearly 17 years with The Coca-Cola Company as a Senior Business Analyst. Jamie's primary responsibilities include managing the church's finances and business affairs, but he is also driven to help individual Christians realize God's best for their lives in the area of finances through Crown Ministries.

While working for Coca-Cola, Jamie earned his Bachelors in Business Administration (1996) in Finance, and subsequently, his Masters in Business Administration (1998) at Kennesaw State University. He also earned his PHR (Professional in Human Resources) certification at KSU in 2003.

Jamie's passions: "Coaching my daughters, loving my wife, supporting the church, and helping individuals."

On the future of NorthStar: "I believe the future of NorthStar is one of unbelievable success in reaching and touching the lives of people everywhere. I believe the people of NorthStar want to do something special for God and His kingdom."

Jamie resides in Kennesaw with his wife Kelley, and their two daughters - Dresden and Sierra.

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Kelley Maddox
Coordinates Resource Center

Kelley Maddox joined the NorthStar staff in 2002, originally serving as an assistant serving the Middle School, High School, and College Ministries. Today, Kelley helps to oversee Coordinates - NorthStar's Resource Center - as well as the new online store on the NorthStar web site.

Prior to coming on staff at NorthStar, Kelley worked in the Accounting Department of Loud Security, as well as Nevins Marketing Group. She holds an Accounting degree from Kennesaw State University.

Kelley's passions: "Teaching God's way of handling money, my family, reading."  Kelley resides in Kennesaw with husband, Jamie. They have two daughters - Dresden and Sierra.

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Brad Parkhurst
High School Pastor

Brad joined the NorthStar team in June 2005 as High School Pastor. His primary job is to lead the high school ministry in such a way that leaders are developed, so that students may begin a relationship with Christ and grow in that relationship, which will carry them throughout life.

Brad came to NorthStar from Lake Charles, La., where he served for more than four years as Associate Pastor of Students at Trinity Baptist Church. He holds a BSBA degree in Marketing from the University of Tulsa, and earned his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Theological Seminary.

Brad’s passions: “following Christ, loving my wife, playing with my kids, building leaders, and leading students.”

On the future of NorthStar: “NorthStar is such a unique place. I see our student ministry growing and developing over the next few years into an incredible place of growth, worship, friendships, and service. It will be a safe place where students will meet the Lord and connect with other students, leading them to a walk with Christ that will last a lifetime."Brad resides in Dallas with his wife, Angie, and their two children - Cameron and Carson.

If I could recommend one book to someone: Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller

Favorite Movie: Three Amigos

In my CD player...The Fray

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Tim Pearce
Children's Ministries

Tim Pearce joined the NorthStar team in 2004 as the Large Group Worship Coordinator for the Children's Ministry. Tim's responsibilities include creating PowerPoint Presentations for weekend programs as well as Family Life Live. He also serves as Weekend Worship Director for children's programming, as well as Family Life Live Technical Director.

In addition to his responsibilities on Sundays, Tim serves as a Geographic Information System Technician for the Cobb County government, where he has served for more than six years. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Christian Education at Nyack College in Nyack, NY, and was Ordained in the Gospel Ministry in 2005.

Tim also is active in Puppets Alive, a puppet performing and training group, and enjoys acting and singing. His hobbies include sports and camping, and he enjoys spending time with his family.

Tim's passions: "Making Children excited about learning about Jesus and coming to Church."

Tim and his wife, Dr. Diane Pearce, reside in Kennesaw. They have a daughter, Tabitha.

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Nick Person
Middle School Pastor

The self-described "middle school guy," Nick Person joined the NorthStar staff in May 2003. Nick works with 5th-8th grade students and, his job is "to try assist them in getting to know Jesus and making Him the Lord over their lives." 

Prior to coming on board on NorthStar, Nick served for four years as a Youth Intern at Roswell Street Baptist Church. He attended Samford University before transferring to Kennesaw State University, where he is working to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science/ Education. 

Nick's passions: "I love seeing students 'get it' about Jesus and them living it out every day."

On the future of NorthStar Church: "I am excited to see where the Lord is leading NorthStar. I know we will continue to change the world around us and show God's love in such a way that people will exchange ordinary for extraordinary through the transforming power of Jesus Christ."

Nick resides in Acworth with his wife, Laura. Nick loves volleyball, ultimate Frisbee, and karaoke. 

If I could recommend one book to someone: Flashbang by Mark Steele

Favorite Movie: An Imitation of Life

What's in Nick's CD Player: Jeremy Camp's Beyond Measure

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C.A. Phillips
Director of Communications

C.A. Phillips joined the NorthStar staff in September 2004 as Director of Communications. As the "air traffic controller" for information at NorthStar, C.A. is responsible for both internal and external communication. His duties include creating and producing the weekly NorthStar Navigator, overseeing the NorthStar web site, producing supporting materials such as flyers, postcards, and brochures for ministry programs, and sending out periodic press releases to local media regarding NorthStar events and programs that welcome community involvement and participation. Additionally, he is the captain of the Group Life team, works with the Service Planning Team, and oversees the Hospitality ministry at NorthStar.

Prior to coming on staff at NorthStar, C.A. served as Director of Communications for the Georgia Section of the Professional Golfers' Association of America for eight years. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism with a major in Broadcast News from the University of Georgia. While at Georgia, C.A. also served as a Sports Information assistant in the UGA Athletic Department for three years.

C.A.'s passions: "Getting to know God more intimately, having fun with my wife and two boys, reading, the Georgia Bulldogs, and spending time with my Couples Community Group."

On the future of NorthStar: "I think we are just now catching a glimpse of what God has in store for NorthStar. Mark 9:23 says that 'Everything is possible for him who believes,' and NorthStar is a church that believes God! God is taking us on an amazing journey, and I feel blessed to be a small part of it!"

C.A. and his wife, Amy, reside in Kennesaw with their two sons - Chaz and Chandler.

If I could recommend one book to someone: The Life You've Always Wanted by John Ortberg

Favorite Movie: The Shawshank Redemption

In my CD Player...Collective Soul - live with the ASYO

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Terri Reichert
Preschool Director

Terri joined the NorthStar staff in January 2002 as Assistant Preschool Director, and became Director of Preschool in 2005. Terri takes pride in helping to provide an environment where preschoolers can learn about Christ, where parents are comfortable leaving their children, and where volunteers are equipped to teach the children. In addition to overseeing the Preschool area on Sunday mornings, Terri assists with the planning and production of Family Life Live.

Prior to joining the team, she spent 11 years working for Atlanta Gas Light Company as Manager of Rates and Regulation. Terri also holds a degree in Engineering from Auburn University.

Terri's passions: "Spending time with my family and attending youth sporting events."

On the future of NorthStar: "I dream of a day where everyone at NorthStar invests his/her talents in ministry and where financial giving far exceeds the needs of the immediate community."

Terri lives in Acworth with her husband, Jeff. They have two daughters - Kathryn and Karoline - and a son, Kyle.

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Steve Roach
Couples Community Groups Pastor

Steve joined the NorthStar staff in October 2005 as Community Groups Pastor. His role is to lead the way in connecting married couples into small group environments (Community Groups) that are designed to promote spiritual growth, care, encouragement, and the development of meaningful, life-long friendships. He also assists in the research and development of sermons and Community Group Bible study curriculum.

Prior to joining NorthStar, Steve served as the Minister to Adult Small Groups at New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville, Ga. for eight years. Additionally, Steve was one of the original staff members at NorthStar when the church launched in 1997.Steve holds a BBA degree in Management from Georgia State University, as well as a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Along with Bible Study curriculum he has written for New Hope Baptist Church, Steve has also written Bible Study Series for Serendipity House, Worldwide Discipleship Association, SuperWow and IMPACT student camps (Georgia Baptist Convention).

Steve’s passions: I love spending time with my wife and children. I enjoy watching sports and playing golf. I love to take the Word of God and break it down into simple terms so that anyone can understand it and apply it to their lives. I am excited about the opportunity to lead every married couple attending NorthStar to get connected into a Community Group!

On the future of NorthStar: The future of NorthStar will only be limited by the size of our God, the size of our character, the size of our vision, and the size of our commitment!

Steve and his wife, Amy, reside in Acworth with daughters Olivia and Sydney.

If I could recommend one book to someone: God Came Near by Max Lucado

Favorite Movie: Gladiator

In my CD player: See the Morning, by Chris Tomlin

Winfrey Shields
Media Director

Winfrey Shields joined NorthStar’s staff as Technical Director in January 1998. Winfrey’s main responsibilities include providing technical support for NorthStar in the areas of Audio, Lighting, Video and Stage management.

In addition to his role at NorthStar, Winfrey has served as Associate Technical Director for First Baptist Church – Woodstock, as well as Media Director for First Baptist Church in Atlanta. He also owns his own live event production business, and travels the country throughout the year, helping to produce shows featuring some of the biggest names in Christian music.

Winfrey’s passions: “To be a part of something bigger than me! To help train and disciple the team of engineers that help to make up the Media Team.”

On the future of NorthStar: “I hope and pray that NorthStar will continue to be a church of authentic worship, first time relationships with Christ and a church that is not only a great place to learn the Word of God, but that is a fun place to do it!”

Winfrey and his wife, Nichole, and their son, Wesley, reside in Acworth.

Wally and Nidia Walkup
Missions Directors

Wally and Nidia Walkup came on board in January 2006 as Missions Directors for NorthStar Church. Their primary role is to coordinate and develop passionate leaders to spread God's word through Missions across the world.Since 2001, Wally and Nidia have been running Northside Building Services, a commercial roofing business located in Acworth. They will continue in their roles as President and Bookkeeper, respectively, in addition to their Missions responsibilities at the church.

Wally's Passions: Encouraging others to smile and stay positive, family, football & grilling.

Nidia's Passions: To share the Gospel all over the world, family, teaching.

On the future of NorthStar: The potential for reaching and serving our local community and the world for our Lord has never been greater!

Wally and Nidia met while attending Hofstra University, where they were both on athletic scholarships. They have two children, Gregory and Natasha, and reside in Acworth.

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