Meet the Elder Nominees
During Bryan’s 35 years at The Chapel, his love and care for the people of this church has been reflected in numerous ways. Since 2013, Bryan and his wife Michelle have joyfully served in kids ministry. Before that, Bryan co-led a young families ABF, ran a boys discipleship class for high school freshmen and was a part of The Chapel’s worship team.
Over the years, Bryan has been impacted by godly men who have discipled him. Inspired by these examples, Bryan has discipled many men over the years, both in work and church settings.
Bryan and Michelle have been married since 2001 and have five children: Sophia (19), Olivia (16), Matthew (12), Tay (10) and Ellie (8). Professionally, Bryan has a background in finance and has worked at Cleveland Research Company for 18 years.
Outside of work and ministry, Bryan enjoys watching football, working out, reading, traveling and spending time with his family.
Bryan says that he feels “honored and blessed to even be considered for this role at The Chapel.” He admits to feeling the weightiness of the role as Elder, but He is trusting the calling of the Holy Spirit, the wisdom and discernment of the Elder Board and God’s grace and kindness in his life.
Bryan Merolla
Russ has been a faithful member of The Chapel for many years, serving in various ways alongside his wife Jennifer. They currently lead a Home Group in their home, and in the early years of their marriage, they co-led a young married ABF and hosted a Bible study in their home.
For about ten years, Russ has been meeting one-on-one with men for discipleship. Russ says, “I have grown tremendously in this time, as I hope my discipleship partners have as well. I believe there is no substitute for the personal level of discipleship and deep friendship this affords.”
Russ and Jennifer have been married since 2002 and are blessed with four children: Lily (17), Meriel (15), John (13) and Della (11). When he’s not serving or working, Russ loves rock climbing, hiking, canoeing, backpacking and mountain biking with family and friends. In his professional life, Russ manages data warehousing and business intelligence for a local healthcare company.
Russ says that he is both honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as an elder. He says that this opportunity is “...an absolute privilege to labor for His cause in helping to shepherd the local church. I will continue to seek His guidance, lean into His power and seek out His wisdom.”
Russ Tinkham
What You Should Know
Russ and Bryan’s names were submitted by the congregation for consideration on the Oversight Elder Board. Per our constitution, the current members of the Oversight Elder Board have carefully vetted both of these candidates, have affirmed them as qualified men of godly character and have begun preparing them for their new roles upon their approval.
The Oversight Elder Board is formally recommending them to the congregation and asking you to approve Russ and Bryan’s appointment to the Oversight Elder Board at our annual members meeting on Sunday, January 26.
Our church takes the title and role of an Elder seriously. If you have a concern, or know of any reason why a nominee should not be considered, please contact one of our Elders before January 6. You can talk to any of them in person or email the existing Oversight Elder Board at elders@thechapel.life.
FAQs
What is an elder at The Chapel? What does serving on the Elder Oversight Board entail?
In general, Elders are the church’s ruling shepherds and teachers. They pray for the church. They watch over and lead the church. They give the highest-level oversight of the affairs and resources of the church.
They listen to the Lord and help shape and implement the vision of the church. They are accountable to God for the well-being of the flock and to pray for the sick. They are to be mature, godly examples for the church of a life in Christ well-lived.
How long is their term of service?
The term length for serving on the oversight board is three years. Most will cycle off the board after that time. However, there is a possibility to serve two consecutive terms, if both the Elder and the oversight board so desire. This provides enough time to become acquainted with the needs of the church and Elder responsibilities, while maintaining accountability and safeguards.
What time commitment will be required of our Elders?
As the highest-level leaders in the church, a sacrifice of time will be required to serve in this role. We estimate an average of 7–10 hours a week is required. This includes formal board meetings, sub-group meetings, one-on-one meetings with congregants, discipleship relationships and other serving responsibilities (like teaching an ABF or small group). For most of us, this is no small time commitment in lives that are likely already busy, but, availability is crucial to shepherd the church properly.
What does the Bible say about Elders?
These are some of the key Scripture verses about eldership in the church: 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-9, 1 Peter 5:1-3, Acts 20:28-31, Acts 15:1-2, Hebrews 13:17, 1 Timothy 5:17, Hebrews 13:7, James 3:1, James 5:14-15, Matthew 20:25-28.