Derek is a Pathblazer. Like Caleb from the Old Testament, he doesn’t let unchartered territory intimidate, but rather enjoys forging new paths and making new trails for people to traverse in the Kingdom of God.

Derek is originally from the hills of southeastern Ohio. He has a degree in mechanical engineering from The Ohio State University, where he also played football. Upon graduation, he entered the corporate world where he would work for eight years before stepping into full time ministry.

He is now the lead pastor of Christ Fellowship Church in Kingsport, Tennessee, where he lives with his wife, Kate, and three children. In addition to pastoring Christ Fellowship, Derek co-owns Pink Duck Plumbing (https://www.pinkduckplumbing.com/) and True You Leader (https://www.trueyouleader.com/).

Derek delights in the presence of God, and wants nothing more than for others to do the same.

Kim Wheeler is the Adult Ministry Director at Christ Fellowship Church. Before taking a full-time position at Christ Fellowship, she completed a 20 year career as a high school English teacher. She is a life-long resident of Kingsport and a life-long lover of Jesus.

For the past 28 years she has been married to Jason, who truly is her best friend, and they have 2 young adult kids – Abbey & Creed.

Kim is deeply in love with the voice of God and her passion is encouraging others in developing a real, meaningful relationship with Him – a relationship that impacts the Kingdom and brings heaven to earth.