Meet Our TEAM

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR LEADERS & THEIR Roles

Who We Are

Our Team & Leadership

Imagine a collection of imperfect people who love God and love others…always.  Imagine a group that is captivated by The Story of God’s heart for the world we now live.  Imagine a community who will links arms with anyone who tells the message of Jesus.  Imagine a body of believers who serve together, worship together, and live life together.  This is what 242 imagines.  We are pursuing one thing: to be devoted followers of Jesus.  

We are striving to live out Our Values (Acts 2:42) and fulfill Our Mission (Matthew 22:36-40)

Jeff & Echo Manning

Jeff & Echo Manning

Senior Pastors

They both enjoy serving God’s kingdom and leading their community to know God’s enduring love.

As Senior Pastors, Jeff and Echo are responsible for the overall vision and direction of 242. Jeff does the majority of speaking at our Gatherings, while Echo leads us in dynamic worship. They have been happily married for 28 years with three amazing kids. They both are graduates of Kent Christian College in ’96. Together they have dedicated their lives to God’s Calling by using their talents both within and outside the Church.

Some of Jeff’s favorite movies are “The Shawshank Redemption” (though he’s never been to prison), “Ben-Hur” (though his name isn’t Ben and is a He) and “A Bug’s Life” (and his greatest phobia are Wasp/Bees/Yellow Jackets… Echo loves Alligators, shopping (not for alligators), and a passion for music.

LAVON Winkler
Executive Pastor

 

As Executive Pastor at 242, Lavon is responsible for the operations and finances of 242. He assists the Sr Pastor, assures good stewardship and financial accountability, guides the Men’s Ministry, and occasionally speaks at our Gatherings.  Lavon has served as a bi-vocational pastor for several churches and is passionate about helping others grow in their faith and become fervent ambassadors for Jesus Christ.  He is very driven to help others to discover and apply their spiritual gifts so as to live fulfilling, purpose driven lives.

 

Lavon and Lora have been married for 12 amazing years and have four children and eight grandchildren. They are Midwesterners at heart having lived a number of years in Missouri. Both have graduate degrees in non-church related fields, but they have combined decades of experience in church leadership.
Brad and marie Sorrell
Associate Pastors

As Associate Pastors, Brad and Marie handle a plethora of behind the scenes ministry, which enables 242 to keep rolling. Brad also speaks occasionally at our Gatherings.

Brad and Marie started their journey together in 1998. They have 4 amazing kids; Matthew, Cole, Ryker and Shae. They have been in pastoral ministry since 2007 serving in Sunday school, bus ministry, worship, students, administration, and young couples.  They are true servant leaders. They enjoy hunting, camping, and fishing with one another. Brad and Marie have been friends with Jeff and Echo for over 25 years. This includes Wal-Mart tumbles, attempted tennis play, and Frito Lay offerings.

 

CARING HEARTS MINISTRY
CARE TEAM

Our Care Team is dedicated to walking alongside individuals and families during life’s most challenging moments. Whether you’re facing illness, loss, or personal struggles, we are here to provide prayer, encouragement, and practical support. With a heart for compassion and a commitment to serving others, the Care Team offers hospital visits, meals, and one-on-one care to remind you that you are never alone. No matter what season of life you’re in, we’re here to share Christ’s love through presence, prayer, and service. If you’re in need please email us at care@242ministries.life.

HOW WE STAY ACCOUNTABLE

WE ARE LED BY A Pastoral TEAM

Our leadership team works in collaboration with Pastor Jeff to nurture our vision and offer spiritual guidance to our ministry. This team manages the day-to-day ministry and operational aspects of the church.

SAFEGUARDED BY A BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Our B.O.D. is comprised of seasoned executive level leaders with varying backgrounds. They offer financial, staffing, and legal counsel to the church, ensuring accountability in operational and financial decisions.

Fortified by Overseers

These pastors, from varying theological backgrounds, are from respected churches across the nation. These Overseers play a crucial role in protecting 242 and serve as spiritual mentors to Pastor Jeff.