We are blessed to have an unbelievable team of wonderful people serving on our staff. With a variety of skills and callings, this eclectic mix brings passion and excellence to every area of our church leadership.
Ryan Young
Lead Pastor
Ryan and his far better half Lara both grew up in Northeast Ohio. Ironically, they did not meet until both attended Southeastern University for their undergraduate studies. Ten years later, they met again when they returned to Ohio and the rest is history. Ryan had spent nearly five years in the United Kingdom working in international marketing and serving the church in Coventry, and Lara had pursued her calling in Medicine. They lead our community with a passion for God’s people growing in His Word and His Ways, and both share a love for local and global outreach. They have a son named Ethan and a daughter named Zoe that keep them on their toes!
Melissa Onabajo
Worship Director
Melissa is the Worship Director of Word of Grace Church. She believes that worship is a lifestyle and leads our music and arts teams to reflect that reality. Melissa graduated with a degree in Music Therapy from Baldwin-Wallace College and had a chance to travel with the African Children’s Choir and sing with the Cleveland Opera. She is married to Segun and they have two children; Tishe and Eni.
Sharon LaStoria
Youth Ministry Coordinator
Sharon is our Youth Ministry Coordinator. She has a heart for seeing our next generation go deeper in their own personal relationship with Jesus, and works as a pair with her husband Dominic to pour into our students on Sundays and throughout the week. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in education from Bowling Green State University and is passionate about partnering with families to help students grow and thrive. She has been a coach, a teacher, and a children’s ministry coordinator previously. Most importantly, she and Dominic are raising 6 youth-aged kids of their own! Together, they’re excited to meet you and your family and come alongside you to help your family grow in Christ.
David Welle
Teaching Pastor
Dr. David Welle has been serving the Lord for over three decades in the Cleveland area after previously ministering on the East Coast. His passion for God’s Word shines through every time he shares with us, and is enriched by both his doctorate in preaching from Gordon Conwell and his spiritual gifts as a teacher. More than the experience and understanding, David is passionate for the work of Jesus in His church, and full of compassion for the people who make up the body.
Lisa Adams
Children's Ministry Coordinator
Lisa and her husband Larry have been serving the Lord in ministry in various ways for the last five decades. She is passionate about seeing her students thrive and cultivating their hearts for Jesus. As a long time music teacher, she is also passionate about instilling a heart for worship in our next generation. She leads our Childrens’ Ministry with a team of wonderful volunteers and together they are praying over and pouring into our children!