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
Executive and Teaching 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!
CJ Hernandez
Associate Pastor
As a graduate of Southeastern University, C.J. has spent 12 years in ministry and brings a wealth of experience to our team. He also heads up our student ministries, and loves to see our students become contagious believers in Jesus. Joining him is his wife Stacy, and their daughters, Alexys and Emeri. In his spare time he enjoys basketball and any other sports, working out, not eating healthy, and hanging out with students and our tribe in any way possible.
Melissa Onabajo
Worship Director
Melissa is the Music Director of Word of Grace Church. She believes that worship is a lifestyle and prays that the music and arts teams reflect that. 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.
Brant Boatwright
Resident Fixer
A semi-retired aficionado of fine motorsport vehicles and every tool known to mankind, Brant is much more than a maintenance coordinator. We call him the “resident fixer” because all he needs to say is “I fix things.” Sometimes he fixes wells or doors, but often time he’s repairing hearts. Brant brings a lot of heart to every task and never stops looking for opportunities to sow into our team and our tribe!