My wife, Dellie, and I are in our 50’s and have been married over 20 years. We have been blessed with five delightful children: Joseph, Jack, Maria, Tony, and Henry.

I (Derek) became a Christian at an early age and rededicated myself to the faith during my years as a business major at Taylor University after a time of searching for logical reasons to believe the Bible’s claims about Jesus Christ. My wife has taken a more unique road to faith that requires more than one cup of coffee to tell, but was finally baptized while in graduate school earning her master’s degree in counseling. It was while we were in graduate school at Cincinnati Bible Seminary that we met, fell in love and were married. I was working on two degrees in theology and one in education, but more importantly was storing ice cream in Dellie’s freezer just down the hall. We got to know each other over ice cream and the rest is history.

I have served as a minister for over 20 years; first in Kentucky and then in Indiana, and am currently involved in growing Journey Christian Church. Dellie worked as a therapist at St. Francis Hospital for five years (prior to that was in private practice), and currently has a private practice here in Fairbanks as a Licensed Professional Counselor. In July of 2003, we left Indiana and enjoyed a once in a lifetime trip across the country from Indianapolis to Fairbanks, Alaska to start a new congregation – Journey Christian Church.

We would love the opportunity to get to know you and invite you to join us as we continue the exciting new adventure of Journey Christian Church!

Kelsey has eight years of experience teaching and caring for preschool children. She has associates degrees in Early Childhood Education and Biblical Knowledge. She is married to Nathan and mom to their two kids, Zoey and Zeke. After working as the assistant for over a year, Kelsey is excited to continue serving in this ministry!

Jen grew up in Fairbanks and has been married to Kevin for 19 years. They have two children, Jacob (16) and Khloe (10). Jen has been a nurse for over 20 years, has served in Awana, kids church, nursery, VBS, Camp Li-Wa, and a recent mission trip with Journey youth to Kenya. Jennifer is excited to help children grow in their love for Jesus and is thankful for the privilege to serve the Journey family.

Theresia has 22 years of experience teaching and caring for children. She has a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. She has been part of the Journey family since December of 2023. She is passionate about ministering to kids, encouraging them to grow in their knowledge and relationships with the Lord.

Hello! I've lived in Alaska since 2004 with my husband and our son. As a military retiree, I enjoy volunteering my time in Christian ministries and working part time. I am truly blessed to be a part of the Journey family! 

I put my faith in Jesus Christ as a young adult on a logging trail near North Bend, Washington. My first steps into worship ministry began in 1997 at a small church in nearby Issaquah. In 2003, our young family moved to Fairbanks and began to set down roots. My wife, Rebecca is now a public-school teacher and artist. Together, we raised two daughters, Deborah (now Deborah Tanner) and Abigail. It is a joy to be part of the JCC family, and to honor God together through authentic expressions of praise and worship!