My wife, Dellie, and I are in our 50’s and have been married over 30 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 30 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!

For as long as I can remember (since three years old) Journey has been the church I call home. I have been able to be a part of every season of this now mature church’s life. I lived in Phoenix for a few years but moved back with a beautiful wife, an Undergraduate in Christian Studies and an adorable dog named Tucker. Tara and I are in our 20’s and have a heart for young adults and families. We have twin boys, Scout and Parker, who have LOTS of cousins. We love this church and are glad you are here! 

Wayne and Allison Mowery moved to Fairbanks in 2021 from Pennsylvania looking for real winter. They think they’ve found it! Wayne has served as an Elder, worship leader, musician, and ministry leader at multiple churches over the last 30+ years, and is excited to serve at Journey in a number of ministries and roles. When not at church or work, you can find Wayne spending time with Allison and their dogs doing the many different things they love to do together. 

Jake put his faith in Jesus Christ as a young adult on a logging trail near North Bend, Washington. His first steps into worship ministry began in 1997 at a small church in nearby Issaquah. In 2003, their young family moved to Fairbanks and began to set down roots.His wife, Rebecca is now a public-school teacher and artist. Together, they 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!

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.

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.

Amy has two children: Aubry (20), who is currently attending college back in Tennessee, and Austin (14), who made the exciting move to Alaska with her in 2024. She has been a teacher for over ten years.  Amy is  passionate about helping children learn, grow, and deepen their relationship with Jesus here at Journey!  

Misty has been joyfully married to Charlie for almost 27 years, and together they’ve raised three amazing children—Savannah (25), McKenna (23), and Asher (21)—who’ve all joined them in the great adventure of life in Alaska. With over 25 years of administrative experience, Misty is the go-to person when things need organizing, streamlining, or just a little extra love. She’s passionate about Jesus, family, and finding beauty in the everyday.