Our team
Who is on the team?
The church is a community of people where the gospel—the good news of Jesus—is made visible. Therefore, church planting is a team effort!
A team of imperfect people humbly walking in grace together.
In order to seek God’s heart and reach a diverse community in Chicago it’s going to take a diversely gifted, multiethnic, and intergenerational team of men and women serving together. As we prepare to launch, we invite you to join our team as we grow together, live on mission, and serve our community.
Lead Church Planter
Samuel Copeland
Samuel is married to Emily, and together they have three daughters: Ella (6), Eva (4), and Emilia (2). Samuel began his career in nonprofit and development work overseas, utilizing his undergrad in Business Administration. After sensing a call to pastoral ministry, he earned an MDiv from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
He has a passion for helping others deepen their affections for Jesus, grow in Christ, and worship God in all of life. Samuel is also a huge fan of Liverpool, guitars, and ice cream.
Advisory team
Who walks with us
Garden City is led by our lead pastor and is currently supported by an external Advisory Team of mentors, pastors, and church planters. Our Advisory Team is intentionally multiethnic and missionary minded.
Jon Kelly
Lead Pastor
Chicago West Bible Church
Chicago, IL
Pete Schemm
Lead Pastor
Cave Spring Baptist
Roanoke, VA
Allen James
Missions Pastor
Cave Spring Baptist
Roanoke, VA
Kent Steiner
Outreach Pastor
Chicago West Bible Church
Chicago, IL
After a season of initial growth and raising up of qualified leaders, Garden City will be led by a multiethnic, congregationally-affirmed leadership team of pastor-elders. Additionally, a team of men and women will serve as ministry team leaders (deacons) in various essential ministry areas.