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Pastors

AUSTIN SHAW

Senior Pastor, Elder
Austin is a native of Northeast Ohio where he was raised by Christian parents. He received his theological education in England, earning a master's degree and a PhD from the University of Oxford. Prior to coming to Providence, Austin served nine years in a local church ministering to college students and young adults, overseeing the internship program for the training of future ministers and serving as the teaching pastor.

Austin holds a fellowship in the Center for Pastor Theologians, a group of church leaders committed to the interface of theology and local church ministry. In this vein, he remains connected to local universities as an adjunct professor of church history.


Curriculum Vitae for Dr. Austin J. Shaw

In 2011, Austin married Mallory, also a native of Northeast Ohio, and they are delighted to be raising three sons, Graham (b. 2015), Andrew (b. 2018), and James (b. 2024). In his spare time, Austin is typically reading or jogging.

DENNY ABBUHL

Executive Pastor
Denny is a native of Portage County, where he was raised by Christian parents. He has an undergraduate degree in Accounting from Youngstown State University, an MBA from Kent State University, and is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive). Prior to joining the Providence staff in 2022, Denny had a 25+ year career in the corporate sector, serving midsized companies as CFO and COO. 


Denny has served in ministry over the years on the board of Urban Vision (Akron) and Westside Christian Academy (Westlake), leading and teaching ABFs and various Bible studies (The Chapel, Akron). Since joining Providence Church in 2011, he has taught Adult Workshops, co-led small groups, served in Youth Ministry, chaired the Elder Board, and traveled to Central Asia and the Middle East to encourage and equip the saints in house churches.

In 1995, Denny married Becky, and they are blessed with five sons, three daughters-in-law, and two grandchildren. Denny is a slow backpacker and a terrible golfer, but he enjoys both immensely.

MICHAEL CAMPBELL

Pastor of Missions & Outreach
Michael’s heart for ministry was shaped through serving in a local church plant beginning in 2011 as a Family Pastor, where he and his wife, Tiffany, were deeply formed in their love for God’s Church and His mission. This led him to pursue a B.S. in Christian Leadership from Liberty University. After moving to Cleveland in 2020, he continued serving as a Marriage and Family Pastor and later joined the staff at Providence in 2024.

Michael cares deeply about helping the Church see that the mission of God is not reserved for a select few, but is part of the everyday life of every believer, both domestically and internationally.

Michael married Tiffany in 2012, and together they have three boys: Noah (b. 2014), Jameson (b. 2016), and Judah (b. 2019). The Campbells also have a strong heart for foster care children and their families. In his free time, Michael enjoys being with his family, reading, following sports, and is a lifelong New York Giants fan.

DAN FOLDESY

Pastor of Care
Dan is a lifelong west-sider and has been a Christ-follower for over forty years. While attending Cleveland State University, Dan earned his B.A. (Elementary Education) and M.Ed. (Counseling). He then earned an M.Ed. (Administration) from Baldwin Wallace University. He invested over 35 years as an educator and counselor before joining the pastoral team at Providence.

Dan and his wife, Kathy, were founding members of Providence Church and were the first youth leaders. Over the years, Dan has served on the elder board, led several small groups, taught adults, youth, and children at various times on Sunday morning.

Dan and Kathy enjoy spending time with their adult daughter, son, and daughter-in-law when they are in town. During his downtime, Dan can be found golfing, spinning, running, cycling, rowing–but mostly golfing.

JOHN MATTHEWS

Pastor of Discipleship & Young Adults’ Ministries
John grew up in Middleburg Heights, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Grove City College. He later completed a Master of Divinity at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC. Before moving to Charlotte for seminary, John worked full-time at a Cleveland-based insurance company. He is grateful to now serve on staff at Providence.

While at Grove City, John met his wife Kate, and they were married in November 2020. They have a daughter, Ruthie (b. 2024), and are expecting a son in August 2026. In his free time, John enjoys reading a wide range of books, watching and playing sports, hiking, and watching Survivor with Kate and friends.

BRIAN PACHINGER

Associate Pastor
Brian is a lifelong Northeast Ohioan, attending Cleveland State University (B.A. in Religion) and Columbia International University for his Master of Divinity. Brian first came to Providence as an elementary student, attending with his believing family until 2011. 


Brian was on staff here at Providence in student ministry and adult ministry from 2004 to 2011 when he was sent out by the church to serve in the kingdom of God. Brian then served for 10 years in a local church, first in student ministry and later as a campus pastor. He is passionate about ministry and also serves on the board of The Garden Christian Academy in the Clark/Fulton neighborhood in Cleveland. 


Brian and his wife, Sara, have three children Paige, Rebekah, and Caleb.

In his free time, Brian loves the outdoors–hiking, backpacking, hunting, and boating.

JIM PAVKOV

Pastor of Worship Ministry
Growing up in a Christian family, Jim trusted in Christ at a young age. He received a B.A. in Marketing from Baldwin-Wallace University and M.A. in Christian Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Jim developed a passion for ministry and began leading worship during his time serving on the student leadership team of CRU at BW.

Additionally, Jim has always lived in Northeast Ohio, and he met his wife Ciara in a local young adult ministry. They were married in 2013 and have four children: Josiah (b. 2017), Ella (b. 2019), Charlotte (b. 2023), and Jacob (b. 2025). Jim loves sports, music, coffee, hiking, traveling, reading, and is an avid New England Patriots fan.

CALEB WATSON

Pastor of Student Ministries
Caleb is married to his wife, Emily, and they have two children, Theo and Darcy Mae. He has a deep passion for communicating God’s word and helping people understand and apply it.

Caleb is an academic glutton for punishment. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in pastoral ministry from Moody Bible Institute. He holds a second master’s degree from Liberty University in Pastoral Counseling and a doctorate in preaching through Northern Seminary. 


Likes: Talking about idols, the DISC personality test, and woodworking.

Dislikes: colorful (healthy) food and wet feet.

ELDERS

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MIKE FERRELL

Elder Chairman
Mike participated in many churches early in his life but discovered the truth of Jesus Christ through a Promise Keepers event in 1995....
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Mike participated in many churches early in his life but discovered the truth of Jesus Christ through a Promise Keepers event in 1995. He received a new life through Jesus' saving grace later that year. Mike and his wife Julie started attending Providence Church in 2001 and have two children, Claire and Graham. He faithfully serves in our Men's Ministry, as a small group leader, and in discipleship groups.
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JEREMY DAMSTRA

Elder
Jeremy was raised in a Christian home and always considered himself a “religious” person. However, it wasn’t until studying the books of Isaiah...
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Jeremy was raised in a Christian home and always considered himself a “religious” person. However, it wasn’t until studying the books of Isaiah and Romans that he truly understood his need for a Savior. In 2016, he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. Jeremy and his wife, Liz, are proud parents of four children and enjoy serving together in Children’s Ministry and hosting a Small Group.
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MATTHEW
ENGLEHART

Elder
Matt was saved by Christ in 1987. He and his wife Elizabeth were married in 1988, and have been attending Providence since 2020. They have been blessed...
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Matt was saved by Christ in 1987. He and his wife Elizabeth were married in 1988, and have been attending Providence since 2020. They have been blessed with two sons, two daughters, and four grandsons. Matt serves as a small group leader and a member of the worship team. His favorite verse is Psalm 37:4, “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.”
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ALAN HERR

Elder
Alan was raised in a church-going family but never understood the grace of Jesus Christ until studying The Ragamuffin Gospel in 2003....
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Alan was raised in a church-going family but never understood the grace of Jesus Christ until studying The Ragamuffin Gospel in 2003. Alan and his wife, Amy, have been attending Providence Church since 2007. They have been blessed with two daughters, Elizabeth (b. 2008) and Danielle (b. 2011). He has served in the Children's Ministry, as a Small Group leader, and has led men's discipling groups.
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SEAN MOORHEAD

Elder
Sean was born and raised in Ohio and has attended Providence Church since 2002. While he considered himself...
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Sean was born and raised in Ohio and has attended Providence Church since 2002. While he considered himself a spiritual person, it wasn't until the birth of his son in 1994 that he surrendered to Christ. Sean met his wife Debbie during their freshman year at the University of Michigan and have been married since 1987. They have two adult children, Alex and Becca, who have "grown and flown." Sean has a heart for discipleship and currently uses the Practical Christian Living (PCL) materials.
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AUSTIN SHAW

Senior Pastor, Elder
Austin is a native of Northeast Ohio where he was raised by Christian parents. He received his theological...
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Austin is a native of Northeast Ohio where he was raised by Christian parents. He received his theological education in England, earning a master's degree and a PhD from the University of Oxford. Prior to coming to Providence, Austin served nine years in a local church ministering to college students and young adults, overseeing the internship program for the training of future ministers and serving as the teaching pastor.
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STEVE TRENTA

Elder
Steve Trenta has attended Providence Church since spring 2003 and accepted Christ at a Providence...
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Steve Trenta has attended Providence Church since spring 2003 and accepted Christ at a Providence Men's Ministry retreat on September 7, 2003. He is happily married to Melinda and is the proud dad of Will and Anna Grace. He participates in Men's Ministry, International Student Ministry, and leads a Small Group. His favorite verse is James 4:7-8.
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Deacons

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JOE FLINNER

Deacon of Finance
Joe was born and raised in Holmes County by Christian parents and trusted in Christ at a young age...
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Joe was born and raised in Holmes County by Christian parents and trusted in Christ at a young age. As a teenager, Joe developed a passion for investing and planning, and after college, he began his career in finance. He and his wife, Julie, began attending Providence in 2007 where he began to mature in his faith. Joe has served in Children's, Student, and Men's Ministry and is a small group leader. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time at the lake and watching Browns games with his wife and three children.
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VANCE WILLIAMS

Deacon of Care
Vance was led to Christ through the “wordless book” during summer camp at the age of eight...
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Vance was led to Christ through the "wordless book" during summer camp at the age of eight. Slowly but surely, the Lord has been faithfully sanctifying him–through his formative years as a pastor's kid, four years of study at Grace College, and many years of growth since. A native of Indiana, Vance has been married to Linda for over 30 years and they have three kids: Madeleine, Roan, and Finn. Providence has been their church home since 2013. In this body and others, Vance has served by caring for newcomers and senior citizens, singing in choirs, and has helped lead an adult small group.
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CJ VANWINGERDEN

Deacon of Facilities
CJ was born and raised in northern Ohio. He became a follower of Jesus at age 16 after...
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CJ was born and raised in northern Ohio. He became a follower of Jesus at age 16 after the faithful witness of his parents and local church. After attending college, he returned home to begin his career in business. He was married and began attending Providence in 2007. He has served in Children's and Student Ministry as well as a small group leader. Together with his wife, they enjoy raising their school-aged children.
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LINDA
VOLOSHEN

Deaconess of Care
More information coming soon.



CJ was born and raised in a northern Ohio. He became of follower of Jesus at age 16 after the faithful witness of his parents and local church. After attending college, he returned home to begin his career in business. He was married and began attending Providence in 2007. He has served within children's and student ministries as well as a small group leader. Together with his wite, they enjoy raising their school-aged children.
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STAFF

LISA BARACSKAI

Director of Women's Ministry
Growing up in Avon, Lisa met and married Tom in 1987. She is the mother of five adult children and three...
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Growing up in Avon, Lisa met and married Tom in 1987. Together they have five adult children and three grandchildren. She has been attending Providence since 2015 and has been on staff since 2019. She enjoys helping people get connected at Providence. Lisa also loves cheering on the Cavs, reading, kayaking, and studying the Bible with other women.
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KYLE BIRCH

Director of Communications
Kyle grew up in Avon Lake and received two bachelor's degrees in Film and Communications from Cleveland...
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Kyle grew up in Avon Lake and received two bachelor's degrees in Film and Communications from Cleveland State University. His family joined Providence in 1995, and he has served in various ministries. In August 2020, Kyle married his wife Rachel, whom he met in youth group in 2013. Together they have two sons, Wyatt and Everett. In his spare time, he enjoys baseball, coffee, and playing guitar.
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KRISTINE BORNS

Children's Ministry Coordinator
Kristine graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s in psychology and addictions counseling...
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Kristine graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and addictions counseling and began working with children. She came to Providence in 2019 alongside her husband Aaron, and their two daughters, Delta and Joanie. Kristine enjoys nature, thrifting, crafting, and loads of family time.
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JONATAN
COLLAZO

Youth Ministry Coordinator
Jonatan grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and moved to Northeast Ohio at age 13. He earned a business...
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Jonatan grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and moved to Northeast Ohio at age 13. He earned a degree in business management from Lorain County Community College. In the summer of 2022, he interned at Providence and became a member shortly afterward. In September 2023, Jonatan married his wife, Rachel, whom he met at a young adults’ Bible study in 2020. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball, volleyball, and guitar.
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MICHELLE DUNCAN

Director of Administration
Michelle is Ohio born and raised. She graduated from Cleveland State University with two Bachelor's...
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Michelle is Ohio born and raised. She graduated from Cleveland State University with two bachelor’s degrees, one in International Relations and the other in Political Science. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, biking, traveling and making memories with her husband and two children.
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DAWN GERENT

Director of Children's Ministries
Dawn is an Ohio transplant after being raised in Michigan, graduating from Taylor University, and marrying her...
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Dawn is an Ohio transplant after being raised in Michigan, graduating from Taylor University, and marrying her college sweetheart, Rick. Together they raised six children and now have three grandchildren. The Gerents began attending Providence in 2004, and in 2008 Dawn joined the staff, where she oversees our Children’s Ministry. Reading, beach time, thrifting, and traveling are some of her favorite pastimes.
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TIA GIMBEN

Administrative Assistant
Tia was born and raised in Vermilion, Ohio. After living in both Florida and Washington in her early 20s, she....
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Tia was born and raised in Vermilion, Ohio. After living in both Florida and Washington in her early 20s, she decided to move back home to be with family again in 2019. Since returning to Ohio, Tia has become a certified birth doula from DONA International, supporting families through their labor, delivery, and early postpartum journey. During Tia’s downtime, she enjoys gardening, being with her family, thrifting, and baking.
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SUE KIESEL

Bookkeeper
Sue is a native of Rochester, NY where she was raised by Christian parents She received her Bachelor of....
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Sue is a native of Rochester, NY where she was raised by Christian parents. She received her Bachelor of Science from Geneva College. Sue has been married to Pete, a native of Buffalo, since 1994, and they have three adult children. In her spare time, she plans events for International Student Ministry, serves the children’s ministry with her husband, and loves to crochet.
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SARA MERICAL

Accountant
Sara and her husband, Scott, have attended Providence since 2006. She has served on...
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Sara and her husband, Scott, have attended Providence since 2006. She has served on the worship team and in Women's Ministry and has been on staff as the church's accountant since 2022. Sara holds bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Management Information Systems from Miami University. Whether traveling, enjoying the outdoors, or laughing around the dinner table, Sara's joy is making memories with her husband and their two daughters.
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RICK SIMMERER

Lead AVL Tech
Rick has served Providence since he and his family joined in 2003, having put his trust in Christ just a few years...
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Rick has served Providence since he and his family joined in 2003, having put his trust in Christ just a few years earlier. He joined the staff in 2016. He is a proud husband of nearly forty-five years, father of three, and grandfather of four. Rick is a self-proclaimed “Jack of all trades and master of none” who loves family vacations, house projects, and grilling out.
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SETH SPRAGUE

Facilities Manager
Seth was raised in North Ridgeville and began attending Providence in 2023. In his spare time...
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Seth was raised in North Ridgeville and began attending Providence in 2023. In his spare time, he enjoys taking on home improvement projects, but his greatest joy and favorite pastime is spending quality time with his wife, Beth, and son. He is proud to be on staff at Providence Church and enjoys working alongside the team serving Christ together.
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NATE
WASHBURN

Pastoral Resident
Nate was born and raised in Berea. He was pursued and saved by the Lord at age 13, which is also when he...
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Nate was born and raised in Berea. He was pursued and saved by the Lord at age 13, which is also when he felt the call to pastoral ministry. He went on to receive his bachelor's in Pastoral Studies from Moody Bible Institute in December 2024 and has been attending Providence ever since. In Nate’s free time, he enjoys playing basketball and volleyball, coffee, and classic novels.
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JOB OPPORTUNITES

Looking for a place to use your gifts and make a difference for God's Kingdom? Check out our current job openings. From ministry roles to behind-the-scenes opportunities, there’s a spot for you to grow, serve, and be part of what God is doing here at Providence Church.We want every team member to wholeheartedly align with our beliefs and values. Before applying for any position, we encourage you to take time to read through them. You can explore them in detail here.

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