Meet Our Team.

  • Dr. Daryl Merrill Jr.

    LEAD PASTOR

    Daryl Merrill Jr. has been a part of Christian Life Church since the beginning. He came on staff in 1992. Daryl is married to his wife since 1994, Leslie. Daryl loves traveling, hiking and photography.

    "God has not forgotten about you!"- Pastor Daryl

  • Jennifer Schmidt

    EXECUTIVE PASTOR

    Jennifer Schmidt joined the Christian Life leadership team in 2013 as the office administrator. Jennifer loves her dog Olive, coffee, and traveling. Jennifer has a Bachelor's degree in Ministerial Studies.

    "Jesus is for you!" - Jennifer

  • Joel Purohit

    YOUTH PASTOR

    Joel Purohit joined the Christian Life leadership team in 2018 as the Youth Pastor. Joel has a Bachelor's degree in Ministerial Studies. Joel loves music, comics, and spending time with loved ones.

    "God's arms are always wide open!" - Pastor Joel

  • Haley Benson

    ADMINSTRATIVE ASSISTANT

    Haley Benson joined the Christian Life leadership team in 2015 as the administrative assistant. She has a Bachelor's degree in Ministerial Studies. Haley loves coffee and crafting!

    "With God nothing is wasted." - Haley

  • Brent Matthews

    CHILDREN’S PASTOR

    Brent joined the Christian Life Leadership team in 2023. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Ministerial Studies from Christian Life College and enjoys spending time with loved ones and all things sports.

    "Welcome, can’t wait to meet you!" - Pastor Brent

  • LeAnn Riveness

    WORSHIP & ARTS PASTOR

    LeAnn Riveness joined the Christian Life leadership team in 2006. She has a Master's degree in Higher Education Leadership. LeAnn loves traveling, taking walks, and bike riding.

    "Keep moving forward, the best is yet to come!" - Pastor LeAnn

  • Jonathan Cruz

    WORSHIP RESIDENT

    Jonathan Cruz joined the Christian Life Leadership team in 2020. He is currently pursuing his bachelors degree in Ministerial Studies. Jonathan loves all things Marvel, music and his dog Almond.

    "Love is distinguishing characteristic of our Christianity" - Jonathan

  • Jeri Olesky

    OFFICE SECRETARY

    Jeri Olesky joined the Christian Life leadership team in 1991 as the Christian Life office secretary. Jeri loves her grandchildren and British mysteries.

    "All things are subject to change!" - Jeri

  • Edgar Alvarado

    MEDIA DIRECTOR

    Edgar Alvarado joined the Christian Life leadership team in 2020. Edgar loves good movies and watching soccer. Edgar is currently completing his master's degree in Theological Studies and Educational Ministries.

    "You are loved and you belong!" - Edgar