Our Mission
Our mission is to attract and connect people to Jesus and his body, so that together we are transformed for his service.
Our Core Values
Acceptance: Striving to be like Christ, we welcome everyone from all walks of life, accepting them where they are.
Compassion: Empathizing, we consider serving a privilege, not a burden. We serve and nurture those in need through loving benevolence.
Community: As Christians, we are called to community. We reap joy through loving fellowship, forgiving and bearing one another’s burdens, which builds relationships and promotes profound life changes.
Spirit-Filled Worship: We praise God and edify one another through passionate singing, prayer and communion. Our worship welcomes the Holy Spirit so that each participant has an encounter with God.
Adaptability: While, remaining true to God’s word, we are not bound by tradition, but are flexible, pragmatic, and creative when it comes to the methods and forms necessary to adapt to an ever-changing culture.
Teaching: We want to be students and teachers of the inspired Word of God in order to transform our lives and the lives of others as we grow in Christ.
Our Leadership Team
Elders
Our elders oversee, shepherd, and serve our congregation in countless ways.
Rich Alexander
Bill Anderson
Dick Doty
Tim Gooden
Ricky Houchens
Worship Pastor
Jared Mann
Jared joined the Avenue community in 2023 originally from Yucaipa, California. A creative and hands-on spirit, Jared is passionate about all things music—whether it's writing, recording, or producing. He’s also a skilled mechanic, motorcycle enthusiast, espresso fanatic, and film photography lover. Most importantly, Jared is deeply committed to pursuing God’s presence through worship. In 2024, Jared married Ashlyn, who plays an big role in our community—especially with Ave Youth.
Lead Pastor
Joel Childers
Joel joined our community in 2021 after relocating with his family from Texas. He and his wife, Emily, have two daughters, Elanor and Naomi. Joel is an avid sports fan who also enjoys spending time outdoors and eating authentic barbecue. He is passionate about preaching, teaching, and helping people encounter Jesus through Scripture.
Secretary
Meagan Gooden
Meagan is serving as the secretary at The Avenue. She and her husband, Jess, have been part of The Avenue Church family since 2012. Together, they are raising five children and staying busy keeping up with the beautiful chaos of family life. Meagan enjoys spending time outdoors and spending time with her family and friends.
