Pastor
Steve Smith
(602) 992-0292
Pastor Steve is a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and licensed minister with a heart for people and a love for God's Word. He and his wife Erica share a heart for discipleship, prayer, and building a loving church community where everyone can belong and grow in their faith. When he's not preaching or mentoring, he enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and serving the community.
Steve graduated from Grand Canyon University and holds bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Christian Studies. He previously served as the Youth Minister here for 15 years prior to serving as Pastor.
Steve has been married to his wife Erica since 2000. They have two adult children and many grandchildren.
Co-Pastor
Jeffrey Hemken
(602) 992-0292
Pastor Jeff Hemken has served Arizona and Illinois churches in ministry since his teens. He has worked with children and youth and in music and education ministries. He currently serves as Co-Pastor and is presently unavailable.\n\nPastor Jeff studied at Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, and International Seminary. He is known for practical teaching that helps people apply Scripture to everyday life.\n\nHe and his wife, Patty, have been married since 1974 and are the proud parents of two adult children.
Treasurer
Bonnie Osborn
(602) 992-0292
In 2012 Bonnie and husband Larry found their way to First Southern Baptist Church of Paradise Valley. Bonnie is retired from a career in Information Technologies, and Larry is an over-the-road truck driver. They love the Lord and their church family.
Pastor's Assistant
Jodi Laursen
Jodi serves as Steve's assistant and helps plan church events. She has a degree in Early Childhood Development and also helps in organizing the church. She is very resourceful and can assist anyone with whatever they need. She is on the church board to to support and assist with all of the churches needs.
Security & Maintenance
Frank Gortarez
Frank serves the church in security and maintenance, helping care for the campus and support the ongoing needs of the property. Frank is part of the board and assists in further development and maintenance and keeping things safe.
Technology & Sound
Patrick Laursen
Patrick serves in technology and sound, supporting the church's technical systems, media needs, and service audio. He is part of the board and helps in expanding the church technology of the church. He also helps with the social media channels to allow people to connect and communicate through things like YouTube and KorStream. He also grew up in this church
Youth Leader
Erica Smith
Wife to Steve Smith, 2 grown adult kids and Youth Leader to our current youth. Board Member of the church. Event planner, church care taker.