Pastor Jeff has been leading the congregation as Senior Pastor since January 2019. He’s passionate about living abundantly in Christ and helping others do the same. Before moving to Arizona, he served in Iowa, Minnesota, and Montana, bringing over 26 years of pastoral experience and 36 years in ministry.

Jeff is guided by the Great Commission – to make disciples – and the Great Commandment – to love God and love people. He loves the outdoors, hiking, biking and camping whenever possible. Jeff married Kristen in 1989, and they have three sons, three daughters-in-inlaw, and four grandchildren.

Guiding Verse: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

Matt joined the team at Shepherd of the Hills in August of 2024 after serving congregations over the past 32 years in Illinois, Michigan, Colorado, and most recently, Wisconsin. He graduated from Culver-Stockton College in Canton, MO and Concordia University, Chicago, with degrees in Music Ed (K-12 choral and instrumental), Elementary Ed (K-9) and a Master’s degree in Church Music.

Matt’s primary instrument is voice, but he plays piano, organ, and trumpet as well. He is most passionate about accompanying the primary choir in worship – the congregation – and loves to program music that is sing-able, creative, and that connects hearts, minds, and voices with God’s Word.

Matt is a T.O. (theologian’s offspring) and has lived most of his life in the Midwest. An avid reader (stop by his office and you’ll see why) and outdoorsman who loves to spend time in God’s creation hunting, fishing, hiking – you name it! He is also a model railroader.

But what Matt cherishes most are the shared musical experiences with his talented daughters Bethany, Katie, Ellie and Bekah.

Guiding Verse: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:16-17

Originally from the northwest suburbs of Chicago, Debbie and her husband Tom exchanged winter gloves for oven mitts and moved to Fountain Hills in 2007. Together they have three children, their spouses, and four grandchildren.

Debbie holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Nevada – Reno. She earned further certification from the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) and worked as a designer in the Kitchen and Bath remodeling industry for 28 years.

She is humbled to have been selected to work for Shepherd of the Hills and loves serving the Lord and the congregation in this way.

Guiding Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Born and raised in Minnesota, Roger experienced the beauty of a Midwestern upbringing before transitioning to the West Coast in the mid-1960s. His move to California marked a pivotal chapter in his life, as it was there he met the woman who would become his wife and lifelong partner. Together, they began their family, planting roots in the Golden State. However, the next chapter of their lives brought them to Arizona, where they relocated in 2002, finding a home in the scenic town of Fountain Hills.

Roger’s professional journey led him to his current role as Account Specialist for Shepherd of the Hills, a position that aligns both with his skills and his deep-rooted faith. In this capacity, he handles the intricate management of the church’s financial books and banking, ensuring that its operations run smoothly and efficiently.

While Roger’s career keeps him busy, it is his passion for ministry that truly defines him. His heart is set on seeing a greater number of Fountain Hills residents actively participate in the local church, fostering a stronger sense of community and faith within the town. Roger believes that the church is not just a place of worship but also a vital institution where individuals can find belonging, purpose, and spiritual growth. His vision for the future is ambitious yet deeply rooted in his desire to see Christian values thrive in the community.

Family is at the core of Roger’s life, and he finds great joy in the close-knit relationships he shares with his loved ones. A fun fact that he often shares with others is that when you add up all of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and in-laws, the total number comes to a remarkable 31 ½ family members. This large, loving family is a testament to the strong bonds they share and the legacy of faith that Roger has helped instill across generations.

Guiding Verse: “But as for me and my household we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15b

Amanda has been married to her childhood sweetheart for over two decades, a love story that began in their early years and continues to flourish today. Together, they have built a life centered around their three children, all of whom are passionate about sports. Amanda is no stranger to the hustle and bustle of practices, games, and tournaments, as much of her free time is spent cheering her kids on from the sidelines. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or any other athletic endeavor, she is always there, providing unwavering support and encouragement.

Beyond her busy life as a sports mom, Amanda finds joy in the great outdoors. Camping is one of her favorite activities, offering her family the chance to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature. Whether they’re hiking through the woods, roasting marshmallows by the campfire, or simply enjoying the serenity of a quiet campsite, Amanda treasures these moments with her loved ones. The beach and the ocean are also among her favorite places to be. The sound of the waves, the salty air, and the vast horizon provide her with a sense of peace and renewal. These experiences, whether in the mountains or by the shore, reflect Amanda’s love for nature and the simple pleasures in life.

While Amanda is fully immersed in family life, she also has her sights set on personal growth and future goals. One of her aspirations is to return to school, with the aim of becoming a Medical Assistant and expanding her skill set. This ambition speaks to Amanda’s forward-thinking mindset; she believes in always looking ahead and embracing new opportunities. Her motto, “Always look to the future, never look behind you,” encapsulates her optimistic and proactive approach to life. It serves as a guiding principle in both her personal and professional endeavors, motivating her to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges she may face.

Family, nature, and a positive outlook on life are at the core of who Amanda Hale is. Whether she’s managing her responsibilities at work, attending her kids’ sporting events, or planning the next family camping trip, she approaches every task with enthusiasm and a sense of purpose. As she prepares to embark on her journey back to school, Amanda continues to set an inspiring example for her children and those around her, demonstrating that it’s never too late to pursue new dreams and forge new paths.

In everything she does, Amanda remains focused on what matters most: her family, her future, and the belief that life is meant to be lived fully and with intention. With her strong support system and her optimistic spirit, she is ready to take on whatever the future holds.

Guiding Verse: “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9