Sam has been called a "Nerd or the Lord" by his friends, and it fits. He loves his family, the outdoors, and yes nerdy things like super hero movies, designing collectibles, reading and writing fiction. He has an M. A. in Apologetics from Luther Rice University. He spent 5 years as the senior pastor of the Fountain Christian Church before feeling called to launch The Stone.

Sam is pictured with his wife Heather, an Occupational Therapist, their son, Avery Joe, a gamer, and an artist in the making, their daughter, Leliana, who is obsessed with singing, anime and manga, their cat, Maxi, who has journeyed with Sam and Heather all around the country, including Alaska, and their most recent addition, Potato the pug.

Sam's short testimony in his words. "I grew up knowing that God existed, that Jesus was God, and I knew there were things I should do and other things I shouldn't do. I felt great pressure to do good, but knew I was failing it as I got older. In high school I heard a gospel presentation that finally helped grace click for me. I never could be perfect, I could never save myself, I couldn't even pay God back for being good to me. I could only submit to Him, and then He would save me. It was a great relief to me. I dug in to verify that God and the bible were true, and I know tell folks I'm a Christian because I'm convinced it's true. I have been sharing with others ever since, because I want them to know the truth that can set them free."

sam@thestone.cc

Davey Totty is pictured with his wife Vanessa and daughter Arianna. Davey's passions are worship and prayer. Davey first worked with Sam at the Fountain Christian Church where he quickly became recognized for his outgoing and happy personality. Davey describes himself as a "utility worker" for the Lord. He has served in worship, youth, children's, and office roles at churches and plugs in wherever needed.

Chris comes to us after being the Senior Pastor of Windsor Christian Church in Windsor, IL. He is married to his wife Emily and together they have 4 children; Christopher Jr (6), Raelynn (2), Addison who awaits them in glory, and Analise who is soon to arrive. Chris loves the outdoors, and especially all things firearms. When he has time off he will often spend it with his family, reading a good book, or hiking/biking. He served over 7 years in the IL Army National Guard to include a deployment in 2019 through the beginning of the COVID pandemic in 2020. He is pursuing his M.Div in Theology, Justice, and Social Advocacy, from Denver Seminary. In addition, he is currently writing a book entitled A Roadmap to Faith: Navigating the Questions of the Heart.

Chris’ short testimony in his own words: “I have known God since I can remember. It is truly a testament to God’s enduring commitment and covenantal promise made to those in whom He loves. For me I professed faith at the ripe young age of 5 in a Sunday School class where the message of a God who loves me and wants to have a relationship with me stuck. Although, this does not mean I lived a perfect life, it does mean that I had a God by my side through all of the up’s and downs that life has offered.” His favorite verse and the one he tries to demonstrate in his life is 1 Corinthians 10:31 “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

While we launch, we will receive additional support and accountability from a team made up of our sending partners.