2026 SPEAKERS
Main Stage Speakers
These gentlemen have a number of years in ministry between them and are here to help you navigate the joys and challenges that come with a life devoted to ministry.
Dr. J.K. Jones
Former Pastor, Author, and PT Professor at Lincoln Seminary
J.K. has preached and taught these past 50 years with one foot in the church and one foot in the classroom. He currently teaches part-time at Lincoln Seminary through Ozark Christian College and continues to preach here and there, as God gives opportunity. J.K. cannot find the just right words to describe the treasure his family is to him and the gratitude he feels for how God has blessed him all these years, except in the words 'thank-you.'
Rusty George
Lead Pastor of Crossroads Christian Church
Texas
Rusty George is the Lead Pastor at Crossroads Christian Church in Grand Prairie, Texas. Rusty's preaching experience spans over 30 years, starting in Kentucky, moving to California, and currently in Texas. In addition to his role at Crossroads Christian Church, Rusty is a globally recognized speaker, leader, author, and teacher with a focus on making faith simple. Aside from being a loyal Chiefs, Royals, and Lakers fan, Rusty is first and foremost committed to his family. Rusty has been married to his wife, Lorrie, for over thirty years, and they have two adult daughters, Lindsey, and Sidney.
Mark Christian
Christ Church of Oronogo - Senior Minister
Oronogo, MO
“I am at Christ’s Church because God presented me and my family an opportunity that I felt compelled to accept. I teach and help administrate/pastor our staff, the Elders and through them the entire church body engaged in Christ’s Church. I enjoy the openness to learning about God’s word within the congregation, the life-change we get to witness each week together and the people I get to work with each day.” Mark married his wife Heather on August 15, 1987. They have two sons, Alex and Braedan.
Peter Buckland
Christ Church of Oronogo - Executive Minister
“Vana and I came to Christ’s Church in the fall of 1997. Our children instantly loved coming to Christ’s Church and we were pleased that they were so enthusiastic. My role as a professor at Ozark Christian College required me to travel a couple of weekends a month and I wanted our children to like going to church well enough that Vana would not have to cajole or fight them on Sunday mornings. I am an elder and staff member who is keenly aware of spiritual formation, discipleship, education and relationships. I love the willingness of the church to try new methods to reach lost people and grow to be more like Jesus.” Peter married his wife Vana on July 30, 1989. They have three children, Audrey, Austin, and Alex
Dennis Hounshell
Christ Church of Oronogo - Counseling Director
“God saw fit to bring us to Christ’s Church after each of our three children came to Joplin to study at Ozark Christian College. When the door opened to join the staff of Christ’s Church we were extremely thankful. I am so privileged to serve as the Director of Haven Counseling and oversee several recovery ministries (Redemption Recovery, DivorceCare, Single and Parenting). I am especially excited to also serve couples in marriage, premarital, individual, and family counseling through Haven and lead in developing a stronger ministry to families.” Dennis married his wife Carol on June 10, 1989. They have a son, Daniel, and two daughters, Julia and Karin.
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