Rev. Dr. William Eugene Crowder, Jr. serves as Regional Minister and President of the future Living Waters Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). A lifelong leader in the church, he brings deep pastoral experience, a commitment to justice, and a passion for community transformation to his role. His ministry is shaped by a conviction that the church is called to be both spiritually grounded and actively engaged in the life of the world.
Dr. Crowder has served congregations in a variety of pastoral and leadership roles and is widely respected for his ability to build partnerships, strengthen congregations, and lead with vision and integrity. He most recently served as Senior Pastor of Historic Park Manor Christian Church in Chicago, where his leadership has helped advance significant community development initiatives, including affordable senior housing and violence-prevention efforts in partnership with civic and faith leaders.
He is deeply engaged in the wider life of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), serving as President of the National Convocation Board of Trustees and previously as Chair of the Committee on Ministry for the Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan region. His leadership reflects a commitment to faithful governance, public witness, and collaborative ministry across the church.
Dr. Crowder holds a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Memphis Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Dr. Stephanie Buckhanon Crowder, Full Professor of New Testament at Chicago Theological Seminary, are the parents of two adult sons. Together, they share a deep commitment to faith, education, and service.
Dr. Crowder has served congregations in a variety of pastoral and leadership roles and is widely respected for his ability to build partnerships, strengthen congregations, and lead with vision and integrity. He most recently served as Senior Pastor of Historic Park Manor Christian Church in Chicago, where his leadership has helped advance significant community development initiatives, including affordable senior housing and violence-prevention efforts in partnership with civic and faith leaders.
He is deeply engaged in the wider life of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), serving as President of the National Convocation Board of Trustees and previously as Chair of the Committee on Ministry for the Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan region. His leadership reflects a commitment to faithful governance, public witness, and collaborative ministry across the church.
Dr. Crowder holds a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Memphis Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Dr. Stephanie Buckhanon Crowder, Full Professor of New Testament at Chicago Theological Seminary, are the parents of two adult sons. Together, they share a deep commitment to faith, education, and service.
Rev. Eli Rolón Jeong is an ethicist, theologian, and minister whose work centers on helping individuals and communities live more justly, thoughtfully, and faithfully in a complex world. He brings a deep love of theology, justice, and conversation to his role, along with a pastoral presence shaped by curiosity, listening, and care.
Eli serves congregations by offering support during seasons of change, discernment, conflict, and growth. He is especially passionate about work that helps churches reflect more deeply on justice, ethics, and faithful public witness. His ministry often lives at the intersection of theology and practice—asking not only what we believe, but how we live those beliefs together.
Eli coordinates Pro-Reconciliation & Anti-Racism (PRAR) and Service–Learning–Advocacy–Mission (SLAM) ministries, where he supports congregations in meaningful engagement with justice, reconciliation, and community-based action. He leads our ministries to children, youth, and young adults and partners with Rev. Clayton Summers at Walter Scott Camp & Learning Center, helping shape programming connected to creation care, social responsibility, spiritually grounded leadership.
Alongside his work responsibilities, Eli can often be found enjoying continental philosophy, engaging in rich theological conversations, exploring new recipes, finding joy in analog rituals like handwriting with fountain pens and listening to music on vinyl, appreciating tattoos as an art form and craft, and catching up on the latest Ninja Turtles comics.
Eli serves congregations by offering support during seasons of change, discernment, conflict, and growth. He is especially passionate about work that helps churches reflect more deeply on justice, ethics, and faithful public witness. His ministry often lives at the intersection of theology and practice—asking not only what we believe, but how we live those beliefs together.
Eli coordinates Pro-Reconciliation & Anti-Racism (PRAR) and Service–Learning–Advocacy–Mission (SLAM) ministries, where he supports congregations in meaningful engagement with justice, reconciliation, and community-based action. He leads our ministries to children, youth, and young adults and partners with Rev. Clayton Summers at Walter Scott Camp & Learning Center, helping shape programming connected to creation care, social responsibility, spiritually grounded leadership.
Alongside his work responsibilities, Eli can often be found enjoying continental philosophy, engaging in rich theological conversations, exploring new recipes, finding joy in analog rituals like handwriting with fountain pens and listening to music on vinyl, appreciating tattoos as an art form and craft, and catching up on the latest Ninja Turtles comics.
Rev. Dr. Alex Ruth serves as Associate Regional Minister for Transformation, walking alongside congregations and clergy as they discern how God is calling them to grow, adapt, and live more fully into their shared ministry. He brings a steady, thoughtful presence to this work, shaped by a deep love for the church and a belief that transformation is both faithful and necessary in changing times.
Alex was called to this role in November 2021 and brings extensive experience in congregational leadership, coaching, and pastoral formation. He holds a Master of Divinity from Phillips Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry in Congregational Leadership from Bethel Seminary. In addition to his regional role, Alex serves as Co-Director of Disciples Men and teaches with the Center for Ministry and Lay Training at Phillips, supporting leaders as they develop skills for healthy, adaptive ministry.
At the heart of Alex’s work is a desire to help churches and leaders listen for God’s movement in the midst of transition. He is especially passionate about accompanying congregations through seasons of discernment and change, and about helping the church imagine new ways of being the Body of Christ together—particularly in this pivotal moment of regional merger and shared ministry.
Alex lives in Springfield, Illinois, and is a member of Parkway Christian Church. He and his high school sweetheart, Jennie, have two adult children, Mason and Kaia. Outside of ministry, Alex enjoys cooking, traveling, hiking, canoeing, woodworking, cycling, running, and swimming. One of his guiding scriptures is Psalm 1:1–3, a reminder of the deep, steady growth that comes from being rooted in God’s ways.
Alex was called to this role in November 2021 and brings extensive experience in congregational leadership, coaching, and pastoral formation. He holds a Master of Divinity from Phillips Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry in Congregational Leadership from Bethel Seminary. In addition to his regional role, Alex serves as Co-Director of Disciples Men and teaches with the Center for Ministry and Lay Training at Phillips, supporting leaders as they develop skills for healthy, adaptive ministry.
At the heart of Alex’s work is a desire to help churches and leaders listen for God’s movement in the midst of transition. He is especially passionate about accompanying congregations through seasons of discernment and change, and about helping the church imagine new ways of being the Body of Christ together—particularly in this pivotal moment of regional merger and shared ministry.
Alex lives in Springfield, Illinois, and is a member of Parkway Christian Church. He and his high school sweetheart, Jennie, have two adult children, Mason and Kaia. Outside of ministry, Alex enjoys cooking, traveling, hiking, canoeing, woodworking, cycling, running, and swimming. One of his guiding scriptures is Psalm 1:1–3, a reminder of the deep, steady growth that comes from being rooted in God’s ways.
Rev. Cassie Sexton-Riggs serves as Associate Regional Minister for Clergy and Lay Education, supporting clergy and congregations across Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin through education, formation, and ongoing development. Her work focuses on strengthening leaders for sustainable ministry and creating accessible opportunities for learning, reflection, and growth across the region.
Cassie coordinates the School for Ministry and helps guide continuing education opportunities for both clergy and lay leaders. Her ministry centers on discipleship, spiritual formation, and leadership development, with particular attention to helping individuals and congregations navigate change with intention and care. She also works with regional partners to support healthy governance, thoughtful leadership practices, and faithful engagement with the life of the church.
Trained as a facilitator in Transformative Community Conferencing and active in anti-racism work, Cassie brings a steady, relational approach to her ministry. She has contributed to several devotional and formation resources, including Fellowship of Prayer and Rest & Resilience (Chalice Press), as well as A Journey with Hope for FCC Quincy, and will contribute to the 2026 Just Women Bible study focused on flourishing. She is currently working on her Doctor of Ministry degree at Phillips Theological Seminary.
Cassie lives in Springfield, Illinois with her husband, Michael. They enjoy hiking, cooking, collecting vinyl records, and spending time with their two rescue cats, Dewey and Domino.
Cassie coordinates the School for Ministry and helps guide continuing education opportunities for both clergy and lay leaders. Her ministry centers on discipleship, spiritual formation, and leadership development, with particular attention to helping individuals and congregations navigate change with intention and care. She also works with regional partners to support healthy governance, thoughtful leadership practices, and faithful engagement with the life of the church.
Trained as a facilitator in Transformative Community Conferencing and active in anti-racism work, Cassie brings a steady, relational approach to her ministry. She has contributed to several devotional and formation resources, including Fellowship of Prayer and Rest & Resilience (Chalice Press), as well as A Journey with Hope for FCC Quincy, and will contribute to the 2026 Just Women Bible study focused on flourishing. She is currently working on her Doctor of Ministry degree at Phillips Theological Seminary.
Cassie lives in Springfield, Illinois with her husband, Michael. They enjoy hiking, cooking, collecting vinyl records, and spending time with their two rescue cats, Dewey and Domino.
Rev. Dr. Tom Hyoung Chel Yang serves as the North American Pacific/Asian Disciples (NAPAD) Minister for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the Illinois and Wisconsin Region. In this role, he supports and connects congregations and leaders across the region, with a particular focus on strengthening relationships, honoring cultural identity, and fostering meaningful engagement within the wider church.
Rev. Yang has served in the CCIW region for the past seven years, cultivating a ministry centered on bridge-building, mutual understanding, and shared leadership across cultures. His work reflects a deep commitment to helping communities connect across difference while remaining rooted in their own histories and traditions.
In addition to his regional role, Rev. Yang serves as Pastor of the Korean Christian Church in Springfield, Illinois, where he has faithfully led and nurtured the congregation for many years. He holds a Master of Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Chicago Theological Seminary.
Rev. Yang lives in Prospect Heights, Illinois with his wife, Sue. Together they enjoy time with their two adult children, Thomas and Julie, and delight in their grandchildren, Tae Yoon and Ellie. Outside of ministry, he finds grounding through walking, yoga, and meditation, and enjoys reading obituaries as a way of reflecting on life, legacy, and the stories that shape us.
Rev. Yang’s ministry is rooted in relationship, hospitality, and deep listening. He is committed to creating spaces where people can share their stories, grow in faith, and celebrate the richness of the NAPAD community within the wider life of the church.
Rev. Yang has served in the CCIW region for the past seven years, cultivating a ministry centered on bridge-building, mutual understanding, and shared leadership across cultures. His work reflects a deep commitment to helping communities connect across difference while remaining rooted in their own histories and traditions.
In addition to his regional role, Rev. Yang serves as Pastor of the Korean Christian Church in Springfield, Illinois, where he has faithfully led and nurtured the congregation for many years. He holds a Master of Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Chicago Theological Seminary.
Rev. Yang lives in Prospect Heights, Illinois with his wife, Sue. Together they enjoy time with their two adult children, Thomas and Julie, and delight in their grandchildren, Tae Yoon and Ellie. Outside of ministry, he finds grounding through walking, yoga, and meditation, and enjoys reading obituaries as a way of reflecting on life, legacy, and the stories that shape us.
Rev. Yang’s ministry is rooted in relationship, hospitality, and deep listening. He is committed to creating spaces where people can share their stories, grow in faith, and celebrate the richness of the NAPAD community within the wider life of the church.
Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe serves as Disciples Women Ministries Coordinator for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Illinois and Wisconsin and is also Pastor of First Christian Church in Henry, Illinois. Her ministry is shaped by a deep commitment to spiritual formation, justice, and supporting women as they grow in faith, leadership, and voice.
Beth’s work with Disciples Women includes coordinating regional ministry and developing Bible study resources that engage themes such as lament, self-care, love of neighbor, and the work of the Holy Spirit. She also serves as editor of Communicare and has contributed to regional and national leadership through serving as editor of Just Women from 2023-2026, leading workshops, retreats, and speaking engagements focused on spiritual practices, prayer, and faithful living.
With a background in mental health and pastoral ministry, Beth brings a thoughtful, grounded presence to her work. She has served in a variety of regional leadership roles, including on the Committee for Ministry and the Pro-Reconciliation/Anti-Racism team, and regularly leads gatherings centered on reflection, renewal, and resilience.
Beth lives in Bloomington, Illinois with her husband, Mark. They have two children, two granddaughters, and a much-loved labradoodle. She enjoys reading, quilting, listening to music, and cooking for family and friends. Grounded in contemplative prayer, Beth is passionate about justice, spiritual growth, and empowering women to claim their voices and gifts. And yes—Disney is one of her happy places.
Beth’s work with Disciples Women includes coordinating regional ministry and developing Bible study resources that engage themes such as lament, self-care, love of neighbor, and the work of the Holy Spirit. She also serves as editor of Communicare and has contributed to regional and national leadership through serving as editor of Just Women from 2023-2026, leading workshops, retreats, and speaking engagements focused on spiritual practices, prayer, and faithful living.
With a background in mental health and pastoral ministry, Beth brings a thoughtful, grounded presence to her work. She has served in a variety of regional leadership roles, including on the Committee for Ministry and the Pro-Reconciliation/Anti-Racism team, and regularly leads gatherings centered on reflection, renewal, and resilience.
Beth lives in Bloomington, Illinois with her husband, Mark. They have two children, two granddaughters, and a much-loved labradoodle. She enjoys reading, quilting, listening to music, and cooking for family and friends. Grounded in contemplative prayer, Beth is passionate about justice, spiritual growth, and empowering women to claim their voices and gifts. And yes—Disney is one of her happy places.
Rev. Clayton Summers serves as Resident Minister and Caretaker of Walter Scott Camp & Learning Center, where he tends both the land and the life of the camp with deep care and attentiveness. His ministry is rooted in creation care, hospitality, and the belief that tending the earth is an essential expression of loving one’s neighbor. Clayton works closely with regional staff to support camp programming, sustainability efforts, and the daily rhythms that make Walter Scott a place of rest, learning, and renewal.
Clayton holds a Master of Divinity from Lexington Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Illinois, bringing both theological grounding and practical skill to his work. He is passionate about stewardship, repair, and helping people connect more deeply with the land and with one another.
Clayton lives at Walter Scott Camp with his wife, Alix, and their young son, Taliesin. When he’s not caring for the grounds or dreaming up new projects, he enjoys woodworking, Dungeons & Dragons, fixing things, advocating for climate justice, and—on any given day—chasing after the camp’s resident goats. He finds deep joy in the slow, faithful work of tending sacred space and helping others encounter God through creation.
Clayton holds a Master of Divinity from Lexington Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Illinois, bringing both theological grounding and practical skill to his work. He is passionate about stewardship, repair, and helping people connect more deeply with the land and with one another.
Clayton lives at Walter Scott Camp with his wife, Alix, and their young son, Taliesin. When he’s not caring for the grounds or dreaming up new projects, he enjoys woodworking, Dungeons & Dragons, fixing things, advocating for climate justice, and—on any given day—chasing after the camp’s resident goats. He finds deep joy in the slow, faithful work of tending sacred space and helping others encounter God through creation.
Rev. April McClure Stewart serves as Coordinator of Communication and Development Ministries for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Illinois and Wisconsin, where she helps tell the story of the region through writing, design, and collaborative communication. Her work centers on helping congregations and ministries articulate their vision, share their impact, and connect more deeply with one another and the wider church.
A lifelong Disciple, April brings a deep love for the church and a creative, systems-minded approach to her work. She partners with congregations and regional leaders to shape clear, compelling communication and to lift up stories of faith, innovation, and transformation. She currently serves as Pastor of Mosaic Christian Church in Peoria, Illinois, and has ministered in both Disciples of Christ and Mennonite contexts.
April holds a Master of Divinity from Lexington Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. She is especially passionate about the intersection of faith, creativity, storytelling, and spiritual formation, and about helping the church imagine new ways of being faithful in a changing world.
April lives in Eureka, Illinois with her husband, Dennis. Together they enjoy learning alongside—and often hustling to keep up with—their six children, one grandson, two cats, and Grenestowe, their big old green house, where curiosity, creativity, and community are always growing.
A lifelong Disciple, April brings a deep love for the church and a creative, systems-minded approach to her work. She partners with congregations and regional leaders to shape clear, compelling communication and to lift up stories of faith, innovation, and transformation. She currently serves as Pastor of Mosaic Christian Church in Peoria, Illinois, and has ministered in both Disciples of Christ and Mennonite contexts.
April holds a Master of Divinity from Lexington Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. She is especially passionate about the intersection of faith, creativity, storytelling, and spiritual formation, and about helping the church imagine new ways of being faithful in a changing world.
April lives in Eureka, Illinois with her husband, Dennis. Together they enjoy learning alongside—and often hustling to keep up with—their six children, one grandson, two cats, and Grenestowe, their big old green house, where curiosity, creativity, and community are always growing.