Lead Pastor John and Spouse Stephannie

Pastor John and Stephannie come to us from Fort Scott, KS. They have four children. They are excited for all God has for them in the Joplin Community and Traders Church. 

"Sin used to be a way of life," says Pastor John. Now it is the exception to the rule. His goal every day is to live life that would please God, to put God above all. Because of the love and forgiveness John has received from Jesus, John has been able to forgive his abusers who have brought hurt to him. He strives each and every day to live as one redeemed by the blood of Jesus. 

John and Stephannie have great stories of God's great love and restoration in their lives. Join them with your story and be a part of Traders Church. 

A family that loves Jesus, loves people and loves life.

Pastor Trista and husband Josh come to us from Carl Junction Mo. They have three children. Trista has been a pastor for 14 years. She has been a youth, lead, and children's pastor. Trista is currently our Discipleship and Outreach pastor.  The Discipleship and Outreach Pastor helps people grow from first-time guests into fully devoted followers of Jesus. This role provides leadership for discipleship pathways, small groups, leadership development, outreach efforts, and key areas of family ministry, including Children’s Church. Pastor Trista is passionate about helping people connect, grow in their faith, and live out their calling.

 Pastors Trista key Verse is Romans 9:1-3 (NIV)  [1] I speak the truth in Christ—I am not lying, my conscience confirms it through the Holy Spirit— [2] I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. [3] For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own race.

Pastor Staci and Pastor Freeman come to us from Webb City Mo.

- Pastor Staci has been a pastor for the past 12 years. She has been a children's, youth, recovery and lead pastor. Staci has 2 adult children and is currently our Next Steps pastor, The Next Steps Pastor helps individuals move from crisis, recovery, or early spiritual growth into full engagement in church life. This role integrates pastoral care with practical discipleship, serving as a bridge between healing, connection, and spiritual development. Pastor Staci collaborates closely with the Recovery Pastor and Discipleship Pastor to ensure individuals are supported, equipped, and discipled through every season of life. Staci attended Nazarene Bible College for a bachelor degree in pastoral ministries and is currently attending NBC for a bachelors degree in Counseling in Christian Ministries.

- Pastor Freeman has received his district license this past summer at district assembly. Freeman is retired from the Army and is currently in school in pursuit of becoming ordained. Freeman has three children and is our Recovery pastor. Recovery Pastor Freeman leads ministries that help people find healing, freedom, and restoration through Christ. This role provides leadership and oversight of our Celebrate Recovery program, offers pastoral care to those facing addiction or emotional brokenness, and equips leaders within the recovery community. Pastor Freeman serves in alignment with the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene and is passionate about walking alongside people on their journey toward wholeness. His key verse is Zephaniah 3:17 "Do the next right thing, one day at a time."