Pastor Russ Barton has served God's people for over twenty years.  Whether as a youth minister, music minister, assistant pastor or finally as a senior pastor, his heart has always been for the people.  His first church grew from approximately twenty people to almost four hundred in less than nine years. Pastor Russ' mission is to continue to reach God's people through a local body of believers he calls a Church of a Second Chance, reaching out to those whom others have rejected. Having been through difficult times himself, he understand the hurts of those who are down and out, and he has a true heart for those the organized church often rejects. His Sunday messages emphasize soul winning identified by (1) a compassion for the hurting; (2) a passion for souls, and (3) practical teaching to the Body of Christ on how to overcome the trials and temptations of life we all face. Along with the use of music, stories, and multi-media aids, he emphasize the practical in the spiritual. Not only the adults benefit from this emphasis on the practical aspects of living in the Word, but the children and youth departments benefit as well. The teachers for each age group are uniquely qualified to help meet the needs of children at the various ages of development and interest. Helping each person to identify their gifts and talents, Pastor Russ encourages his congregation to pursue their vision and goals. He is a down-to-earth, honest man who is open with his people about his life, and the lessons he has learned. Pastor Russ is ordained through Church on the Rock International and is married to Terry. They have five children.