Staff / Bio's 

Pastor Brian Keith

The son of parents who instilled serving Jesus into his life, Brian was raised in church. “I remember at an early age the understanding of my need for a Savior. It seems that every time there was an altar call I went forward to ask Jesus into my heart. It was at 14 that I accepted Christ once and for all with His assurance that I simply needed to walk it out.” This was just beginning of Brian’s grace-filled journey of faith. “My relationship with Jesus is more precious to me than ever. I’m so thankful God has held me and led me through this journey of life even when I haven’t necessarily held onto Him as tightly as I should have. He is so faithful and loving!”
 
As Brian reflects on 27 years of full time ministry, he fondly remembers his many opportunities to sing and minister for the Lord.
 
At the age of 21 Brian was asked to join the PTL Singers on the PTL Club television program. It was during this time that he met his beautiful wife, Kelly. “She has been such a strength in our marriage and I’ve relied on her insight and wisdom so many times throughout the years.” Since 1989 Brian & Kelly have ministered together in music and pastoral ministry in various churches. “God has been so gracious and good to us. It continues to be a privilege to share the gospel to the hurting and lost.”
 
Brian & Kelly are celebrating 23 years of marriage this year. Their oldest son, Cameron, is married to Erica, and their youngest son, Braden, is a recent graduate from high school. They all have a heart for the Lord and are serving Him in various areas of ministry. They are a joy to their parent’s heart.
 
As Brian & Kelly enter a new chapter of their ministry at Faith Assembly, it’s their sincere desire to serve and love as an extension of Christ, seeing souls saved and people grow in a relationship with Jesus Christ, who then take the Gospel message out to others as the church impacts the surrounding community with the love and hope of Christ. Contact at: bkeith@connectatfaith.com

Russ Cratty, Student Ministries Director

When God told Abraham to leave his home and go to a place I will show you, “Abraham obeyed not knowing where he would end up. For many of us this is a great reminder of where our faith began, but for Russ and his family, it was much more literal than that. Like Abraham, they came to the Carolinas from Pennsylvania knowing God had directed them here, but not fully knowing their purpose.

Russ has continued to live his life in unquestioning obedience to Christ. Several years later he began to realize the purpose that God called him to. Mentoring and training leaders and helping youth and adults find there spiritual gifts by walking together with them in service. One of Russ’s favorite quotes is, “We are to play the unique roll in influencing others for the cause of Christ”.

Russ and LuAnne have been married for 35 years and have been blessed with 5 beautiful girls, and now are enjoying 8 grandchildren.  Contact at: rcratty@connectatfaith.com

 

Matt Shearer, Children's Ministries Director

Matt began Children’s Ministry back in 2003. He started as a Sunday school teacher, and a small group’s leader. After moving from Columbia to the Charlotte area, Matt became part of the Children’s ministry leadership team at his local church.

He loves teaching the kids, and incorporates creative object lessons. He brings a high energy kid’s church service every Sunday to Cross Roads. “I have a passion for teaching children the Way, the Truth and the Life.”

Matt has been married to his lovely wife Melody for 8 years. His step-daughter Tara leads worship for the children in Cross Roads. Their daughter Josie attends Jesus Junction on Sunday mornings.

Matt’s desire is for every child to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and also for the children to build a strong foundation to grow from. “Kids and Christ are my main focus.” Contact at: mshearer@connectatfaith.com