Paul Jones Lead Pastor
Emmanuel was founded in 1952 and Dr. Paul Jones has served as the Lead Pastor since 1989. The continuity and stability of the church is further reflected in the fact that he followed his father who served as pastor before him. Paul gave his life to the Lord at an… read more
Steve Lortz Executive Pastor
Has a bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering Technology and a Masters of Theological Studies (MTS) from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. Oversees the day-to-day business of the church, the staff, facilities, missions and church planting. Originally from Des Moines, IA, Steve moved to Montana with his family at the age… read more
Eddie Frank Worship Pastor
Attended Multnomah School of the Bible and Montana State University Billings. Graduated with a degree in Education and minors in Music and French. Originally from Oregon but moved to Billings in 1992 when he met his wife Jane at Clydehurst Christian Ranch. Joined our staff as Worship Leader in 2012.… read more
Jeff House Adult Ministry Pastor
Holds a bachelor's degree in Pastoral Theology from Crown College in Powell Tennessee. Received a Master of Ministry from Crown Seminary in May 2022. Received a Doctorate of Ministry from Newburgh Theological Seminary in December 2023. Originally from Boardman, Ohio where he met his wife Carrie at church and were… read more
Ryan Cooper Counseling Pastor
Originally from Billings. Family has been members of Emmanuel since 1981. Has a Bachelor's Degree in Science / Secondary Education from MSU-B. Holds a Master's Degree in Biblical Counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary in Newburgh, IN. Met his wife, Kim, at Emmanuel and they were married in 2005. Join our… read more
Michael Laird NextUp Pastor
Holds a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Provides oversight to our Next Up Ministries (eTots, eKids, LINK). Born in Corpus Christi, TX Grew up attending Emmanuel with his family and was saved and baptized here as a child. Served as a Journeyman Missionary in the Canary Islands, Spain for… read more
Josh Schoening Men's Ministry & Young Adult Pastor
Has a bachelor's degree in sport management and a master's in Christian apologetics, both from Liberty University. Responsible for developing discipleship and connection for men of all ages. In October 2025, Josh also began serving as our Young Adult Pastor. In this role he develops relationships with young adults, teaches… read more
Trey Haidle Student Ministry Pastor
Born and raised in Montana. Started attending Emmanuel in 2009. Graduated in May 2020 from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago Illinois with a bachelor's in biblical studies. Holds a Master of Art in Christian Apologetics from Biola University Talbot School of Theology. Married Jessie in November 2021. They have 2… read more
Obed Aguirre Spanish Speaking Ministry Pastor
Originally from Monterrey, Mexico Son of a pastor / church planter in Mexico. Prayed to receive Christ at age 12; called to full-time ministry at age 16. Trained at Bethel Baptist Bible School in Monterrey, graduating in 1999. Came to the United States in 2000 and served in a Spanish… read more
Victor Romero Associate Pastor
Victor joined our staff in February 2025 and serves as Associate Pastor in our Spanish Ministry. Assists Pastor Obed to meet the teaching, discipline and worship of our Hispanic Congregation. Originally from Chiapas, Mexico. Is married to Maria and has 3 children. read more
Mike Feralio Shepherding Pastor
Mike joined our staff in January 2025. He currently serves as our Shepherding Pastor and meets the needs and spiritual care of those who are hospitalized or nursing home residents. Licensed to the gospel ministry in 2015. Spent 10 years as the Spiritual Director at an assisted living facility. Having… read more
Steve Fowler Associational / Church Planting Pastor
Has a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from College of the Ozarks. Holds a Master of Divinity with a Missions and Evangelism emphasis from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Originally from Arkansas, Steve has served in church planting for over 32 years; 20 in Michigan prior to his work in… read more
Gary Fried First Impressions Director
Has attended Emmanuel since 2003. Raised in Billings. Single with a son & daughter and 5 grandchildren. Enjoys all outdoor activities, especially golf, hunting, and fishing. Enjoys spending time at Clydehurst Christian Ranch each summer. read more
Cari Roush Women's Ministry Director
Has been involved in various capacities at Emmanuel for over 30 years. Met her husband Tom in Emmanuel’s youth group. They have been married since 1984. Has 4 adult children: Leah, Holly (Jeff), Elena (Preston) and Tyler (Taylor); and 4 grandchildren (Landon, Hazel, Kellen and Blake). Previously served as our… read more
Jamie Arbizzani eKids Director
Has a degree in Child Development from Montana State University - Bozeman Married to Paul since 1993. Has 3 children: Alexander (married to Bailey), Benjamin (married to Laura) and Christopher. Works with kids because God put it in her heart to reach families for Him through caring for their children. Favorite portion… read more
Patty Kenaston SCA Director
Born and raised in Billings Degree in Early Childhood Development from the University of Montana-Western Loves to spend time with her family Active member of Emmanuel since 1996 Became part of the launch team for Emmanuel's church plant, Gracepoint, in 2019. Married to Dennis since 2022 Has two daughters, Allison… read more