Nate & Sarah Thirey, Lead Elders
Nate and Sarah Thirey have been a part of DOVE since their days in youth group. Nate was born and raised in Clinton County, and Sarah moved here from California with her parents in the early 90's. They were married in 2005 following Nate's graduation from Cedarville University, and he now serves as lead elder, along with Sarah, on the elder team. They have 4 kids and are involved in the local homeschool community, and the Wilmington Christian Academy. Small business ownership has become part of their DNA through most of their married life, working mainly in construction and remodeling. Music is a big part of their lives, and they enjoy using their gifts on the DOVE worship team. Nate and Sarah enjoy living in Wilmington and raising their family here and want to see people's lives in this city touched and changed when they encounter the Living Hope, Jesus.
Steve & Trudi Fricke, Elders
Steve and Trudi have been with DOVE since the very beginning! They have served in all capacities, with Steve heading up our renovation and moving into the Rombach location. Steve retired from Buckley Brothers after many years with the company. He now spends his time helping lead DOVE, farming, and volunteering with the Board of Elections. Trudi works for Buckley Brothers, does many jobs for DOVE, and helps with her grandkids!
They have two grown children and eight grandchildren living on the Fricke family farm in Clarksville.
Travis & Stephanie Hughes , Elders & Youth Pastor
Travis and Stephanie served as Youth Pastors from 2011-2023 and joined the eldership team in 2019. Travis works full-time for Liberty Mutual Insurance and Stephanie is a waitress at the Mediterranean Restaurant downtown. They stay busy with their 4 children: Blythe, Levi, Henry & Corinne.
Travis serves on the Wilmington Christian Academy school board and as a drummer for DOVE. Travis & Stephanie are passionate about seeing young people living their lives for Christ and enjoy Middle School and High School ministry!
You can reach Travis at doveyouth@dovewilmington.org.
Dave & Robyn Hinman, Pastoral Staff
As part of our pastoral staff, Dave preaches, leads life groups, does weddings and funerals, and coaches members needing encouragement in their faith. He is treasurer of the Wilmington Ministerial Association, a Spiritual Director for the Wilmington Emmaus Walk Community, and is Director of the DADz Initiative at the New Life Clinic. Dave attended Wilmington College and graduated from Southern State, retired in 2010 as manager of Miami Valley Lighting at DP&L, and has enjoyed participating in leadership roles at DOVE since 2011.
Robyn was born and raised in Clinton County, recently retired from Clinton Memorial Hospital, is also engaged in leadership at DOVE and the local Emmaus Walk ministry, and is a member of the Wilmington Kiwanis Club. They have two adult children and four grandchildren.
You can reach Dave at daveatdove@gmail.com
Sarah Shivers, Children’s Pastor
Sarah has been with DOVE Church for years and joined our staff as Children’s Pastor in 2021. She lives in Wilmington with her husband and four children. She home schools her kids and works at For a Song and a Story, as well!