When Joel was at Eastern Kentucky University in 1987, he never dreamed what the Lord had planned.  Joel was studying to become a dentist, but God had other plans.  Joel did complete a degree from Eastern Kentucky University, but it was in psychology and not dentistry.  He then went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Counseling from Asbury Theological Seminary.  While taking seminary classes at Southern Seminary in Louisville, KY, he became a friend of, and accountability partner with, our Senior Pastor, David Bullock.

Fast Forward in Time.  Several years after their friendship began in seminary, Joel became a charter member of Eagle Heights Church.  Joel was not on the Pastoral Team at this time, but lived in Somerset while administrating Behavioral Health Practices in ‘Corporate America’.

Since then, Joel sees Jeremiah 29:11 come to life.  In July 2004, Joel joined the Eagle Heights Pastoral Team as the full-time Pastor of Counseling and CARE.  Joel established the Under His Wings Christian Counseling Center as a ministry arm of Eagle Heights.  This ministry acts as the Intensive Care Unit for our church family.  Joel is convinced that the church is to be a place that cares about the entire person:  spiritual, physical and emotional.  His favorite verse is Jeremiah 29:11 which says, “Behold, I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper you, not to harm you; plans for hope and a future.”

Joel and his wife, Cindy have been married for over 15 years and have one son, Drew.  They are also parents to a foreign exchange student, Jonas Kremer.  They reside in Somerset and love being a part of a church that is alive!