Staff & Leadership

Joel Scott

Lead Pastor

Joel’s ministry started with an invitation, asking friends to join his high school youth group. When three of them committed their lives to Christ, he saw that a simple invitation could change everything. Less than a year later, Joel sensed an invitation by the Spirit to enter a life of ministry, and he responded.

Since graduating from Lincoln Christian University, Joel has preached and served at big churches and small churches, missional communities and sports ministries. He’s coached missionaries, completed seminary and served churches in Illinois, New Hampshire and here in Arizona since 2008. He has a heart for the church as a community that exists not just for members, but for the spiritual and practical needs of the people just beyond the church walls.

When he’s not at The Bridge, you might find Joel on a South Mountain trail, watching Ohio State football, or biking with his wife, Kim and three kids. But every Sunday at The Bridge, Joel is there, ready to help you discover the invitation that God has for you.

Ordained:  2006  |  Hope Christian Church, Avon, OH
Bachelor’s degree:   B.A. in Preaching   |  Lincoln Christian University
Master’s degree:         M.A. in Missional Theology   |   Missional Training Center

Emma Johnson

Worship Director

Where did you go to school? I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a major in Worship Arts with an emphasis in Worship Ministry.

What has had the biggest impact on your life and relationship with the Lord? I went on an 11-month mission trip to 6 different countries around the world, partnering with local ministries to serve their communities and encourage local believers. My trip showed me what living life with Jesus can look like and how much goodness there is being in relationship with Him.

Fun Fact! I grew up riding horses but now am allergic to them and to the hay, it doesn't stop me from going out to my mom's barn whenever I can.

Amber Howell

Youth Director

Amber was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania. She recently moved to Arizona after spending the past twelve years living in New York City. During her time there, she served in faith-based nonprofits, schools, and churches, responding to God’s call on her life to serve youth and families. Through this work, she dedicated over a decade to supporting and mentoring young people and their communities.

Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a master’s degree in Special Education.

Gina Kistler

Operations Assistant

Vickie Longenecker

Leadership Team Chair

How long have you been with The Bridge? Since 2022

What is your background? I’m a Kansas girl born & raised in Wichita. A year after college, I was commissioned into the Army where I served for 27 years. Upon retirement I moved to sunny AZ where I have joyfully lived and worked for the past 25 years.

What are your hobbies? I love to travel, engage in creative activities, and serve in various missions in and outside the church.

Robyn Wootton

Leadership Team Vice Chair, Bridgekids

How long have you been with The Bridge? Since 2023

What is your background? I am a recent transplant to Arizona after living in Texas for almost 40 years. I have three grown children and four grandchildren.

Favorite moments in the children's ministry? I love working with God's kids and find joy and laughter serving as a teacher for Bridgekids.

Chuck Russell

Leadership Team Secretary

Kelly Montaño

Leadership Team

Lisa Rempel

Love Moves Team

How long have you been with The Bridge? Since 2019

What is your background? B.S Microbiology, DVM (veterinarian- retired)

What are some fun facts? I first met Kevin, my husband, in a karate class, where I knocked him out. I also have an identical twin sister.

Kevin Bertrandt

Worship & Technology

How long have you been with The Bridge? Since 2019.

Occupation? I have been a small business owner for the last 20 years.

What do you do at The Bridge Church? I'm the sound booth guy.

Kim Scott

Prayer Team

How long have you been with The Bridge? January 2020 with Joel and my 3 children

Do you have any degrees? Masters in Counseling

What moves you spiritually? I enjoy practicing Lectio Divina, which is hearing Scripture read aloud. In addition, I enjoy learning how pieces of the Bible connect into one cohesive, gospel story. Serving in the prayer ministry gives me the opportunity to experience God's presence and power on a regular basis. It also allows me to connect with people around some of the deepest, and most meaningful parts of their lives.

Keiko Garcia

Bridgekids

How long have you been with The Bridge? Since 2021

What is your background? I have a Bachelor of Education, Masters of Special Education, and Master of Social Work. Also a Licensed Master Social Worker. I’m originally from Japan and have lived in Arizona for 10 years. My husband and I have two adopted children, two dogs, and five cats.

Favorite moments in the children's ministry? I enjoy singing praise songs and sharing the love of Jesus with children through our children's program. Hearing children's thoughts and questions about our Bible stories is a great joy and blessing for me.

Cathy Kalin

Women's Ministries

How long have you been with The Bridge? Started at The Bridge when Pastor Duane Cross was here in 2019, as our Interim Pastor.

Do you have any degrees? B.A, Communications; Master of Communications, science and medical writing

Favorite scripture? Romans 8:28 . . . God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

Phil Pelc

Treasurer

How long have you been with The Bridge? Since 2018

Ministry background? My wife and I serve with SOWER (Servants on Wheels Ever Ready), a RV ministry group.

What are some highlights of being the Treasurer? I enjoy the treasurer position because I love budgets and helping in any way that I can to help the church stay within the balanced budget.

Suzan Williams

First Impressions and Care Team

How long have you been with The Bridge? Since 2010

What is your background? I am a Hospice nurse. I have 4 children and 9 grandchildren.

Favorite reasons for serving as First Impressions and Care Team Leader? I like meeting and greeting new people. I also like visiting with people and being supportive of them!