​Mel has faithfully served in pastoral ministry for nearly 40 years. He has been married to his wife, Sherry, for 40 years—a partnership he knew was meant to be from the very first time he saw her. For the past nine years, they have called Sparwood home, where he enjoys mountain biking and fishing in the surrounding area. In his younger years, he was actively involved in competitive hockey and baseball. Beyond the local church, he has a deep heart for missions, having led a ministry in Mexico for approximately 20 years, taught at three different Bible colleges, and even spent time tree planting during his college years. Above all, he genuinely loves the church and values meaningful relationships with its people, and he is excited to see the gospel continue to spread throughout the valley.

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Email: mel@hillsidesparwood.ca

Phone: 250-295-5499

​Rick has 8 years of full-time ministry experience, along with 3 years in lay ministry; he also holds a graduate degree from Trinity Western University.

Rick has been married to his wife Sarah for 24 years and they have 3 adult children together. They moved to the Elkford community in July 2025. What he loves most about this area is the genuineness of the people. Rick and Sarah also love living the small-town life in the Rocky Mountains. Simply said, small town life suits them; “That’s where I come from, that’s who I am…” If you see Rick roaming around the aisles of the Kootenay Market feel free to stop him and chat, as he wants to get to know you.​

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Email: rick@hillsidesparwood.ca

Phone: 780-974-1446

Sherry has faithfully served in ministry for over 40 years, with 20 of those years dedicated to youth ministry. Throughout her ministry journey, she has led KidZone programs, Kids Cafés, and taught Sunday school. This is her ninth year serving in Sparwood, a community she loves for its beauty and welcoming spirit. It was here that she discovered mountain biking—and quickly found it to be addictive. Above all, her favorite part of ministry is the people and the relationships built along the way.

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Email: sherry@hillsidesparwood.ca

Phone: 250-295-5498

Laura has been serving at Hillside Community Church for 8 years in roles like Kids Café, Sunday school, women’s ministry, summer camp, and VBS. She recently became the church administrator, helping keep things running smoothly and creating a welcoming environment for all. Married to Alex for 10 years, they’re raising (and homeschooling!) their two kids, Judah and Ruby. Laura also supports Alex in their renovation business with client relations and design work.

Living in Sparwood, she loves summer days paddle boarding, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Laura is passionate about seeing both the church and local community thrive and believes ministry is best lived out through doing life together—building relationships, sharing moments, and walking alongside others in faith.

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Email: admin@hillsidesparwood.ca

Phone: 778-257-4335