Deacon Nominees

Acts 6:1-7 is the passage often cited for the beginning of the office of deacon in the early Christian church. Though the seven who were elected were not specifically called “deacons” in the technical sense, they nonetheless functioned as deacons. The office of deacon probably grew out of this experience.

There are primarily three reasons for the selection of deacons in the Acts 6 passage. These men were asked to meet a need that would directly serve the apostles so that they would be able to “give full attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” (verse 4). The second reason these men were chosen to serve was so that they could literally distribute and serve food to widows in the congregation. Finally they were utilized to bring peace (shalom) between frustrated groups within the church.

So based on the story deacons:

1. Served the Apostles
2. Served the widows (some of the most vulnerable in the church)
3. Brought peace In general this is your role as a deacon.

Deacons serve the leadership of the church as they shepherd us all. They are actively involved in bringing peace and harmony within the congregation. In doing these three things, they help the church to live out its mission.

Below are the deacon nominations for 2025:

Joshua Stillwaugh

My name is Joshua Stillwaugh, and I’ve been attending South Spring for the past 10 years since moving from California. What drew me in initially was the church’s unmistakable love for children, and over time, this community has become my spiritual family, welcoming me with the kind of grace and warmth I believe Jesus would have shown. I’ve had the joy of serving in several areas, including teaching both youth and infants, helping with men’s events, and recently joining the Golf Cart Crew. I was also introduced to TRAC through South Spring and now serve as a director, which has been a deeply meaningful part of my journey.

I’m blessed with a loving and supportive wife, Natalie, we’ll be celebrating 13 years of marriage soon, and our daughter Juniper continues to inspire me daily to grow as a father and follower of Christ. I work in digital marketing, which allows me to connect with a wide variety of people, and I hope to increasingly use those interactions to reflect God’s love.

I’m humbled by the opportunity to be considered for the role of deacon. I simply want to serve wherever I’m needed and continue growing in Christ. One verse that centers our family is Psalm 19:14: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”

Terry Knighton

I have been married to my wife Pattie for 41 years. We have a wonderful daughter and son-in-law that are the parents of our 2 grandsons and a granddaughter that is on the way. We also have a wonderful son and lovely daughter-in-law. We have lived in Flint for about 3 years and love being a part of the South Spring family.

Eric Lisenbe

Hello, my name is Eric Lisenbe. I am happily married to my wife, Rebekah Lisenbe, who serves on staff at South Spring. We have a 10-year old daughter, Kahlan, we adopted last year and currently have a foster baby. I joined South Spring after moving to Tyler after getting married to Rebekah in 2022. I have served in children’s ministry, pre-school ministries and other areas. I desire to serve Christ in the areas of marriage, family discipleship, and evangelism.

Chasity Glasspoole

Hi everyone my name is Chasity Glasspoole! I am originally from North East Louisiana but have been in Tyler since 2020. I have been a member of Southspring for around 4 years and have been actively serving in our youth ministry with 11-12th grade girls! I currently work at Promise Academy where I teach Elementary P.E. and am the Director of Extended School Day. Some of my favorites things to do are play pickleball, read fun books, go fishing and take care of my plants! I love our church and am honored to be up for Deacon nomination and am excited to continue to serve alongside you!

Dan Ford

My name is Dan Ford, and I’ve been a part of South Spring since 2009—back when it was still FBC South Campus. In 2019, I married my wonderful wife, Jessica. Together we have four children: Kenneth (18 months), Dawson (12), and Bella and Krista (both 19). Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to serve at SSBC in a variety of ways—through hospitality, special events, and Sunday morning classes (both adult and children’s). I’ve especially enjoyed being part of the men’s ministry and have been a part of several men’s Bible studies. What I love most about South Spring is the honest call to action and the focus on equipping one another and the next generation. I’m grateful for the chance to serve as a deacon, and I strive each day to lead my family well and walk faithfully in whatever role God has for me.

Lance Hart

Lance and his wife Kristin have three daughters- Alana, Elora, and Catalyn. He and his family have been members of South Spring for three years. Lance leads the New Beginnings class with his wife, in addition to leading a small discipleship group and discipling people one-on-one.