Leadership & Staff
Our Shepherds
We currently have five men who serve as elders for the Bear Valley congregation. These men exercise oversight for the congregation (1 Peter 5:2) and watch over our souls (Hebrews 13:17). These men all love the Lord, His church, and those whom they seek to shepherd. We are blessed to have such men serving the Lord here.
Wes Autrey
Donnie Bates
Dave Chamberlin
Michael Hite
Denny Petrillo
Cory Waddell
Pulpit Minister
Cory Waddell came to work with Bear Valley in January of 2020, having previously served churches in The Woodlands, TX and Lebanon, TN. Cory is married to Paige and has two active boys (Jace & Cameron). He discovered his desire to enter ministry at the young age of 12-years-old, which ultimately led him to attend Freed-Hardeman University. While there he earned a B.A. in Biblical Studies and a M.A. in New Testament. As of 2019, Cory is also pursuing a Masters of Divinity from Heritage Christian University.
Brett Petrillo
Youth/Worship Minister
Brett and his wife, Julie, have four children (Ashlyn, Easton, Brelyn, & Kyson). He studied Youth & Family Ministry at Harding University before attending the Bear Valley Bible Institute and graduating with a Bachelors of Theology and later with a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies. Has worked as the youth & family minister since 2009. He has worked with Bear Valley's Future Preachers Training Camp as a camper, counselor, and now most recently as co-director. He regularly speaks at camps, youth rallies, summer series, and other forums. He also writes for Bear Valley's Daily Bread and other publications.