Deacons

Jim Dubach

Married to Rhonda since 1984 and a father of two grown children: Brianna and Aaron, Jim has been a member of Metro East since 2003. He regularly attends the Truth Trackers class, and currently serves on the Property Committee, of which he was chairman last year.

Jim became a Christian at the age of nine while listening to a sermon at Troy Baptist Church and his mother and sister were a strong spiritual influence in his life growing up. 

Dean Kitzenberger

Married to Mary Lou since 1957 and a father of three grown children: Kimberly, Scott, and Kristi, Dean has been a member of Metro East since 2007. He regularly attends the Sojourners class and has served on the Property Committee. He has preveously served as deacon, participated on mission trips, and the building committee.     

Dean became a Christian in 1970 after years of observing his wife's example of faith in God, her servant heart, and by attending church with her. 

Jason McClintock

Married to Molly since 2000 and a father of three daughters: Lily, Lucy, and Lyla, Jason has been a member of Metro East since 2005. He regularly attends the Home Builders class, and has taught in the Preschool Ministry. He is presently serving on the Finance Committee and will be acting as chairman for the deacons this year.

Jason became a Christian in 1983 at the age of eight through the influence of Christian parents.  

David McConeghey

What stood out about Metro East that influenced you to join and why?  Friendly People. Biblically based.

Where do you serve now in the body? Hospital Visitation, Chapel Service at the Juvenile Detention Facility once a month. Central Kansas Prison Ministry's Match 2 program visiting a prisoner at the El Dorado Prison once a month.

Tell about a memorable experience while serving or being served at Metro East. Mission trip to Matamoros Mexico. We re-roofed a church in 100 degree plus heat.

How has God gifted you to serve His Bride? He has given me a heart of compassion for kids at the detention center and men in prison.

What are your hobbies? Flight Instructing in Sailplanes.

Tell us about your family. My wife, Susan, and I are from the same town. Our daughter, Lisa, is married to Robby Spillman. They have 4 girls. Our oldest son, John, married Melissa. He is a 5th year resident in general surgery. They have 3 boys and one girl.  Our youngest son, David, graduated from Central Christian College of the Bible and is working at Carlos O'Kellys.

Where did you grow up and what is your background? Newton, Iowa. My grandparents farmed. Learned to fly at age 16. Worked as a professional pilot and flight instructor. Became a christian at age 31. Moved to Wichita in 1984. Boeing for 12 years. Now doing computer work and flying.

Tell about a memorable experience while worshiping at Metro East. I really love praise and worship as led by Jason, Prayers by James, and Preaching by Greg.

Daniel Tucker

Married to Lanea since 2003 and a father of three: Owen, Jack and Elsie Jane, Dan has been a member of Metro East since 2007. He regularly attends the Marriage Builders class and serves as the class Mission Coordinator. Dan is also Church Clerk.

Dan became a Christian as a six year old during family devotions.

Scott White

Married to Katie since 2009 and a father to daughter Annaliese, Scott has been a member of Metro East since 2005. He regluarly attends the Marriage Builders class, has been an adult Sunday School teacher, volunteer for VBS and Student Ministry.

Scott became a Christian in 2002 after trying to find joy and contentment in all of the things the world had to offer. 

Gary Thompson

In 1979, we started going to Prairie Hills, became members, and grew in God’s grace and mercy.  I had already accepted Christ in 1976 and was baptized at Countryside Christian Church.  While at Prairie Hills I had various positions in the church.  I taught a children’s  Sunday School class, was Sunday School Director for several years, and Building and Grounds Chairman for 10 or more years, and a deacon for almost 20 years. When my children were in the youth group, I volunteered to go to Super Summer several years.  Those times were occasions to renew my own spirit and see young people accept Christ.  My wife and I sang in the choir for years.  We also helped in the nursery and pre-school areas when needed.  Since Prairie Hills is a much smaller church than Metro East, everyone had lots of jobs and you did anything that was necessary.  At Metro East, I have been an active member of the Prayer Warriors Bible Fellowship class. I have also served as a greeter and usher for offerings.  One year I helped with Vacation Bible School registration. My wife has helped with refreshments for kids and adults during VBS.  We have also served at the Fall Festivals  that we had in the past.

I would like to see Metro East have enough deacons to really serve our families.  Each member should know who their deacon is and what to expect from that person.  The position of deacon is one of service to the members but that can be many different forms of service-from prayer to hands on help.   There needs to be co-ordination and co-operation between the pastors, elders and deacons to make sure that we are serving our members the way Christ would want.     

Steve Gaylor

I live in Benton, Kansas with my wife (Karen) of 34 years of marriage and have 3 sons, Christopher ( 26), Andrew (21), and Matthew (17). After we were married, Karen and I joined Leawood Baptist Church. After several years I became a deacon in the church.  As a deacon I learned that you must be a care taker of church members and be willing to be a servant in God’s ministry.From there God has lead us to Sabetha, Hutchinson, Topeka and finally Metro East in 2004. During that time I served in several ministries including Sunday School Director and Small Group leader. After visiting a few different churches, we fell in love with Metro East because of the caring attitude of the members. Through Christ I have a more caring attitude toward others and I believe that God has his hand on MEBC so I want to serve Him.