Melissa Sevier
Melissa was born and raised in Bristol, Tennessee. Although she grew up United Methodist, she graduated from a Presbyterian-affiliated school, King College, with a degree in elementary education. Melissa also has a master’s degree in Christian Education from Reformed Theological Seminary in Mississippi and a Master of Divinity from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Her doctorate is from McCormick Theological Seminary. She worked as an educator in schools and churches for several years. Melissa is married to Jerry Sevier, an executive with Hallmark Cards. He has two grown daughters: Jennifer Riebel is a pediatrician in Georgetown and Heather Fabretti is a financial planner in Florida.
Melissa and Jerry both enjoy a variety of pursuits. She likes to hike and run (“pretty much anything outdoorsy”), as well as cook, take photographs and sing (she’s a soprano). Jerry enjoys sailing, hiking, gardening, singing (tenor) and especially, golf.
Contact Melissa at melissa@vpc1.org.
Youth Director
Jeff Eller
Jeff comes to VPC with a B.A. in Youth Ministry from North Central University, Minneapolis, MN, after doing work in theology and drama at Southeastern College in Lakeland, FL (where he was active in drama, mime, and baseball).
For twelve years, Jeff served as Youth Pastor in three Assemblies of God congregations in Ohio, Maryland and Kentucky. The last one of those positions brought Jeff and his family to Versailles. In those three churches, Jeff brought stability and growth to the youth programs, and participated in the total life of the churches. He led mission trips to Europe and Central America, mentored youth, worked with church camps, envisioned and implemented wide ranging programs. In 2002 Jeff resigned his position but he and his family chose to stay in Versailles because they love it here. He worked in auto sales and management until 2008 when he and wife Laurie started an internet marketing company. In Jeff's words, "We have had some success and I enjoy the work. However I never lost my passion and heart for ministry."
Jeff and his wife Laurie have four children: Nathan, Natalie, Nicole and Nadine
Contact Jeff at
jeff@vpcyouth.com.
Sara Martin & Mona Phelps
Contact Sara or Mona at
office@vpc1.org.
Elizabeth Yanarella
Elizabeth graduated from the University of Arkansas with a music degree, a major in violin, minor in cello, and proficiency in piano. She has taught orchestra and general music in schools for students 3 years old to 12th grade and now teaches violin lessons. She was been a member of the Lexington Philharmonic for over 25 years and belongs to a string trio that performs for many weddings and special events in the area. Her husband, Ernie, and children, John, Rachael and Walker, often get asked to participate in the music ministry here at VPC. " As a church musician," said Elizabeth, "my philosophy is taken from Psalms 150: "Make a joyful noise" and that allows everyone to participate whatever their ability.
Contact Elizabeth at elizabeth.yanarella@gmail.com.
Ann Jones
Charlie Christensen
Michelle Johnson
Michelle Johnson is a native of Versailles. She moved to Lexington when she was seven and has lived there since. However, Michelle maintains close ties to Versailles through her parents, grandparents and a host of extended family.
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies from the University of Kentucky and has spent her career working in the early childhood field. She has worked as a classroom teacher, preschool director, neighborhood center director, and area manager for five Head Start centers. Michelle is currently employed as the Program Manager for the STARS for KIDS NOW Quality Enhancement Initiative, Kentucky’s quality rating system for early childhood programs.
Michelle resides in Lexington with her husband, Van, owner/operator of Thoroughbred Barber Shop, and their two children. Hillary is very involved in ballet. Tate is beginning his first season of soccer.
Contact Michelle at pmichelle.johnson@uky.edu.
Kristy Hamlin
Contact Kristi at (859)753-8333 or khamlinvpp@gmail.com
Ken Joyce
