Essential
God intentionally created men and women as different but complementary, each vital to His design for humanity and the church. From Genesis to Jesus to the early church, Scripture affirms that both men and women are meant to serve side by side in God’s mission—
not from the sidelines, but in the game.
Lesser Still
We were created in the image of a self-giving God, yet our default in a fallen world is self-interest and convenience. Philippians 2:3–8 calls us to take on the mindset of Christ, who emptied Himself and served to the point of death, showing us that true fulfillment comes not from self-preservation but from sacrificial love.
Brian and Alyssa Ruesch
Brian and Alyssa Ruesch relocated to Payson from Salt Lake City, Utah, in the spring of 2023, bringing with them a passion for community and faith. They welcomed their daughter, Carolynn, into the world in 2024. Brian operates a small home improvement business, while Alyssa continues to manage her dance school remotely from Utah. Together, they enjoy the great outdoors, with camping, hiking, and rock climbing as their favorite pastimes. Since their move, they have been deeply involved with the Expedition Church family, eager to lead a life group that fosters connection and growth. With a rich background in church leadership and hosting small groups, they are excited to connect with a diverse group of people, valuing the insights of both younger and more seasoned members.
Scott and Kelli Sheffer
Scott and Kelli Sheffer made Payson their home in 2019, leaving behind Hillsboro, Oregon, but bringing with them a deep love for God’s Word and His people. With two adult sons, one serving in the U.S. Air Force and the other active in church leadership, their family is rooted in faith. Kelli, a retired officer from the Portland Police Bureau, and Scott, with a background in probation, are both passionate about living out the gospel daily. They find joy in Rim Country’s natural beauty, enjoying activities like golfing, skiing, and hiking. Their life’s mission is to know Jesus more intimately, obey Him faithfully, and reflect His character to those around them. Hosting a Life Group at Expedition is their way of creating a space where believers of all ages can experience the transforming power of God’s grace and truth.
George and Sheri Taus
George and Sheri Taus have called Payson home since 2019 and have been active members of Expedition Church since 2020. With George serving as the head of the Men's Group and Sheri as a member of the Worship Team, their commitment to service is evident. George, a retired veteran, and Sheri, a cosmetologist, enjoy traveling, gardening, and home renovations. They are blessed with three adult children and a beautiful granddaughter. Their heart is to grow closer to the Lord through deep, meaningful relationships within the church community, fostering two-way discipleship that strengthens all involved.
Jim and Charleen Graham
Jim and Charleen Graham have been pillars of the Expedition Church community since 2018, bringing with them decades of experience in ministry and education. Jim, a retired pastor and seminary professor, and Charleen, a retired educator, have both been deeply involved in Life Groups and various ministries at Expedition. Their love for the Rim Country and the Expedition family is evident in their dedication to serving others. With three adult children and thirteen grandchildren, their desire is to encourage others in their faith journey, helping them integrate into the dynamic Expedition community.
John and Karen Cornelius
John and Karen Cornelius have been a part of Expedition Church for over seven years, having moved from Flagstaff where they frequently visited the church. Their commitment to the Expedition community has grown through their involvement in the children's ministry and supporting hospitality events. With interests in art, music, cooking, and fostering friendships, they have found Life Groups to be a key component in deepening their connections within the church. Now, they are eager to help others feel loved and connected, building meaningful relationships with Jesus and each other.
Randy and Mary Kohls
Randy and Mary Kohls, retired with three grown daughters, moved to Payson in 2021 after spending many years in California. Originally from Chicago, they accepted Christ as teenagers and have a rich history of leading and hosting Life Groups for over 20 years. Randy, a former commercial banker, and Mary, a stay-at-home mother and real estate agent, have a passion for building relationships and staying active in God’s beautiful creation in Payson. Their goal is to continue fostering strong, faith-based connections within their community, encouraging others to grow in their walk with Christ.
Vaden and Suzannah Aldridge
Vaden and Suzannah were recently married in November 2024. In their spare time they like to prepare foods and try to spend a lot of time outside. Vaden has lived in Arizona for over ten years and works as a water resources manager for Payson. Suzannah is a flight nurse where she cares for hospital transport patients. Both Vaden and Suzannah have been involved with life groups and various other activities at Expedition for the past several years. They both are looking forward to building friendship with others, learning and sharing more of how to apply the Bible to everyday life.
Steve and Tara Laureanti
Steve and Tara Laureanti have been part-time residents of Payson and attendees of Expedition Church since 2019, and they are thrilled to be transitioning to full-time this fall! As recent empty nesters with a blended family of six children and five grandchildren, they bring a wealth of life experience to their roles as Life Group leaders. Steve is an attorney, author, and student pilot with a passion for building and flying drones, as well as playing his collection of vintage guitars. Tara has dedicated eight years to women’s ministry as a Bible teacher and speaker, with a love for woodworking and competing in frisbee competitions with their dog, Frankie. Together, they are passionate about encouraging and equipping fellow believers to deepen their relationship with Christ, grow in their relationships with one another, and share the gospel with unbelievers. They enjoy spending time outdoors, axe throwing, shooting pool, and playing ping pong and board games, creating an environment of fun and fellowship.
Jeremy and Amy Hogan
Jeremy and Amy Hogan are a blended family with three adult boys and an 8-year-old daughter, who bring joy and energy to their lives. Their sons have blessed them with four wonderful grandchildren, making family gatherings lively and full of love. Jeremy runs a small business, while Amy manages the beautiful chaos of their home, keeping everything running smoothly. They moved to Payson in 2021 and quickly became involved with Expedition Church, where they have built meaningful friendships. Whether coaching, playing, or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll often find them at the local sports fields, deeply engaged in the community. They understand that life can be messy and not always perfectly put together, but they believe in doing life together, embracing the imperfections along the way.
Pat and Paula Schrader
Paula and I have been married for over thirty years and are parents of three grown boys. We’ve been living in the area since 2006 having a cabin in Pine at which time we attended First Baptist Pine before moving to Payson permanently in 2022. We were led to Expedition Church by golfing friends of Paula and have been blessed by the ministry and friendships of the body of believers. Prior to retirement Paula’s career was in technology where her major involvement was as a network administrator in a hospital setting. My career was as a school administrator for over fifty years. For a number of years I’ve been blessed to facilitate Life Groups and Bible studies. During these experiences the participants along with Paula and myself grew in our relationship with the Lord as well as each other. Our Life Group meets at 8:30am on Fridays.
Larry Kosloski
I relocated to Payson in August 2023 after a 40-year career in sales management in the A/C and plumbing industry. I have one son, three grandsons, and two great-grandsons. In my early adulthood, alcohol took hold of my life. What started as casual drinking gradually became a destructive force that led me down a path of addiction. Over the next 40 years, I lost relationships and experienced financial devastation. But then God set me free! Through His grace, I found healing, restoration, and a new purpose. Now, I feel called to walk alongside men who are struggling as I once did, because I know firsthand that God can work miracles through prayer and by surrounding yourself with the right people. I am grateful for Expedition Church and the incredible community of believers I have met here. It is exciting to see where God will lead us as we seek healing, redemption, and transformation for His glory. This group is a place for men to find hope, accountability, and encouragement. No matter where you are in your journey, you are welcome.
