The Oregon Conference has recently seen five pastors affirmed through ordination to gospel ministry. After years of experience, including meeting specific leadership benchmarks, receiving an assessment of their leaders, and going through a personal review with Conference leaders, a pastor’s journey culminates with ordination or commissioning. It is an important moment in a pastor’s journey when their ministry is recognized, celebrated, affirmed, and supported by their local leaders, congregations, and Oregon Conference leadership.
The five ordained pastors include: Tanner Martin, Gemedi Geleto, Troy Wallace, Oleksander Skibelskyi, and Evan Davies. Let’s meet these great pastors…
Pastor Tanner first sensed his calling to ministry during a mission trip to the Philippines, where he felt a deep conviction to serve God and others. He began his journey as a Bible worker, gaining valuable experience, and as he opened Scripture, prayed with people, and pointed them to Christ, he found great joy in ministry, and God continued to affirm his calling. Today, he serves three churches alongside his wife, Stephanie, and their daughter, Emma. Tanner is known for his kindness, humility, dedication to his congregations, and a steadfast trust in God's guidance. Thoughtful in his approach to ministry, he preaches inspiring messages that uplift and encourage his people, who clearly see Jesus working in and through him. Thank you for answering the call, Pastor Tanner!
Born and raised in Ethiopia, Pastor Gemedi gave his heart to Jesus at age 12. Soon he moved to the United States at 15, where he grew into adulthood in the Oregon Conference while engaging in ministry and learning English. Initially working in public health, he later answered God's call to pastoral ministry, and alongside his wife, Dureti, helped grow the Oromo group into a company and eventually an official church. Gifted, compassionate, and deeply knowledgeable, he is a caring and hardworking pastor who is well-loved in his community. Pastor Gemedi is a devoted man of God who radiates the love and care of Jesus to all those he serves. Thank you for answering the call, Pastor Gemedi!
Pastor Troy shepherds and preaches at Crosspoint Church and newly expanded responsibilities to Hillsboro Church along with his wife MacKenzie and 2 children. His ministry is marked by a deep personal relationship with Christ, reflected in his positive approach to ministry and relationships, and his sermons resonate with meaningful content. Pastor Troy has skillfully led a diverse church community with compassion, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills that foster a sense of love and value among the congregation. Thank you for answering the call, Pastor Troy!
Born in Ukraine in 1977, he initially aspired to be an artist but felt called to ministry. In 2017, Olexandr joined Hope Media Group Ukraine, serving as a chaplain and media host. Amidst the challenges of war, he and his family relocated to the U.S., where he now pastors at the House of Peace Adventist Church in Oregon. Bringing a positive approach to ministry, building strong relationships and connecting well with all generations. He serves faithfully, known for his patience and wisdom in leadership. A devoted husband and father, he continues to nurture his artistic talents, illustrating children’s books and enjoying family travels. Thank you for answering the call, Pastor Oleksandr!
Family and Children’s Pastor at Meadow Glade Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he and his wife Lilia now joyfully raise their two children and serve a congregation passionate about sharing Christ. Known for his authentic faith, positive approach to ministry, and strong leadership, Evan is deeply engaged in church growth and guiding others to Jesus. He communicates effectively through meaningful sermons, leads by example with wisdom and maturity, and is a thoughtful problem solver who helps strengthen the church community. Thank you for answering the call, Pastor Evan!
We are so grateful for these amazing pastors, celebrate their ministry, and congratulate each pastor on their ordination! When affirmed in ordination, each of these men gave all the glory to God. These special moments recognize that a pastor is called and functioning in servant leadership in their local context. As president John McVay has stated during these services, “Ordination must never compete with the coronation of Christ.”
