About
Shawn Smith, Lead Minister
Shawn is an Ohio native, being born in Columbus. He spent his elementary years in Cincinnati before moving to the Southwest.
He grew up in New Mexico, but moved to Illinois for college where he graduated from Illinois State University (B.S.) and Lincoln Christian University (B.S. and MDiv.) He lived and ministered in Illinois for 23 years before returning back home to minister with us.
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He married the love of his life, Wendy, in 2005 and they have four children. He is a family man, but when he has a few hours to spare you will find him riding his bike on the Loveland Bike Trail, sipping a dark roast at Starbucks, Mile 42 or Lot 1, relaxing at the movies, scarfing down a cheese coney at Skyline or at Buffalo Wild Wings cheering on the Atlanta Braves, Indianapolis Colts, or the Ohio State University.
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Holly Kern, Children's Director
Holly is a native Lovelander and will forever be a kid at heart. She joined our congregation in 1998 and volunteered in our children’s ministry for 10 years before stepping in as a full-time director.
She finds great joy in helping children spiritually grow, develop, and find their place in the Kingdom of God.
Holly hits the high marks each summer through her labors of love: vacation bible school and church camp!
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As a wife and mother, Holly values her time with her husband and sons, especially when she goes to Florida in the winter to visit her oldest son.
She enjoys reading, but recently had her first taste of a Caribbean cruise and therefore predicts more of them in her future.
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Dan Ponchot, Associate Minister
Coming from a background in business, Dan joined our staff in 2005. However, Dan is no stranger to the church and his need for it.
He is the son of a preacher, though he refers to himself as the black sheep.
He serves in several roles, working within several of his passions: discipleship, student ministry, and worship ministry.
Dan is a graduate of Milligan College and previously served with several other congregations in the greater Cincinnati area.
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Dan married his high school sweetheart Julie and they have three children - Jacob, Nathan, and Kaitlyn.
He fancies himself a sport-minded person and has a secret (well, not really a big secret) passion for Dunkin Donuts coffee.