Pray first
We seek God’s direction before relying on our own ideas, experience, or ability.
People who serve people
Meet our
leadership.
Leading with humility, prayer, and a genuine love for the people of Excelsior Springs.
Lead Pastor
James Chester
Pastor James leads Refuge Church of Excelsior Springs with a heart to help people encounter Jesus, find family, and experience hope.
“Church should be a place where people are known, prayer is personal, and no one walks through life alone.”
How we lead
The values behind our service.
Leadership at Refuge begins with following Jesus and choosing to serve people with humility, faithfulness, and genuine care.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” Mark 10:43
Lead with humility
We see leadership as service, not status, and remain willing to do what the moment requires.
Love people well
We listen, make room, and walk beside people through both celebration and hardship.
Serve with excellence
We faithfully steward every gift, resource, and opportunity God has placed in our hands.
Our core team
Serving Refuge Church together.
Sarah Chester
First Lady
Sarah serves others as a nurse outside Refuge Church, and her ministry within Refuge is invaluable. She willingly steps into any role where she is needed and makes time to love the people who call Refuge home. A prayer warrior and a caring listener, Sarah offers encouragement and friendship to those who need someone beside them.
Will Galloway
Guest Relations Leader
A retired Navy veteran who now works for the postal service, Will genuinely loves people. He goes out of his way to greet everyone—whether they are visiting for the first time or have called Refuge home for years—and helps each person know they are seen and welcome.
“Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” Romans 15:7
Michael Chester
Technology Leader
Michael is pursuing bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at UMKC. With a remarkable gift for technology and creative problem-solving, he is always finding thoughtful new ways to use technology to strengthen Refuge Church and support its ministries.
Sakora Crank
Social Media Leader
Sakora is a high school senior with a natural eye for the right angle and the moments that tell Refuge’s story best. She brings creativity and engagement to the church’s social media presence. Sakora also loves children, and when she is not capturing the perfect shot, she can often be found spending time with the kids of Refuge.
Lesa Whitehead
Cleaning Leader
Lesa is a faithful woman of God who has devoted her life to helping people, both through her work outside the church and through her service at Refuge. She works diligently to keep the church welcoming, presentable, safe, and clean so everyone who enters can feel cared for.
Serving together