STAFF
Lead Pastor
Pastor Chris came to Emmanuel in July of 2017 to serve as the Pastor of Family Life and became lead pastor in 2021. Having served the previous 16 years at Free Methodist educational institutions, Greenville University and Central Christian College of Kansas. A native of Bethany, IL, Pastor Chris has a B.S. in Youth Ministry from Greenville University and an M.Ed. in College Student Affairs from Azusa Pacific University.
Pastor Chris serves on a number of conference and community boards and committees.
Pastor Chris, and his wife Leah, have three children (Sawyer, Lucy and Madelyn).
nextgen pastor
Zach Davis came to Emmanuel in 2025 to serve as the Next Gen Pastor. He was born in Decatur, IL, and later moved to Cerro Gordo, IL. Zach earned a bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from Greenville University, where he met his wife Laura. After graduating, he served as Youth Director at Living Word Church in Wildwood, MO, before completing a Master of Divinity at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Chicago. He later served as Youth and Associate Pastor at Grace Church in Nashville, IL. Laura teaches High School Spanish, and they have a young son, Elias. Zach has a passion for investing in the next generation, building relationships, and discipling students and families. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, fishing, being outdoors, and spending time with loved ones.
COMMUNICATIONS
Emily has been a regular part of Emmanuel her entire life. She attended Greenville College and graduated in 2013 with a B.S in Adult Fitness. Before joining the staff at EFMC, Emily worked at a physical therapy office for 5 years and enjoyed meeting many people in the Alton community. In 2021, she transitioned into a role that has allowed her to help build the communication throughout the community here at Emmanuel.
She and her husband, Eric, have 2 daughters (Elaina and Eilah).
CHILDREN'S Ministry & Spiritual formation
Leah is a 1998 graduate of Cornerstone University and received a Master's in Educational Ministry from Huntington University in 2003. She previously served for 9 years in Christian Higher Education, including two Free Methodist colleges (Greenville and Central). Leah served for 3 years as the Director of Early Childhood Ministry at the McPherson Free Methodist Church, in McPherson, KS.
Leah coordinates our Godly Play ministry during 2nd service as well as our Connect Kids ministry on Sunday nights.
In 2025, Leah expanded her role by assuming leadership over the spiritual formation at Emmanuel. She provides leadership over our discipleship programs, including Sunday School, Connect Groups and Volunteer as Ministry programs.
Worship ministries
Annie grew up in Brighton, IL and has long been a part of the Emmanuel family. She began leading worship as a teen and continued to lead as a college student. Annie is a gifted vocalist and teacher.
Annie is currently a student at SIUE majoring in music education. She will graduate
