Sam has been called a "Nerd for the Lord" by his friends, and it fits. He loves his family, the outdoors, and yes nerdy things like super hero movies, designing collectibles, as well as reading and writing fiction. He has an M. A. in Apologetics from Luther Rice University. He spent 5 years as the senior pastor of the Fountain Christian Church before feeling called to launch The Stone.

Sam is pictured with his wife Heather, an Occupational Therapist, their son, Avery Joe, a gamer, and an artist in the making, their daughter, Leliana, who is obsessed with singing, anime and manga, their cat, Maxi, who has journeyed with Sam and Heather all around the country, including Alaska, and their most recent addition, Potato the pug.

Sam's short testimony in his words. "I grew up knowing that God existed, that Jesus was God, and I knew there were things I should do and other things I shouldn't do. I felt great pressure to do good, but knew I was failing it as I got older. In high school I heard a gospel presentation that finally helped grace click for me. I never could be perfect, I could never save myself, I couldn't even pay God back for being good to me. I could only submit to Him, and then He would save me. It was a great relief to me. I dug in to verify that God and the bible were true, and I know tell folks I'm a Christian because I'm convinced it's true. I have been sharing with others ever since, because I want them to know the truth that can set them free."

sam@thestone.cc

Martin helped the Sears family load up their truck to head to plant The Stone and later joined them on the ground. He has served in a variety of roles from sound to tech youth leader.

Because we started from the ground up, we are rising local leaders like some of the men pictured above, and their wives, who fill roles like elders, deacons, and other volunteer spots.

While we launch, we will receive additional support and accountability from a team made up of our sending partners. 3 Pastors who were are a part of sending the Sears family to Clarksville, make up this team. Andrew (pictured above) Even stopped by from out of state to worship with us, shortly after launch.