Dawn Darwin Weaks is a remarkable individual who wears multiple hats. She is a co-pastor with husband Joe Weaks of Connection Christian Church in Odessa, Texas. Her leadership and contributions have made her a trusted community leader in the area. She is also an author, having written the book "Breakthrough: Trusting God for Big Change in Your Church". This book provides insights into navigating change within a church community, emphasizing trust in God during transformative times.

Dawn holds an impressive educational background. She earned her B.A. from Baylor University, followed by an M.Div. from Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University. She furthered her studies and obtained a D.Min. from the St. Paul School of Theology.
In addition to her pastoral work and writing, Dawn has contributed to the Unbinding the Gospel series, a valuable resource for church transformation. Her dedication to faith, leadership, and fostering positive change makes her a significant figure in the religious community.

TJ Shoop-York is the Senior Minister of First Christian Church + Grace Presbyterian Chapel in San Angelo, Texas. Alongside his role as a minister, he is also a loving husband to Heather Shoop-York, an art teacher, and a devoted father to their two adopted sons. TJ has a passion for woodworking and finds joy in house flipping as a hobby. He is known for his exceptional napping skills and has even been recognized for his "horizontal parenting" abilities.
TJ pursued his MDiv at Brite Divinity School of TCU, further deepening his knowledge and understanding of his faith. His preaching often emphasizes the significance of mission and outreach, with a consistent message that "We are the hands and feet of Jesus!"

TJ is a lifelong member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). TJ has partnered with FCC + GPC to fulfill a significant vision inspired by God. Responding to a divine call to "steak its flagged downtown," the church successfully completed a $2.5 million capital improvement project. Additionally, the church has prioritized unity and community connection, merging two congregations over the past four years to establish a shared ministry. TJ often refers to this newly formed entity as "ONE church with two denominational connections."

In his ministry, TJ is guided by two essential principles. Firstly, he seeks to preach the gospel and share the inspiring stories of what God is already accomplishing. Secondly, he finds inspiration in the words of Isaiah, believing that God is continuously doing something new.
TJ Shoop-York's is commitment to his faith, is dedicated to his family, and has a vision for unity and outreach within the church community.