Tim, a native of the central Ohio town of Marion, has a history of 25 years in pastoral and clinical ministry. Tim served in pastoral positions in four churches located in Marion, Wapakoneta, Springfield, and Enon, Ohio. In 1989, Tim relocated to Springfield to serve as staff chaplain and hospice chaplain at the Community Hospital. In 1993 Tim assumed duties as Director of Spiritual Services for The Community Hospital in Springfield, Ohio. During Tim’s years in clinical ministry, Tim has served at Lima St. Rita’s, Mercy Hospice, Mt. Carmel Medical center and The Community Hospital of Springfield, Ohio. Tim managed the Spiritual Services Department and Chaplaincy staff in these assignments. He conducted bereavement counseling, crisis intervention, and staff education, managed the Hospice Chaplaincy and bereavement program, and provided care to all in-patient and outpatient clients throughout the hospital system.
Tim came to Fowler Road Church as staff pastor in 1997 and continues to serve the congregation in pastoral leadership and teaching roles.
Tim is an ordained minister in the Churches of Christ in Christian Union, and holds certifications in Healthcare Management, Crisis Management, Bereavement Counseling and Clinical Pastoral Education. Tim attended Ohio State University, Franklin University, Bethany Bible College, Trinity International Seminary, and Xavier University. He holds degrees at the Bachelors, Masters and Certificate levels. Tim enjoys Ragtime, Dixieland, and Jazz music, and playing drums in a local Ragtime band.
Tim married his bride of 27 years in 1983. Tim and Janine have two children, Ben and Alyssa. Janine is an alumnus of Ohio Christian University and Urbana University. Ben is a student at Wittenberg University and Aly enjoys playing tuba in the band, and playing soccer. Both Ben and Aly share the strong faith values and Christian commitment of their parents.
Merle was born the tenth son to Paul and Rachel Schenck. He was brought up in the United Brethern Church and accepted Christ into his life at the age of twelve. Merle graduated from Jefferson Township High School, (Dayton, Ohio) in May 1955.
In the years spent serving at other churches, he taught both adult and children's Sunday School classes, been a Youth Advisor, and Sunday School Superintendent. He has also held a position on a church board, and served as Moderator of the Board.
Merle was married to Gladys on October 26, 1956, and celebrated their 50th anniversary in October 2006. They have been blessed with five sons, one daughter, five grand-daughters, three grand-sons, three great-grand-daughters and one great-grand-son.
Merle is looking forward to serving Fowler Road Church in teaching, preaching, and visitations.
