Rev. Brett Rinehart

Senior Pastor
Brett was born in Cumberland, MD. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Glenville State College and a Masters of Divinity Biblical Studies from Liberty University.
 
Brett is married to Lasa, a licensed massage therapist, and they have three children, Liam (almost 4), Lincoln (22 months) and Lakelyn (4 months). Brett has served as the Youth Pastor of Sand Fork Baptist Church since 2016 and has often been seen in the halls of Gilmer County Schools as a substitute teacher. Brett was licensed in 2017 and is in the process of ordination.
 
The major priorities of his ministry include: spiritual development, community outreach, discipleship, missions, and congregational care. In addition, he has helped advance areas of ministry in his church including: youth, leadership training, church growth, and unity.
 
 

Nancy Lewis

Director of Music
 

Music is Nancy’s life passion. In particular, sharing her faith through contemporary music. This passion took her on tour with a Christian music group while attending West Virginia University (WVU) where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Upon graduation, Nancy went to Louisville, Kentucky. She taught mathematics and coached basketball while continuing to sing at various venues and ultimately accepted a position as Choir Director in a local church. During her tenure in Louisville, she worked toward a Masters in Mathematics at the University of Louisville and a Minister of Music Masters at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Nancy moved to Elkins, WV where she married and was blessed with a daughter. She completed her Master’s in Curriculum Development at Salem University, accepted a position as a math teacher and coach at the High School, then began to additionally work in the real estate business.

First Baptist Church of Elkins welcomed Nancy to a role in the music program as worship leader and vocalist with the Praise Team. In 2016, Nancy accepted the position as Director of Music as bi-vocational while she continues to teach. In response to the clear calling of God on Nancy’s life as a minister of music, First Baptist Church licensed her to the Music Ministry on April 9, 2017. Nancy is now responsible for the full program of music at the church which includes worship, praise team, various choirs, drama, puppeteering and other music related ministries.
 
Cheri Cooper-Hart
Ministerial Administrative Assistant/Office Manager
Cheri is a long-time member of First Baptist Church and now enjoys her new role as our Administrative Assistant starting in May 2023. Cheri comes to her new role from the business sector performing and developing many administrative duties and skills. As the owner, instructor of Cheri’s Dance Studio, she has spent the last 27 years mentoring, teaching, and nurturing numerous students that have passed through her doors. She and her husband Gary enjoy camping, traveling, golf and family time. Cheri’s passion centers around children and youth. Her strong platform is Teen Suicide Awareness. Cheri hopes that God will use her passion growing a ministry which will reach out and support our local youth.
 
Natasha J. Evans
Youth and Children’s Director

Growing up in pastoral home, surrounded by the hills of West Virginia, Natasha Evans has always had a heart for ministry. Especially ministry that reaches deep into the hearts of kids. In fact, Natasha started working in Children’s Ministry when she was barely past being called a child herself. Since that time, she has never been far from that calling.

In December of 2024, Natasha Evans was blessed with an opportunity to continue her career in youth ministry at Elkins First Baptist Church. From the moment she arrived at FBC, she knew it felt like home, and looks forward to building relationships with the children and youth of this community.

Outside of youth ministry, Natasha enjoys photography and painting, which she pursues through her art business called “Mountain Artistry”. Aside from creating, Natasha also enjoys music, and spending time with her family outdoors.

 

 
 
 
Janie Newlon
SLLC Director
Aide
Aide
 
 
Aide