Our Pastors
Who are our Pastors? Usually, we don’t call them pastors. We usually call them “elders,” although we often will use the terms interchangeably. Why do we typically use the title of Elder instead of the title of Pastor? We have chosen to use the title that is most consistent with the Scriptures. The title of Pastor is Biblical, but it is used sparingly. The title of Elder or Overseer is used much more consistently throughout the Bible.
We have three basic reasons for using the title of Elder over Pastor:
- We base our authority on the Bible and not on human wisdom.
- It allows the church to know what to expect from its leaders. If the biblical terms are used, then there will be less confusion over the roles of our leaders. For example, you can see that Deacons are not responsible for teaching, preaching, and leading the church. Rather, they are to be servants of the church, and to assist in maintaining the unity of the church.
- When we use biblical terminology for leaders we are then able to hold them to biblical qualifications. These qualifications are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, and 1 Peter 5:1-5.
For a further exploration of these points and others, see the book: 40 Questions About Elders and Deacons by: Benjamin L. Merkle.
Our Elders
Our Elders are all family men committed to their wives with happy homes. Our Elders exhibit the highest standard of Christian conduct and integrity and are deeply committed to helping others in their walk and on their journey in Christ Jesus.
Clay Ganton
Clay Ganton is one of the founding Elders of Bridge Church. He and his wife, Carolyn, began dreaming about planting a new church in Kamloops back in 2002. With God’s help that dream became a reality in 2005. Clay and Carolyn are actively involved in leading in the Kid’s Ministry. Clay enjoys soccer and talking about God.
Joshua Claycamp
Joshua serves as the primary teaching Elder. Joshua and his wife, Shanti, moved to Kamloops in August of 2008 to begin ministry in a support role to the other Elders, and was appointed to the lead teaching role in June of 2009. Joshua is passionate about the Scriptures, and could talk Bible all night if you gave him the chance. Joshua enjoys reading, camping, and he loves American Football. Both Joshua and Shanti enjoy their friends at Life Group.
Michael Oatway
Michael Oatway began attending the Bridge back in 2007, and was appointed to serve as an Elder of the church in June of 2009. Michael and his wife, Melissa, are long-time Kamloops residents. They enjoy spending time with their three boys – Noah, Solomon, and Josiah – and are known to go camping and hiking in God’s creation together, and enjoying close fellowship with their friends. Michael is passionate about God’s word, financial literacy, and enjoying close fellowship with their friends at Life Group.
