Pastor Mark is a seasoned pastor who loves the Lord and HIS work. Elwood Central is the third church he has served.  He began his pastoral career as the youth pastor at Eastview in 1984, and became an assistant pastor at Eastview before relocating to Macon, Georgia to plant a church in 1997.  Rev.  Atkinson served at Macon Wesleyan Church for 12 years before returning to Eastview in 2009 as the Lead Pastor until his retirement in 2022.
Rev. Atkinson earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana Wesleyan University in 1996.  He has served on various committees and boards at the District and National level for The Wesleyan Church.  He has also served on various boards and been involved in community clubs and events.
He is passionate about his family, his community, and the church.  He and his amazing wife, Ronda, have been married for 47 years and have four children and 17 grandchildren!  Their journey on this calling has been quite adventurous.

Pastor Destiny is a recent graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University with a BA in Christian Ministries. She is now attending Wesley Seminary to get her MDIV. Elwood Central is her home church and she has come back to serve as Assistant Pastor. She previously served as the youth leader during her time in college.
Pastor Destiny is passionate about friendships, community, and the church. She had a heart to see others grow deeper in their relationship with Jesus. One way she hopes to see that happen is through small groups, a ministry she leads at Elwood Central. Ultimately her love for Jesus and the privilege to join Him in His ministry drives her passions.

Sondra Tarter leads Central Kids and serves on the Advisory Council at Elwood Central Wesleyan Church. She has a heart for helping children know that they are loved, valued, and created for a purpose—and, most importantly, helping them build a genuine relationship with Jesus.

Outside of church, Sondra works in special education, where she has the opportunity to encourage and support students with a wide range of abilities and needs. Her work with students has strengthened her passion for creating spaces where every child feels welcomed, included, and able to grow.

Having grown up in children’s ministry herself, Sondra understands the lasting impact a church can have on a child’s life. Her desire for Central Kids is to create more than just a place for children to come on Sundays. She wants it to be a ministry where kids are excited to belong, build meaningful relationships, learn about Jesus in ways they understand, and develop a faith they can carry with them throughout their lives.

Kay Martinez has served faithfully as our first impressions leader for a few years now! With a big heart for people, Kay brings compassion to her role. Kay is a proud mother of 7 and a grandmother many times over — her family is her greatest joy and biggest blessing. In the "First Impressions" ministry, she helps welcome new faces every Sunday with warmth and a smile. Whether behind the scenes or front and center, Kay’s heart for connection shines through in all she does.

Julie Wrin has a heart for loving, encouraging, and walking alongside teens. She and her husband, Jon, are raising their teenage son, Cooper. Having called Elwood home for more than 20 years, Julie has a deep love for the kids and families in this community.
Through the teen ministry, Julie wants students to have a place where they can be themselves, build genuine relationships, have fun, serve others, and experience the love of Jesus in a real and meaningful way. Her heart is simple: love kids right where they are, show them God's love, and help them discover who He created them to be.

Wade Tarter has faithfully served as the Maintenance Team Leader for more than five years, dedicating his time and talents to caring for the church's facilities and properties. As a proud husband, father of three daughters, and grandfather of two grandchildren, Wade brings the same commitment and care to his ministry that he does to his family. He has a heart for serving behind the scenes, working diligently to ensure that the church's buildings and grounds are well-maintained, safe, and operating smoothly. Through his faithful service, Wade helps create a welcoming environment where others can gather, worship, and grow in their faith

Brenda has a heart to care for people in practical ways. She has been on many mission trips around the world with Africa being her favorite. When notified Brenda visits ones going to surgery & have prayer before they go. She picks up food from mobile food pantry & deliver to ones who need it but have difficulty getting out to get it. Brenda manages the prayer chain, putting requests on it for others to pray for them. She believes in the power of prayer and helps others without hesitation!