Staff & Ministry Leaders

Zach Conant
Ministry Director
Zach has served at Immanuel Church since its inception in 2016, first in a volunteer capacity, then as a staff member. He serves in several areas at Immanuel, but primarily oversees worship and ICYA (Immanuel Church Young Adults). He holds a B.B.A. from King University and is currently pursuing a M.Div. degree at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Zach grew up just outside of Knoxville, and in his spare time, he enjoys basketball, golf, music, and meteorology.

Renee Orndorff
Administrative Assistant
Reneé grew up outside Dallas, Texas. She moved to Tennessee to attend Bryan College where she graduated with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Math and Science. While in college Reneé dedicated her life to God. She and her husband, Andrew, live in Knoxville with their son, Isaiah.

Derek Griz
Pastor
Derek serves as one of the pastors at Immanuel. He and his wife, Jess, have three school-aged children. He enjoys running, reading, hanging with the fam, and anything outdoors. He sometimes writes at HoboTheology.com. Derek has a B.A. in Literature from the University of Tennessee, a M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from Johnson University. He is one of the founding pastors at Immanuel.

Eddie Irwin
Ministry Assistant
Eddie grew up in East Tennessee. He is married to his wonderful wife, Cindy, and they have six children. Eddie and Cindy were part of the pioneer team at Immanuel. Eddie began serving as a volunteer in student ministry and soon after joined the staff team. Eddie also supports our accounting and finance team. He has received theological training from Liberty University and is also pursuing further training in counseling. In his spare time, Eddie enjoys various sports such as baseball, football, and hockey, and he loves to play music, including with the Student Worship Team.

Jared Raby
Pastor
Jared grew up in Knoxville. He was raised in a Christian home and came to Christ at the age of ten. He has a degree in Pastoral Ministry and has served in local church ministry for over twenty years. He is one of the founding pastors at Immanuel. Jared and his wife Sara have five children: Addison, Ethan, Elijah, Oliver, and Annie. Jared loves family nights, running, baseball (Go Reds), and football (Go Vols).
Julie Gillen
iKids Coordinator
Sara Raby
Kids Ministry Director
Congregational Pastors
Chris Beach
Tommy Cook
Rob Gillen
Chairman