Pastors, Secretary, Elders, and Board Members

Senior Pastor: Eldon Cook

Eldon is originally from Princeton, IL. He completed a B.A. in Speech Communications at Eastern Illinois University and then attended seminary at Lincoln Christian Seminary. He enjoys hunting, fishing, golf, and other outdoor activities. He is married to Kathey and they have four children: Carina, Gabe, Regan, and Titus.


Associate Pastor: Nathan Richey

Nathan is originally from Mattoon, IL. He completed a B.A. in History at Eastern Illinois University and then completed a Master of Divinity at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. He enjoys playing music, reading, games of all kinds (especially disc golf), and spending time with his family. He is married to Laura and they have two daughters, Natalie and Noelle.


Youth Pastor: Brett Kepner

Brett is originally from the Walnut area. He is currently enrolled at Liberty University to complete his B. A. in Christian Ministries. He enjoys being active, both physically and in the community, swimming, spending time with his family and friends, and working with the youth in the surrounding communities. He is currently engaged to be married to Josie Lind.


Church Secretary: Melissa Sweenie

Melissa Sweenie is originally from Fulton, IL, but has lived in Walnut since 1998. Melissa graduated with a Business Degree from Mt. St. Clare College. Prior to working at WCBC, she worked in Sales, Healthcare, and the Bureau Valley School District. Melissa enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and working on genealogy. She is married to Dean, and they have two daughters, Sydney and Kayla. Her family has attended WCBC since 2004.


Church Elders:

Our elders are responsible to be shepherds of the spiritual resources of the church (doctrine, discipline, and the direction of the church).
  • Larry Anderson
  • Eldon Cook
  • Jody Davis
  • Brent Jamison
  • Brett Kepner
  • Allen Twidell
  • Nathan Richey
Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Hebrews 13:7

2020 Board Members:

Our board members are responsible to be stewards of the physical resources of the church (finances, employees, building and grounds, etc.)

Greg Allen, Rob Allen, Steve Capes, John Dietz, Don Finley, David Jameson, and Allen Twidell as President