Our core values
We sum up our core values with the simple phrase: Passion for Jesus, Compassion for People.
We strive to express the compassion of Jesus Christ to all persons along with our personal commitment to Christlike living. While the primary motive of the church is to glorify God, we are also called to actively participate in His mission – reconciling the world to himself.
Our staff
Jimmy Skeen, Lead Pastor Email Pastor Jimmy here
Jimmy grew up in the Northwest and loves fishing, the seasons, and the mountains. He graduated from Nazarene Theological Seminary with an M.Div and is currently working on a Doctorate of Strategic Leadership from Corban University. Jimmy loves to laugh and share Jesus with everyone he meets.
Rick Garmon, Journey Pastor Email Pastor Rick here
Originally from Iowa, I came to serve at Valley Shepherd in 2017. My work here centers on Adult Ministries, Small Groups, Discipleship and Visitation. My wife, Karen, and I have three grown children and four grandchildren. We love taking walks together, watching sports, camping and most importantly, spending time with family.
Stephen List, Pastor for Creatives and Gathered Worship Email Pastor Stephen here
Our family moved to the Treasure Valley in August 2013 when my wife Elizabeth took a teaching position at NNU. In February 2014, the Lord led me to accept the call to Valley Shepherd as Worship Pastor. Leading God’s people in dynamic times of musical worship is my passion. I grew up in California and Washington, attending Azusa Pacific University where I earned a degree in Music Education. In 2008, I earned a Master’s Degree in Worship Leadership from Western Seminary and am currently working on a Master’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Florida. Since 1996, we have served in three churches in Southern California and Portland, Oregon. We have two wonderful children, Natalie and Jacob. I enjoy cooking, entertaining, bike riding, hiking, and technology. We are blessed to be a part of this church family!
Kaleb Harper, Children Integration Pastor Email Pastor Kaleb here
I was born and raised in Nampa, Idaho. I love to watch/play all kinds of sports (basketball being the favorite), play board games and do puzzles, spend time outdoors hiking and camping, and I absolutely love spending time with people. I went to Northwest Nazarene University where I graduated with a degree in Christian Ministry and minor in Children's Ministry. I then continued school through NNU and received a master's degree in Children, Youth and Family Ministry. I love getting to serve with children and youth and my passion in ministry is to engage, equip, and empower children and their families to a deeper relationship with Christ.
Ryan Schwin, Student Integration Pastor Email Pastor Ryan here
I’m an Oregon native, but after attending Northwest Nazarene University, I loved it here so much that I made Idaho my home! I love hunting, fishing, sports (especially football), movies, games, puzzles, you name it! I am passionate about serving the Kingdom of God, and I have a special place in my heart for student ministries. It’s my mission to make sure that students of all ages feel loved, heard, seen, and valued as individuals and as an integral part of the Body of Christ.
Joy Lindner, Pastor of Communication and Information Email Pastor Joy here
I grew up in the Nazarene church in Pendleton, Oregon and attended NNU and Nazarene Theological Seminary. Ordained in 2011, I served as pastor of the Juliaetta, Idaho Church of the Nazarene for 8 years, then worked in administration for the Northwest District Office for the Church of the Nazarene before moving to Meridian. I enjoy reading, doing jigsaw puzzles, gardening, and playing games with my two nephews.
Judie Staub, Secretary Email Judie here
I grew up in Sacramento, then moved to Elk Grove in 1969 where we raised our family. I worked for the State of California for 34 years, retiring in December 2005. Widowed, I moved to Meridian in 2006 as I have family in the area. I’ve worked in the church office since August of 2015. I play in the Handbell Choir, enjoy bowling, and am learning to quilt.
Teresa Clark, Director of Facilities Email Teresa here
Growing up in sunny Southern California, I have always had a deep connection to the ocean and spent every spare moment at the beach. While I loved living in So Cal, I truly love the Northwest that I’ve called home for over 40 years! One of my greatest joys is spending time with my family, friends, and our four-legged companions, especially when we all gather on a beach—it's truly the best of both worlds. I believe that teens and young adults are some of God's most wonderful creations, and I'm passionate about connecting with them to inspire faith and growth. I have a heart for people, and I'm grateful for the connections and friendships I've made within our church community. I'm excited to continue this journey of faith and fellowship with all of you. You are family!
