Our Team

Pastor Chris Johnson accepted the call to First Baptist Van Buren in July of 2013. He was born in Minnesota and moved to Northwest Arkansas, where he graduated from high school. Chris went to Liberty University, and it was there that he came to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ while simultaneously being called into the ministry. Chris graduated from Liberty University with a bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies. From there he went to Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, where he met his amazing and talented wife, Lauren. Both he and Lauren graduated with a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern. Seven years and four kids later, Chris earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree in preaching from Southwestern Seminary. Chris and Lauren spent four years pastoring the First Baptist Church of Ozona, Texas, before being called to Van Buren. Chris' interests include working on old cars, hiking, baking cakes for his children's birthdays, dating Lauren, and keeping his Labrador out of trouble. Chris' passion is to see people won to a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ. He and his family, Lauren, Elijah, Gabriel, Abigail and Andrew, love Van Buren and are grateful to call the River Valley home.

My name is Jordan and I am married to my beautiful wife Madison. We have been married for six years and have two kids. Andrew and Josie are twins and they are one and a half years old. I have been serving in ministry together since 2018. Leading worship and playing my guitar are huge passions of mine. Some of my favorite hobbies include hunting, fishing, camping, and just being in the outdoors. Blessed to be apart of First Baptist Church Van Buren and help families grow in their relationships with Christ. 

I’m Chelsea Sheffield, Children’s Director at First Baptist Van Buren. My husband, Chadd, serves as a deacon and Sunday School teacher. We’ve been married for 16 years and have three wonderful children: Eliza (13), Alden (10), and Pierce (6). When we’re not at church, you’ll likely find us on a soccer field!

I’ve served in ministry here for 12 years and primarily work with elementary-aged children. I love seeing people of all ages discover that through faith in Christ, we are children of God. It’s a joy to help families connect and witness the Lord’s faithfulness at First Baptist Van Buren. 

My name is Heather Autry, and I have served as the Preschool Ministry Director at First Baptist Van Buren for four years. My husband, Brad, and I love raising our two wonderful daughters, Anniston (9) and Kenna (5).

When I’m not faithfully serving behind the welcome desk, you’ll find me on the sideline supporting my daughters or in the stands supporting my husband who coaches our Van Buren Pointer Basketball Team! We love our community, church, family and friends!