Dovie Thompson is the Co-Founder of New Life Christian Academy, which she established in 1998 alongside her husband, Pastor Bill Thompson. From the very beginning, Dovie has held a steadfast belief in the life-changing power of Christian education. Her vision was clear: to create a Christ-centered environment where students not only excel academically but also grow spiritually, developing a strong foundation of faith and character.

As Admissions Director and Education Administrator, Dovie leads with both heart and excellence. She oversees enrollment, family engagement, and student onboarding—ensuring that every child and parent feels welcomed, supported, and valued. Her hands-on approach and genuine care for each student’s journey reflect her deep commitment to ministry and community.

Beyond admissions, Dovie plays a vital role in staff development and in upholding the academy’s high standards of education and spiritual formation. Her leadership is marked by integrity, compassion, and a clear vision for nurturing the next generation to live with purpose and faith.

Personal Testimony:
“When God placed the vision for New Life Christian Academy in our hearts, it was more than just starting a school—it was about building a place where children could encounter Christ daily while receiving an excellent education. We started with a simple prayer and a big dream, trusting that God would provide every resource and every person needed to make it happen. Over the years, I’ve seen countless lives transformed, and that reminds me every day why this work matters. It’s not just education; it’s ministry.”

Family is central to Dovie’s life. She is a proud mother of three married children and a joyful grandmother to six grandchildren. Her life is a beautiful testimony of faith, family, and service—a reflection of her heart for God and His people.

Favorite Scripture:
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

Mychele Thompson serves as our esteemed Academy Director, bringing a powerful blend of academic excellence, visionary leadership, and heartfelt dedication to our mission. A proud graduate of Lake Erie College in Painesville, Ohio, Mychele holds dual degrees in Mathematics and Accounting—credentials that reflect her sharp intellect and commitment to lifelong learning.

Under her guidance, New Life Christian Academy thrives as a place of inspiration, growth, and excellence. Mychele’s leadership is marked by integrity, compassion, and a deep passion for empowering both students and staff to reach their God-given potential.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mychele is a devoted wife and the loving mother of three wonderful children. Her ability to balance family life with the demands of leadership is a true testament to her character and strength.

Personal Testimony:
“My journey into Christian education was born out of a desire to see children not only excel academically but also grow in their relationship with Christ. I believe education is more than textbooks and tests—it’s about shaping hearts and minds for God’s purpose. Every day, I count it a privilege to partner with families and staff to create an environment where faith and learning go hand in hand. Watching students discover their identity in Christ and step into their calling is the greatest reward.”

Favorite Scripture:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

Rachyl Murphy serves as the Childcare Administrator at New Life Childcare Center, where her passion for early childhood development and heart for ministry shine through every aspect of her leadership. With a strong foundation in early education and a deep commitment to Christ-centered care, Rachyl ensures that each child is nurtured in a safe, loving, and spiritually enriching environment.

She oversees daily operations, staff training, and curriculum development with excellence and intentionality. Known for her proactive approach, Rachyl customizes training modules, guides new staff through onboarding, and maintains high standards in supervision, hygiene, and classroom engagement.

Rachyl also plays a key role in strategic planning and budget oversight, helping the center grow while staying true to its mission. Her warm, personal connection with families—especially during tours and onboarding—reflects the values of integrity, compassion, and faith that define New Life Childcare.

Personal Testimony:
“My heart for childcare began with a simple desire: to create a place where children feel loved, safe, and valued—not just physically and emotionally, but spiritually. I believe that the early years are the most formative, and what better way to shape a child’s future than by introducing them to the love of Jesus from the very beginning? Every smile, every prayer, every milestone reminds me that this is more than a job—it’s a calling.”

A devoted wife and proud mother of two energetic boys, Rachyl’s life and leadership embody the heart of New Life Church: serving families with excellence, grace, and biblical truth.

Favorite Scripture:
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” – Matthew 19:14

Pastors Bill and Dovie Thompson have been faithfully serving the New Life Church community since its founding in 1996. With a shared vision rooted in biblical truth, spiritual growth, and genuine love for people, they have dedicated their lives to building a church that reflects the heart of Christ.

Pastor Bill is known for his passionate preaching, pastoral wisdom, and unwavering commitment to shepherding the congregation. His messages are grounded in Scripture and delivered with clarity, compassion, and conviction—challenging believers to grow deeper in their faith and walk boldly in their calling.

Dovie Thompson, co-founder of New Life Christian Academy, brings a unique and powerful dimension to their ministry. Her leadership in Christian education has impacted generations of students and families, and her heart for nurturing both academic and spiritual development continues to shape the culture of the academy and the church.

Together, Bill and Dovie have cultivated a thriving ministry that reaches across generations. Their leadership is marked by humility, integrity, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. Whether preaching from the pulpit, mentoring leaders, or connecting with families, they serve with grace and purpose.

They are proud parents of three married children and joyful grandparents to six wonderful grandchildren. Their family is a living testimony of the values they uphold—faith, love, and legacy. The Thompsons’ influence extends far beyond the walls of the church, touching lives throughout the community and inspiring others to pursue Christ wholeheartedly.

Under their guidance, New Life Church continues to grow as a place of worship, discipleship, and transformation. Their enduring commitment to ministry and their love for people remain the foundation of everything they do.

Tim and Kelly Williams are a vital part of our Painesville campus, serving with hearts full of love for God and people. Their journey is a beautiful testimony of faith, family, and service.

Tim brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career at the Cleveland Clinic and his current role at Dollar Bank. His professional background reflects his commitment to excellence and integrity—qualities that now shine through in his ministry as our Administrative Pastor. Tim’s leadership is marked by humility, wisdom, and a genuine desire to see others grow in their walk with Christ.

Kelly is equally passionate about serving others. Her warmth and compassion make everyone feel welcome and valued. Together, Tim and Kelly form a dynamic team, complementing each other’s strengths and inspiring those around them with their dedication to God’s work.

Family is at the center of their lives. They have been blessed with one child and two precious grandchildren who bring immense joy and laughter to their home. Tim and Kelly cherish every moment with their family, believing that strong families are the foundation of strong communities.

Whether they are leading, encouraging, or simply sharing life’s journey, Tim and Kelly embody the love of Christ in everything they do. Their story is one of faithfulness—faithfulness to God, to each other, and to the calling of serving His people.

Favorite Scripture:

“Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.” – Ephesians 6:7

Billy and Mychele Thompson serve as the leaders of our Mentor, Ohio work and have a powerful calling as Children’s Evangelists, ministering across the United States and around the world. Their ministry is marked by creativity, energy, and a deep passion for reaching the next generation with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

For years, Billy and Mychele have dedicated their lives to helping children experience the love of God in a way that is engaging, life-changing, and unforgettable. Through dynamic services, interactive lessons, and Spirit-filled events, they have seen countless young lives transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Personal Testimony:
“Our heart for children’s ministry began with a simple prayer: ‘Lord, help us reach the next generation.’ We quickly realized that kids are not just the church of tomorrow—they are the church of today. God opened doors for us to travel across the nation and even internationally, sharing the message of Jesus in a way that kids can understand and embrace. Every time we see a child filled with the Holy Spirit or a family restored, we are reminded why we do what we do. This is more than a ministry—it’s our life’s calling.”

When they’re not on the road ministering, Billy and Mychele pour their hearts into the Mentor campus, building a strong, Christ-centered community. They are passionate about equipping families, training leaders, and creating environments where children and adults alike can encounter God.

Favorite Scripture:
“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” - Matthew 19:14

Codey and Brianna Knieriem serve as our Worship Pastors, leading our congregation into powerful, Spirit-filled worship that ushers in the presence of God. Their passion for worship is rooted in a deep love for Jesus and a desire to see lives transformed through authentic encounters with Him.

Together, they bring a unique blend of musical excellence and heartfelt ministry, creating an atmosphere where people can freely express their love for God. Codey’s leadership and musical gifting, combined with Brianna’s heart for worship and creativity, make them an incredible team dedicated to glorifying God in every service.

They are proud parents of two beautiful children. Family is central to their lives, and they strive to model Christ-centered living both on and off the platform.

Personal Testimony:
“Our journey in worship ministry began with a simple ‘yes’ to God. We’ve always believed that worship is more than music—it’s a lifestyle of surrender. Over the years, we’ve seen how one moment in God’s presence can change everything. Our prayer is that every time we lead, people experience the love of Jesus in a real and personal way. It’s an honor to serve and to help others draw closer to Him.”

Favorite Scripture:
“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” – John 4:24

Jacob and Celeste Sievers serve as our passionate Youth Pastors, leading the next generation to know Christ, grow in faith, and live boldly for Him. Their heart for students is evident in everything they do—from dynamic youth services and discipleship programs to creating a safe, welcoming environment where teens can encounter God in a real and life-changing way.

Jacob brings strong leadership and a gift for teaching God’s Word in a way that connects with young people, while Celeste’s warmth and creativity help foster authentic relationships and community. Together, they are committed to equipping students to stand firm in their faith and discover their God-given purpose.

They are joyfully married, proud parents of one child, and excitedly preparing to welcome twins into their growing family! Their home and ministry reflect their core values: faith, family, and a relentless pursuit of God’s calling.

Personal Testimony:
“Our passion for youth ministry began with a simple desire to see students experience the same life-changing power of Jesus that transformed our own lives. We know firsthand the challenges young people face, and we believe the answer is found in a real relationship with Christ. Every service, every conversation, every prayer is an opportunity to point students to Him. Watching them grow in faith and step into their calling is the greatest reward.”

Favorite Scripture:

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." - 1 Timothy 4:12