Pastor Amy
Rinehults
Executive Pastor
- Doctor of Ministry – Duke University (2022)
- Master of Divinity – Gardner-Webb University (2012)
- Bachelor of Arts – Lenoir-Rhyne College (2008)
Pastor Amy is a Pennsylvania-born transplant to North Carolina. Prior to coming to Corinth, she worked with a non-profit ministry and taught high school religion classes. Amy was ordained at Corinth in 2016. Though you’ll often see her leading in worship or missions, she also works behind-the-scenes with our Board of Deacons and Board of Property Management, along with supervising most of our support staff. Pastor Amy is married to Josh, and they have privilege of parenting the coolest twins ever, Izy & Seth, and the sweetest baby in the world, Brendan. In her free time, Amy loves traveling, day trips to the mountains, and discovering new (to her) restaurants and shops.
One of Pastor Amy’s favorite passages of Scripture is Colossians 3:15 – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Pastor Amy
Pastor Nick
Perrin
Senior Pastor
- Doctor of Philosophy – Marquette University (2003)
- Master of Divinity – Covenant Theological Seminary (1994)
- Bachelor of Arts – The Johns Hopkins University (1986)
Pastor Nick and his wife Camie have been married since 1992 and have two grown sons: Nathaniel and Luke. Nick is an ordained pastor (since 1994) as well as a published author and professor of New Testament. He has also served on various boards and, before coming to Corinth, served for five years as the president of Trinity International University, including Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Nick and Camie love music, gardening, and travel. And Nick loves BBQ.
One of Pastor Nick’s favorite passages of Scripture is Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Pastor Nick
Pastor Barbara
Bell
Visitation Pastor
- Doctor of Philosophy – Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (1999)
- Master of Divinity – Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (1991)
- Master of Science – Texas A&M University (1979)
- Bachelor of Arts – Texas A&M University (1976)
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Pastor Barbara
Jennifer Duralia
Women’s Ministry Director
(since 2022)
Jennifer is originally from a small town (much like Hickory) outside of Pittsburgh, PA. She moved to SC in the middle of her 9th grade year and has lived in Hickory since 2002. She is married to her high school sweetheart, David, and together they have two children – Hunter and Anna Kate. Jennifer is a graduate of Furman University and MUSC with a degrees in Biology and Physical Therapy. She and her family have been attending Corinth since 2013 and she was involved in the formation of Refresh for Moms and the Bible study that couples with it on Wednesday mornings. She has a passion for connecting women to God and to each other in relationships and loves being the Women’s Ministries Coordinator at Corinth.
Two of Jennifer’s favorite verses are Isaiah 43:1 “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.” And 2 Timothy 1:7 “ For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
Abigail Hardy
Student Ministry Coordinator
(since 2021)
Abigail was born and raised in Cullowhee, NC. She graduated from Wheaton College with a B.A. in Psychology and then earned her MAT from Asbury University. After teaching and coaching soccer in Danville, KY for four years, she and her husband, Greg, moved to Hickory in 2008 and started attending Corinth in the fall of that year. Greg and Abigail have 5 children–Lincoln, Amos, Tyler, Caleb, and Rachel.
Abigail enjoys reading, Tar Heel basketball, photography, middle schoolers, hiking, and having real conversations with her family and friends. She has been working at Corinth since January 2021.
One of Abigail’s favorite passages of scripture is Hebrews 12:1-3 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
Lauren Everley
Preschool Director
(since 2009)
Children’s Ministry Director
(since 2024)
- Bachelor of Arts – UNC Chapel Hill
Lauren is a Hickory native, married to her high school sweetheart (Matt), and mother to their three girls. She is a Tarheel through and through. She and her family are members of Corinth and absolutely love their church family! Lauren became Preschool Director in August 2009 and feels very blessed to be able to work with the children at Corinth and loves the staff team.
One of Lauren’s favorite passages of Scripture is Ephesians 6:10-11 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Lauren
Andrea Miller
Childcare Coordinator
(since 2021)
Bio coming soon
Jennie Lovelace
Nursery Staff
(since 2021)
Isabel Miller
Nursery Staff
(since 2021)
Micaela Miller
Nursery Staff
(since 2021)
Kim Stout
Nursery Staff
(since 2021)
Ruthann Stout
Nursery Staff
(since 2021)
Anya Black
Nursery Staff
(since 2022)
Peter Corneliussen
Worship Director
(since 2001)
- Doctor of Music Arts – University of Michigan
- Master of…
- Bachelor of…
Peter and his wife, Lisa, came to Hickory from Miami, Florida. Lisa and Peter met in Detroit at Calvin Presbyterian Church where Peter began work in music ministry while a graduate student. Lisa and Peter were married in 1985 and then moved to Manhattan, Kansas, where they lived for three years before moving to Miami. Lisa and Peter have two sons, Garrett and Shane—both born in Miami. Lisa is a fourth-grade teacher at Mountain View Elementary School.
Peter loves to write music, particularly musical theatre. He has written several children’s musicals and two large scale musicals. “The Darkest Side of Midnight” tells the story of the Gospels through the first-person narrative of Mary Magdalene. Peter’s largest music theatre work is “The Heart of the Maiden,” which tells the story of Joan of Arc.
One of Peter’s favorite passages of Scripture is 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 – “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Peter
Joe Lippard
Facilities Director
(since 1996)
Joe is a native of Statesville, NC, and began working in church at age 7. He holds a degree in Business Administration and Computer Programming and is a member of IFMA Facility Management Professionals, Charlotte Chapter. He came to Corinth in 1996 shortly after graduating college, hearing the Lord’s call to ministry. Joe has served his home church in the positions of Board Chair, Financial Director, and Organist.
He has a great love of sacred music and is presently an organ student of Prof. Florence Jowers. Joe possesses a vast historical and structural knowledge of Corinth’s facilities and operations. Joe is also the great-grandson of the late W. C. Abernathy, job superintendent for Corinth’s 1959 building.
One of Joe’s favorite passages of Scripture is Psalm 111:2-10 – “Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever. He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the LORD is gracious and compassionate. He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever. He has shown his people the power of his works, giving them the lands of other nations. The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. They are established for ever and ever, enacted in faithfulness and uprightness. He provided redemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever— holy and awesome is his name. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.”
Donavon Wakefield
Property Technician
(since 2022)
Donavon Wakefield is a native of Lenoir, North Carolina. He has built a diverse and accomplished career. Known for his dedication to telecommunications and his hands-on skills in various trades.
Donavon began his career at BellSouth Telecommunications in 1996, marking the start of a long and successful journey in the telecommunications industry. Over nearly two decades, Donavon held various management positions at AT&T, the parent company of BellSouth, working in several cities across the state, Donavon has cultivated a wide range of skills and interests. His proficiency in construction, electrical work, plumbing, and framing speaks to his hands-on approach and technical acumen.
Perhaps one of the most thrilling aspects of Donavon’s personal life is his passion for flying. In 2023, he took a significant step by pursuing his private pilot’s license, which he achieved in December of that year. This accomplishment was a dream come true, combining his love for adventure with a new set of technical skills. Currently, he is working towards his commercial pilot’s license. Travel is another of Donavon’s passions. He loves exploring new destinations, experiencing different cultures, and taking in the beauty of various landscapes. Family and friends are also central to Donavon’s life. He has been married to his wonderful wife, Shawna, for five years. Donavon is also a proud father to five children.
Reagan Lail
Technology Director
(since 2018)
Reagan was born and raised a resident of Burke County. He attended Burke Middle College to complete an Associate of Arts degree from Western Piedmont while in his last two years of high school. Reagan heard the call to ministry when he was 12 and went on to serve for 7 summers at Hickory Cove Bible Camp before coming on full-time staff as the Registrar/Guest Group Coordinator. He began part-time work for Corinth in June of 2018 and transitioned to full time as the Technology Coordinator in August of the same year.
One of Reagan’s favorite passages of Scripture is Romans 12:21 – “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Reagan
Lisa Propst
Hospitality Director
(since 2003)
Lisa was born and raised in Hickory. She attended Appalachian State University and Lenoir-Rhyne University where she graduated with a B.A. in Accounting and Business Administration. Her children, Sarah and Christopher, grew up at Corinth. Sarah has been at UNC-Chapel Hill since Fall 2017, and Christopher graduated from Hickory High School (HHS) in May 2020. Lisa has been feeding Corinth since 2003. As Kitchen Manager, she is responsible for comprehensive management of Wednesday Night Dinners and other events. In her free time, Lisa enjoys photography, camping, two sweet dogs, and HHS Marching Band. Her favorite part of the Corinth traditional service is the music. “I am always touched by the hymns, choir, and special musicians Peter invites to play.”
One of Lisa’s favorite passages of Scriptures is Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Ginny Heinrich
Kitchen Assistant
(since 2020)
Ginny is originally from the Erie, PA, area. She left Pennsylvania and headed to Hickory to get away from the 100 inches of snow and 6 months of cold weather. She has 3 children (2 girls and a boy), 10 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild.
Ginny’s previous employment included 10 years with a large pizza manufacturer, 14 years as a secretary for an OB/Gyn office, cooking for a small Christian school, and finally working in her local school district cafeteria for 6 years. That was her favorite job. Then she came to Corinth, and she knew her heart was home.
One of Ginny’s favorite Bible verses is Psalm 84:11-12 “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in You.”
Patter Cross
Assimilation Director
(since 2019)
Patter was born in Ohio but left when she was 6 weeks old. She then lived in 8 different states before moving to Europe in 3rd grade. Patter lived in England and Germany where she graduated from high school. She then moved to the U.S. to attend college and graduated in 1988. Patter and her husband, Michael, were married in 1989. Then 5 years later, in 1994, they were surprised and blessed with identical triplet girls (Erin, Caitlyn, and Ashley). Patter has been serving the Lord in various ministries and leadership roles since 1999. She has been a member of Corinth since January 2013 and in her role at Corinth since April 2019. Patter delights in connecting with members, visitors, and regular attenders. She has a passion for helping people find ways to belong and serve.
In her spare time, she loves to walk her two rough collies each morning and be surrounded by the Lord’s beautiful creations. She is also a mixed media artist where she focuses on sharing Christ through her work.
One of Patter’s favorite passages of Scripture is James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Patter
Julie Rickert
Business Director
(since 2021)
Julie and her family are transplants from the shores of Lake Superior in Northern Wisconsin. Looking for a milder climate, they pulled up roots in the summer of 2020 and are now loving life in Hickory. Julie’s husband, David, works for the Sofidel America Corporation, and they have 2 daughters, Miah and Taylor.
One of Julie’s favorite Bible verses is Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
Mikeala Nance
Media Director
(since 2026)
A transplant from southern Virginia, Mikeala arrived in Hickory in 2018 to serve on the staff of Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Marketing and Communications team. A skilled digital media producer, she has nearly ten years nonprofit marketing and communications experience to her credit. Throughout that time, her goal has been to efficiently tell stories that are original, compelling, and encouraging.
After moving to Hickory, she began an extensive search for a church. That journey eventually led her to Corinth following a providential encounter at the local DMV, where a Corinth member invited her to visit.
When not working or doing freelance photography, she can often be found singing in church, working out at the gym, and performing onstage at local community theatres (where she met her husband).
One of Mikeala’s favorite passages of Scripture is Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Mikeala
Katie Elder
Communications Coordinator
(since 2019)
Katie has been a member of Corinth since 1995. She was confirmed by Pastor Bob and has watched Corinth grow in faith and size. She was married to her husband, Josh, at Corinth and now attends regularly with their 3 children—Allie, Evan, and Emmy. Katie has a background in Communication Studies and enjoys interacting with people and making them feel welcome. She is active in church Bible studies, Children’s Ministry, Women’s Ministry, and Refresh for Moms. Katie loves being a mom and seeing her kids get excited about church!
One of Katie’s favorite passages of scripture is Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Phone: 828.328.6196
E-mail Katie