Bruce Hollins • Transitional Pastor
Both Bruce and Monica were born and raised in Winnipeg. Although they grew up just a few miles from one another, they first met in 1985, dated for four years and were married in 1989. Bruce has been a pastor for more than 40 years, serving most of that time in the Winnipeg area. He served as a student Pastor for 21 before transitioning into an Executive Pastor role.
For the past 10 years, Bruce has served as an Interim or Transitional Pastor at a number of churches. A little over a year ago, he established, Churches in Transition, as a way of helping churches the midst of a pastoral transition. Bruce and Monica have been married for 35 years. They have three adult children, Joshua (who is married to Kaylee), Melissa (who is married to Matthew), and Kathryn. They also have a granddaughter, Dani, and it’s not uncommon to find them at the zoo together. Bruce is an avid nature photographer and has a YouTube page dedicated to his many animal adventures.
Doug Friesen • Associate Pastor – Discipleship and Outreach
Doug came to Whyte Ridge in 1998 after graduation from Providence Seminary, Otterburne, MB. He has recently completed a degree (Doctor of Ministry/Leadership in Community Spiritual Formation) from Denver Seminary, Littleton, CO.
Doug enjoys connecting with friends and family. He likes working out, playing racquetball/squash, golf, jogging, and biking. He is an avid traveler, and enjoys reading at Starbucks or Tim’s as well as playing games. He even likes to work on projects around his house when time permits.
Kevin Klassen • Associate Pastor – Worship & Care
Kevin started attending at Whyte Ridge in 1995 and has been on staff since 2006, currently serving as Associate Pastor of Worship and Care. In this role, he coordinates and provides leadership for worship gatherings, oversees care ministry and engages in counselling and visitation. Kevin received a Master of Arts in the counselling program at Providence Theological Seminary in 2002 and was recently ordained in the North American Baptist conference.
Kevin is married to Lynelle and they have two children – Josh and Beth. He loves spending time with his family, likes playing and writing music and also always enjoys a road trip!
Rudy Wall • Associate Pastor – Student Ministries
Sheilla Taylor • Director of Children’s Ministries
Sheilla started attending Whyte Ridge Baptist Church in 2007. She took on the role of Nursery Coordinator in 2011, Children’s Ministry Leadership Team Member in 2015 and came on staff in January 2019. She is passionate about helping kids develop a relationship with Jesus in a fun and creative environment.
Sheilla loves spending time with her husband Colin and their 3 children (Leo, Wyatt & Annelise). She enjoys coffee, a good book, camping, playing soccer and upcycling furniture!
Karen Owzarek • Director of Administration
Karen and her family started attending Whyte Ridge in 2013. She has served in various ministries and enjoys being part of the JAM (Justice and Mercy) team and playing piano. She became the Director of Administration in 2022 and loves organizing and planning and building relationships with staff and volunteers! She has a B.Ch.M. from Winnipeg Bible College and her A.R.C.T. in piano.
Karen is married to Gerald and they have three wonderful daughters (Rebecca, Amy, Julia). She loves travelling, piano, reading, football, windsurfing and a good cup of tea.
Debbie Neufeld • Administrative Assistant
Debbie began attending Whyte Ridge in 2021. Her background in church ministry and missionary work for most of her life have prepared her for her support role at the church in administration and especially serving the staff and volunteers.
She is married to Henry and lives close enough to walk to work. She loves spending time with her 10 grandchildren, going for walks, working on puzzles and playing games.
Leadership Team • Board of Church Governance
Our Board of Church Governance is the governing body for Whyte Ridge Baptist church, consisting of a moderator, the lead pastor, church clerk, a representative from finance and deacons, as well as additional members from the congregation. Feel free to contact our board if questions or concerns about the ministry or future plans at Whyte Ridge Baptist Church!
