Rev. Dr. Thomas D. Minton came to Republic from First Christian Church in Sweetwater, Texas and began ministry in Republic in November, 2003. He holds degrees from Abilene Christian University and Asbury Theological Seminary in Biblical Studies, in World Mission and Evangelism, and in Missiology, respectively.

Thomas has many years of experience in ministry including sixteen years in Switzerland and Germany as well as short-term missions in Holland, Austria, Kenya, the Philippines, and Ecuador. Also, he served churches in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Texas. His goal in ministry is to encourage and build up the church as a spiritually vital, worshiping community of faith, "loving and serving from our doorsteps to the ends of the earth".

His spouse, the Rev. Barbara J. Minton, also an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is the Pastor of First Christian Church in Eldorado Springs, Missouri. Together they are the parents of a son and two daughters and have seven grandchildren.

Rev. Julie Pappenfort came to Republic after serving several years at Nixa Christian Church in Nixa, MO. and began ministry in Republic as a part time Youth Pastor in April of 2007. Julie works full time for Bass Pro Fabrications and is currently a student at the Missouri School of Religion obtaining her Certificate in Pastoral Ministry.

Julie’s current goal in ministry is to lead youth, 6th – 12th grade, into a relationship with Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord for life and to establish them as disciples, characterized by a life of holiness expressed through devotion, worship, mission, outreach, fellowship, stewardship, and witness. Future aspirations include full time ministry with emphasis on children, youth, college aged individuals and young families.

Julie has one son that currently lives in Nixa and one granddaughter, Allyson Grace.   She is very active in the community and treasures most, time spent with family and friends. Hobbies include camping, canoeing, photography, travel and cross-stitch.