PASTORS

  • KEVIN ROGERS

    PASTOR OF TEACHING & WORSHIP

    Kevin grew up in California and surrendered to Jesus at an early age. After studying music in college, he came to the Capital District where he served in the inner city of Schenectady for several years. He and his wife Jackie were married in 1999 and have two grown sons. After studying the Bible and ministry, Kevin received a Ph.D. in biblical studies and preaching from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has served as a pastor of Open Arms since 2000.

    Interests: The outdoors, reading, and unicycling

  • BRIAN HELF

    PASTOR OF MINISTRY & CARE

    Brian grew up in the Capital District and trusted Jesus as his personal Savior when he was twenty-five years old. He has served in a variety of ministries and opportunities in local churches. Brian and his wife Jolee have been married since 1994. They have two adult children and a growing family. He has served as a pastor of Open Arms since 2023.

    Interests: Reading, traveling with Jolee, as well as dinner and games with friends

STAFF

  • KEVIN ELLWOOD

    YOUTH MINISTRY DIRECTOR

    Kevin grew up in Guilderland and surrendered to Jesus when he was in college. After studying missiology at Nyack College, he served as a youth pastor in Jamestown, NY. He and his wife Rebecca were married in 2004 and now have a teenage daughter and son. Kevin received a MA in Intercultural Studies from Alliance Theological Seminary in Nyack and began serving as Youth Director at Open Arms in 2025.

    Interests: Playing cello, volleyball, and traveling

  • MOLLY ST. JOHN

    CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DIRECTOR

    Molly grew up in Utica, NY and came to trust in Jesus as a young adult. She and her husband David have been married since 1985 and have four grown children. Molly has been serving in Children's Ministry at Open Arms since 2011.

    Interests: Gardening, cooking and her dog LuLu