Meet  OUR  Staff

Originally from Alabama, Pastor Mike’s experience fills Canyon’s Senior Pastor position as an Interim. He and his wife Laurie have served in Ministry for 28 years.  His evident passions are teaching and preaching the Word of God with sound biblical doctrine. Pastor Mike loves to see people grow in their faith with the Lord, and as we continue to grow at Canyons, his committed leadership helps us to strengthen our ministries in serving our Lord Jesus. Pastor Mike enjoys Reading, Woodworking and Camping.
His favorite verses are: Philippians 1:6  Being confident of this very thing that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. and Ephesians 6:10  Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico and now a US citizen with his wife Sonia , he and his family support the Hispanic Ministry here at Canyons.  As Pastor of the Hispanic community he comes with 39 years of experience in various ministries. He is passionate to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pastor Rafael  loves to see others come to know the Lord Jesus and watch Jesus transform their lives .He would love to see continued growth in ministeries here at Canyons. His wife Sonia, is the director at the Baptist Concern Center mission in Salt Lake City in which they both serve people who are in need. Pastor Rafael enjoys drawing, playing the guitar, watching soccer games and spending time with his family.
His favorite verse is:  Luke 14:27 “And whoever does not bear his cross, and come after Me, cannot be My disciple”

Madison was born in our great State of Utah and grew up attending Canyons Church. She became our Worship Leader six years ago and enjoys every minute of it with the support of her family and  husband Sean. She is a very gifted artist and encourages others to serve in the capacity of music as well, which is her passion. Madison feels closest to God as He speaks to her through song.
Madison enjoys her love of NCAA gymnastics, specifically the Utah Red Rocks!
Her favorite life verse is : James 1:12 “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” 

Mike began  working with the Deaf in 1993. He studied sign language and began interpreting and teaching the next year. Mike lead and taught  Signed Bible study class for 20 years here at Canyons. Livestream media was created and Mike implemented the program for our church. He interprets every 11:00 am English/signed service for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.  Currently there are two interpreters. One ASL and PSE.  This ministry among others have become a valued support to many we want to help.
Mike enjoys cooking and building.
His favorite verse is: Isaiah 35:4-6a "Say to those with fearful hearts, Be strong, and do not fear, for Your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you. And when He comes, He will open the eyes of the blind and unplug the ears of the deaf. The lame will leap like a deer, and those who cannot speak will sing for joy!"

Our Children's Ministry Coordinator comes to us from North Carolina! With 12 years of ministry experience. As of January  2024 Sonia has become a full-time Missionary for CEF as Utah’s Local Coordinator. Her love for Canyons Church with sound biblical doctrine has made it her home. She has strong passions to help spiritually starved children in our state with helping them to know the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She has an incredible vision to see that this comes true. Sonia enjoys time with her family of five, music, good home cookin’, and dancing in the rain.
Her favorite verse is:  Romans 10:14-15 
How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent?

As manager of our office, Pat Orn oversees many of our operations  with great efficiency. Formally from Wichita, Kansas and Fort Worth,Texas she comes to us here in beautiful Salt Lake City, Utah.  We have had the privilege of her servant’s heart for 4 years. She has worn several hats in ministry besides being a supportive wife for her husband Roger as Deacon here at Canyons.  Pat’s vision for Canyons Church is seeing our young people growing at Canyons with their families. Pat enjoys her family, Reading, Golf and Kayaking.  Her favorite verse : Phillipians 4;13
 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Originally from Alabama and spending the majority of her life here in Utah, Lynne has served faithfully for the Lord  in Children’s ministeries and Mission trips with our youth.  Her administrative support in our office helps to keep the week running smoothly.  Her position enables her to have wonderful relationships with many in the congregation. She enjoys her time with her family when not working.
Her favorite verse is : Jeremiah 29:11 'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”