Joyful, Thankful, and Hopeful – meet Brian Russell

Brian Russell serves as Pastor at the Community Congregational United Church of Christ in Amherst, Ohio and is happy to be a part of the Board of Directors for Echoing Hills.

Originally from New York, Brian and his family moved to North Carolina when he was five. Starting in the software business, Brian felt called to ministry and attended Wake Forest Divinity School starting in 2008. After graduating with his Master of Divinity, he worked for Lutheran and Methodist churches before settling with the United Church of Christ, which led him to Ohio.

Brian is married to Elizabeth, and they have one son, Brian Jr. When not serving others, Brian loves biking, baking, playing music, badminton, kayaking, disc golf, hiking, playing board games with friends, watching Wake Forest Sports, and enjoys all things Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter. He is also an author, writing and publishing, The Complete Contemporary Worship Handbook.

Why did Brian choose to serve on the board at Echoing Hills? “I have a long history of working with individuals with disabilities, and I’ve been impressed with Echoing Hills as one of our Monthly Missions. I’m excited to be part of the continued work and impact as we move forward in faith, telling God’s story through kindness in action.”