Leadership

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Gary Venden, Lead Pastor

Pastor Gary has been in ministry since 1979, and presently pastors the Glendale church in Phoenix, AZ, where he and his wife Marilynn have served since 1997. Gary carries a special passion for the message of “Righteousness by Faith” which he learned from his cousin and mentor, Pastor Morris Venden. Daily seeking a deeper personal friendship with Jesus has been the anchor point of his life and ministry. Gary counts it a privilege to join his cousin Lee Venden in continuing to proclaim this vital and life-changing message through the All About Jesus Revival Seminar.

Zack Surovec, Associate Pastor

Pastor Zack grew up attending the Glendale Church, where his life was transformed by a personal encounter with God while studying at Glenview Academy. At the age of fifteen, during a mission trip, he felt God’s call to pastoral ministry and also met his high school sweetheart, Alicia. Now, eighteen years later, Pastor Zack has come full circle, serving the Glendale Church alongside his wife, Alicia, and their daughter, Everly. It is a special joy for him to minister alongside the very pastors who once helped shape his walk with Christ.

Myles Reiner, Associate Pastor

Pastor Myles joined the pastoral team at the Glendale Church in January 2010. In March 2016 the Arizona Conference merged the Glendale Church with Phoenix Central Church to form a new district. As the associate pastor, Myles was given oversight for the Phoenix Central Church in addition to his duties at Glendale. Since May 2015, Myles has led out in a weekly study which focuses on the 28 fundamental beliefs of the SDA Church. Myles and his wife Patty have five adult children and five grandchildren. Spending time with family is an important part of their lives. They cherish their time with God, sharing His goodness, enjoying nature, doing road-trips, especially on their motorcycle.

Melissa Maguire, Associate Pastor

Pastor Melissa joined Glendale as a member in 2020. She heard Jesus calling her to serve in ministry while studying to become a math teacher and changed her life to follow Jesus on the great adventure! Melissa graduated from Southern Adventist University in 2026 and has come back home to the Arizona Conference. She is delighted to serve the community that has supported her all her life. Melissa is passionate about children and youth ministry; she worked at camp and as an assistant dean at an academy. Ultimately, her greatest joy is to daily grow closer to the heart of God.

Patty Reiner, Church Secretary

Patty has been part of the Glendale Church Family since 2001.  She has served as an Elder since 2006 and as church secretary and clerk since 2010. She counts it a joy and privilege to work for the Lord and His people. She is married to her best friend, and Glendale associate pastor, Myles Reiner. Together they have 5 grown children and 5 grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with Jesus (abiding), playing with the grandkids, and motorcycle rides with her husband.

Mike Wood, Church Treasurer and Physical Plant Manager

Mike, and his wife Kathy, have been an vital part of the Glendale Church Family for over three decades.  Mike has served as treasurer and head of Physical Plant Management for more than 20 years. Mike and Kathy, have three adult children and five grandchildren. Nobody knows the inner workings of the church campus quite like Mike. Thank you, Mike and Kathy, for all you do!