Staff

Meet some of the people who help lead us.

Jim Ellis

Pastor Jim has called Colorado, South Dakota, Iowa, and North Dakota home, and he finds beauty in both the mountains and the plains, where he experiences the presence of the Triune God. He is married to Chantalle, and they have four children: Cohen (6), Addelyn (4), Caleb (1), and Tova. Jim earned his Master of Divinity from Denver Seminary and served as interim student ministry director at Bismarck Community Church from 2013-2014. After completing his graduate studies, he returned to Bismarck in 2017 as a discipleship pastor, and in 2024, he stepped into the lead pastoral role. In his free time, Pastor Jim enjoys long-distance running, black coffee, music on vinyl, Chipotle burritos, and anything related to leadership, discipleship, and following Jesus. He also loves birds, especially Blue Herons, which he affectionately calls “Hugo.”

Brad Bales

Brad is our Worship leader and musician.  He helps us sing and worship God each week.  He and his wife Sally are long time members of BCC.

Julie Fisher

Julie is married to Walter, and together they are enjoying raising four amazing kids: River (21), Alastair (18), Tessa (16), and Tristan (16). As Director of Operations at BCC, Julie manages the church’s daily functions including administration, finances, facilities, and volunteer coordination while supporting Pastor Jim and the leadership team in their ministry work. Julie is deeply passionate about advancing God’s kingdom and sharing the light of Christ with everyone she encounters. She enjoys connecting with friends through meaningful conversations over coffee, meals, or long walks.

Troy Reno

Troy is married to Claudette. They have three children and eleven active and precious grandchildren.  Troy is the Executive Elder at Bismarck Community Church.  He is responsible for many of the financial functions of the church and is also engaged in strategic planning and human resources.  He genuinely loves Jesus and wants others to know Him, love Him and through Him become a light to the Bismarck-Mandan community.  He loves everything outdoors and claims the status of Amateur Birder among other amateur designations.

Alan Welte

Alan is married to Mary. They have three children and three grandchildren. Alan, a long term member of Bismarck Community Church has served in several different areas of ministry including evangelism, missions, and the leadership team. He is currently a teacher in children’s discipleship ministry, and also arranges for and performs maintenance of BCC’s buildings and equipment.

Laura Verner

Laura grew up in our community and now she’s responsible for keeping things clean.  She and her husband, Logan, show up a few times a week to clean up after a bunch of kids and the whole church community.  Give her a big hug, she deserves it!