Leadership

Pastor Erik Johansen

Head Pastor, Elder

Erik, and his wife, Tracy, have been married since 1990 and have three grown children: Austin, Joshua, Caleb, who is married to Hannah with our first grandchild on its way. Growing up in New England Erik loves the outdoors and Boston sports teams. Together, Erik and Tracy enjoy spending time together biking, playing games, and exploring outdoor activities throughout the area. They also enjoy hosting people for food, fellowship, and games. God called Erik to ministry later in life where he received his MDIV from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in May 2017. Erik has a passion for expository preaching and discipling men as well as a strong desire to see believers grow in their knowledge and love for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Andy Rice

Youth Pastor, Elder

Andy and his wife, Cindy, are long-time members of SBF, and have been leading the youth group for more than 25 years.  They are passionate about showing God’s love to teens, and taking them on mission trips to teach them life skills and how to share the love of Christ with others through serving them.  Andy also serves on the worship team and as an elder, and oversees the multiple youth programs.  They both enjoy the many aspects of organizing, prepping, and leading Vacation Bible School.  They are involved in mentoring, and Cindy co-leads the teen girls’ events.  Andy leads Mustang Life, an after-school club at both Strongsville Middle School and Strongsville High School. 

Andy & Cindy have been married for 31 years, and love hanging out with family and friends, hosting events, scuba diving, and traveling.  Cindy works as a nurse in Cardiology, while Andy works at Tractor Supply.  As they get older, they have taken up bird watching, duck feeding, and front porch relaxing when the time allows.  

Psalm 71:16-18 “I will come and proclaim Your mighty acts, Sovereign Lord; I will proclaim your righteous deeds, yours alone.  Since my youth, God, You have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.  Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, Your mighty acts to all who are to come.”

Elder

Chris Gallagher

Elder

Chris was born in New Hampshire and moved to Strongsville, Ohio when he was in fourth grade. He and his wife, Mindy have two children and two grandchildren and live in Grafton, Ohio. They have attended Strongsville Bible Fellowship(SBF) since its inception in 1995 and raised their children at SBF. During that time Chris has been blessed with the opportunity to grow closer to God and to be a worship leader, teacher and now the treasurer. Chris believes that his role as an elder sharpens his focus on God and makes him more consistent in caring for the body at SBF.