Meet Ken Welsh: A Glimpse Into His Role as an Elder
Over the past months, we've had the opportunity to introduce several of our elders, each with their own unique journey to serving in this vital role. Today, we’re sharing the story of Ken Welsh. His path to eldership began in the mid-90s during a pivotal time in Calvary's history, right after the first sanctuary expansion. Read on to learn about his background in construction, his passion for expanding God’s kingdom, and his perspective on unity in church leadership.
Q1: When did you become an elder?
A1: I became an elder in the mid-90s, just after we completed the first sanctuary expansion (now the D Building) and the chapel, bookstore, admin offices, and Building B.
Q2: How did you become an elder?
A2: Gorden Johnson and I were asked by Pastor Mark to consider being elders. At that time, the church was rapidly growing, and Gina and I were involved in a variety of ministries. After a time of prayer, Gina and I both agreed that this was the direction the Lord was moving us.
Q3: What do you do for a living outside of being an elder?
A3: I am a statewide Commercial General Contractor. Gina and I also manage a personal portfolio of rental properties.
Q4: What’s your favorite part of being an elder?
A4: I love to be a part of the expansion of the Kingdom of God and seeing lives changed.
Q5: What’s your least favorite part of being an elder?
A5: Having to deal with difficult situations, although this is rare.
Q6: Do you have a story of encouragement since becoming an elder?
A6: Two stories come to mind. First, we have always operated on the premise that "where God guides, God provides." CCM started with very little money in a rented auditorium at the Hilton, then moved to a rented Seventh-day Adventist facility, an elementary school auditorium, and then to 10 acres with a 600-seat auditorium. And the people came. Today, we have a large West Melbourne campus with a 3,000-seat auditorium and one of the largest Christian schools in the county, as well as two other campuses in Viera and Sebastian, a Hispanic church, and a startup in Titusville.
Second, we operate on the principle that no decisions will be made unless we are in unity. Psalm 133 tells us, "How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! ...For there the Lord bestows His blessing." I believe this is the single most important reason why CCM is so blessed.
Q7: In your opinion, what is the purpose of an elder?
A7: We see that in the early church, elders were appointed to "direct the affairs of the church." Our elders oversee the affairs of the church by the grace of God. Elders also shepherd God’s flock at CCM, watching over them and caring for them with the help of a gifted and talented pastoral and administrative staff.
Ken’s journey as an elder reflects a deep trust in God’s provision and the power of unity in leadership. His background in construction and project management has played a significant role in Calvary's growth, while his heart for ministry continues to shape the spiritual foundation of our church.
We hope that through these stories, you’ve been able to connect with the elders who help guide the spiritual direction of our church. If you see Ken or any of our elders at a service, take a moment to say hello—they are here to serve, support, and walk alongside you in faith.