Senior Pastor Rev. Scott Porter and Terri Porter and Rev. Paul T. & Lynne Sheley

SENIOR PASTOR AND FAMILY
Scott and Terri Porter are a husband and wife team that genuinely care about people. Scott is from Rock Falls, Terri is from Sterling, and the Rock River Valley is where God called them in 1986 to grow a different kind of church. A church where people come from 24 different communities in our area to see the “Abiding Word difference” for themselves.

Scott’s passion is to communicate the truths of God’s Word in relevant terms that apply directly to the life of the listener. Through stories, laughter, and personal experiences, Scott has the unique ability to speak directly to the heart, transcending cultures, ages, genders, and set opinions.

Terri is a lady with a strong, heartfelt desire to see people rise to the wonderful place God has created for them. Dedicated to the family, Terri brings a refreshing spirit to the Abiding Word congregation as a loving wife, caring mother, anointed musician and songwriter. Scott and Terri have three daughters, Grace, Annie, and Emily.

As a ministry team it is their goal to help you discover your purpose in life. At Abiding Word, “our purpose is people, and our purpose with people is changed lives.” Over the years, they’ve seen scores of people learn to go from survival to significance, and live a life of purpose, rather than just existing from day to day. To God, you are not an accident. He has a plan and a purpose for you to pursue!

Rev. Paul & Lynne Sheley
Paul & Lynne are life long residents of Sterling. They are both 1992 graduates of Rhema Bible Training Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Upon graduating, they accepted positions at Abiding Word. Pastor Paul is the associate Pastor at Abiding Word, the Children's & Youth Pastor. He is dedicated to overseeing the largest volunteer aspect of the ministry. He has developed a great team of teachers that minister God's Word to your children and youth. Besides being Pastor Scott's administrator, Lynne is also a teacher in youth & nursery, a vocalist in praise & worship, and an events coordinator. They have one son, Philip, who is also involved in the ministry of the church. Together they are totally dedicated to seeing people, whether big or little, come to know Jesus and the life of victory that He offers freely.