Leadership Structure & Accountability

Apostolic Oversight
Apostolic Oversight

Destiny City Church maintains outside oversight and accountability for our pastors and leadership through trusted believers and leaders connected to our spiritual affiliations.

Our apostolic oversight consists of leaders within Evangel Fellowship International (EFI)—an affiliation Destiny City Church is connected to—along with Covenant Life Ministries, led by Frank Harvey.

If anything arises concerning the leadership of Destiny City Church and outside assistance, counsel, or aid is needed, members of Destiny City Church may call on these men to help.

•Phillips Miles (Evangel Fellowship International)
•Dale Campfield (EFI)
•Bill Knight (EFI)
•Rod Reed (EFI)
•Hinmer Zuniga (EFI)
•Frank Harvey (Covenant Life Ministries)
Leadership Overview
At Destiny City Church, leadership is shared among elders, pastors, and ministry directors who serve together in unity under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We believe in a biblical model of team leadership—where accountability, character, and calling are essential for those who serve.

•Elders provide spiritual oversight, prayerful discernment, and guidance for the overall direction of the church.

•Pastors lead in specific areas of ministry, equipping and encouraging the body of Christ to grow in faith and service.

•The Leadership Team collaborates to ensure decisions are made with wisdom, transparency, and unity.
Elders
Chuck White, Lydia Heglar, Jeremy Vess and Eydie Hinnant
Pastors & Staff
Lead Pastor: Don Vess

Associate Pastor & Administrator: Becki Vess

Family & Youth Pastor: Jamie Kayali

Children’s Pastor: Chris Kent

Creative Ministries Director: Jeremy Vess

In addition, Russ Wilson serves as Media Director.
Leadership Team
For guiding decisions, we have a Leadership Team headed by Lead Pastor Don Vess, which includes:

•Don & Becki Vess
•Chuck & Janice White
•Chris Kent
•Jamie & Tara Kayali
•Jeremy & Jessica Vess
•Lydia Heglar
•Eydie Hinnant
•Lynn & Denise Koontz
•Matt & Monica Christian

This team works together to ensure every ministry at Destiny City operates with unity, integrity, and alignment with our mission to make disciples and glorify Jesus Christ.
Financial Oversight
Financial decisions are overseen by the Board of Trustees in partnership with the pastoral staff and leadership team.
This structure ensures accountability, stewardship, and transparency in all areas of ministry operations.

Board of Trustees:

•Bonnie Vanderelst

•Eydie Hinnant

•Lydia Heglar

•Jeremy & Jessica Vess

•Don & Becki Vess
Pastoral Background
Lead Pastor Don Vess received his credentials with the Assemblies of God and served for over 22 years within that fellowship.

He holds a Doctorate of Sacred Studies from Christian Life School of Theology in Columbus, GA.

He pastored Avon Assembly of God in Avon, NC, before returning to Salisbury to lead Salisbury Christian Fellowship.

In 2010, Don and his wife Becki launched Destiny City Church, where they continue to serve faithfully with a heart for revival, discipleship, and community transformation.
Leadership Commitment to Guard the Church Body
Leadership Commitment to Guard the Church Body (Flock)

Destiny City Church is a place of restoration for the broken—but never at the expense of protecting the flock.

Our leadership is committed to defending our church body against those with predatory intent and against those with personal agendas that do not align with our mission, vision, core values, and culture.

Our leadership team longs for truth and accountability, with the ultimate goal of transformation through the power of Jesus Christ. That being said, we cannot allow predators—or the persistently unrepentant—to have our podiums or remain among our people. We long to seek justice, and we will do so with the measure of grace the LORD allows.

We also understand our commitment to confidentiality when people are willing to walk in repentance, pursue restoration, and repair broken relationships. Therefore, as leadership, we must maintain confidentiality—but not at the risk of creating a cover-up culture. We believe in transparency, while also respecting the confidence and confidentiality of those who may be victims and those who are genuinely walking in repentance.

However, if someone is unrepentant and has been warned, we will bring private matters to light when necessary in order to ensure the protection of our church body.

We are also respectful of the laws of the land, and we will report any incident that breaks the law.

Meet our team

Pastors Elders & Overseers

Don & Becki Vess

Lead Pastors

Meet Pastors Donald and Becki Vess, the visionary leaders behind Destiny City Church since its establishment in 2010. With a collective ministry experience spanning over 50 years, they bring an unwavering passion for Jesus Christ and a profound love for people, grounded in a steadfast commitment to shepherding God's flock. Pastor Don is a fervent preacher dedicated to discipleship and sharing the transformative truth of God’s Word. Together with his wife, Becki, they founded Destiny City Church—a ministry devoted to guiding others in discovering and fulfilling their God-given destinies, ultimately aiming for the transformation of all into the likeness of Jesus Christ. On a personal note, both Don and Becki exemplify kindness and love, making them two of the most warm-hearted individuals you'll ever encounter.
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Chuck & Janice White

Elder/Oversight

Meet Pastors Chuck and Janice White. Pastor Chuck is a dedicated elder at Destiny City Church. Together, Chuck and Janice lead a Connect group that gathers weekly, fostering a close-knit community within Destiny City Church.

Beyond their roles as pastors, Chuck and Janice are remarkable evangelists and teachers, proficient in understanding and utilizing the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit. Their dynamic leadership contributes significantly to the spiritual growth and vibrancy of Destiny City Church.
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Lydia Heglar

Elder/Volunteer Coordinator 

Meet Lydia Hagler, an esteemed elder at Destiny City Church. Leading the Foundations Class, fondly known as the Purple Book, every Sunday morning, Lydia has a heartfelt mission to witness people being discipled and flourishing in their unique gifts. With astute oversight and wisdom, Lydia plays a vital role in providing guidance for the church. Her commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and fostering a supportive community makes her an invaluable asset to Destiny City Church.  Lydia also serves as a volunteer coordinator helping to discover the volunteer needs of our various programs and assist the leaders of those programs in filling the volunteer positions. 
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Eydie Hinnant

Elder/Prayer Ministries Director

Introducing Eydie Hinnant, an esteemed elder at Destiny City Church, where she imparts wisdom and guidance to the community. Leading the Monday afternoon women’s prayer group known as the War Room, Eydie carries a distinct anointing for intercession, offering a powerful covering of prayer. Her invaluable contributions make her a cherished and vital team member at our church. Eydie's commitment to prayer and spiritual support enriches the spiritual fabric of Destiny City Church.
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Jamie  & Tara Kayali

Student & Family Ministries Pastors

Meet Pastors Jamie and Tara Kayali, the dynamic duo serving as pastors for student and family ministries. Driven by an immense passion for teenagers, their overarching mission is to impart the teachings and principles of God's Word. Their goal is to nurture strong families, empowered by the Holy Spirit and enveloped in the love of Jesus Christ. Jamie and Tara are not only incredibly hardworking and intelligent but also exude kindness and warmth, extending love to everyone they encounter. Their commitment to building a community rooted in faith and love is evident in every aspect of their ministry.
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Chris Kent

Children’s Pastor

Meet Chris Kent, the Children’s Pastor at Destiny City Church. With a heartfelt passion, Pastor Chris is dedicated to guiding children into the knowledge and truths of the kingdom of God. Known for his gentle demeanor and caring nature, he fosters a wonderful environment where children can explore and understand God's love, grace, and power. Through his nurturing approach, Pastor Chris plays a crucial role in shaping a foundation of faith for the youngest members of the Destiny City Church community.

Beyond his pastoral duties, Chris, alongside his wife Deborah, is an active and generous presence in the community. They own a hotdog stand located in the parking lot of Marshalls in Salisbury, North Carolina, where they generously invest their time, talent, and effort. Their commitment extends beyond the church walls, making a positive impact in the broader community they serve.
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Lynn & Denise Koontz

Life Group Overseers

Lynn and Denise Koontz serve as Life Group overseers with a genuine heart for the body of Christ. They are passionate about seeing the church grow through meaningful relationships and small groups that help people connect, grow, and walk out their faith together. Known for their incredible hospitality, they are some of the warmest and most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. Take time to get to know them, and if you’re interested in starting a small group, they would love to connect with you and help you get started.
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Matt & Monica Christian

Young Adults Gathering  Overseers

Matt and Monica Christian serve as overseers for our Young Adults Gathering at Destiny City Church. They have a wonderful gift of hospitality and a heart for building genuine community. With creative ideas and a passion for connection, they help create meaningful opportunities for young adults—whether single, married, or raising children—to grow in faith and fellowship together.

If you’re looking to connect at Destiny City Church, take a moment to get to know Matt and Monica and join in some of the great fellowship opportunities they are helping cultivate.
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Jeremy & Jessica Vess

Elder/Creative Ministries Director/Worship Leaders

Jeremy Vess, the Creative Ministries Director and Praise/Worship Leader at Destiny City Church, is a dedicated force behind the scenes. With a mission to equip the people of God for their callings and purpose, Jeremy collaborates across every department, ensuring the church operates smoothly and efficiently. His deep love for Jesus is evident in his passionate pursuit to see the people of God come alive in their unique gifts and callings. Through his multifaceted role, Jeremy strives to create an environment where faith flourishes and individuals are empowered to fulfill their divine destinies.   He also serves as an elder for Destiny City Church.

Jessica is a dedicated member of the leadership team at Destiny City Church. In addition to her leadership role, she takes center stage as a worship leader with the praise team. Jessica is deeply involved in the women's ministries, playing a key role in creating opportunities for fellowship and gatherings. Her passion lies in fostering relational connections among the women of Destiny City Church, creating a vibrant and supportive community. Jessica's multifaceted contributions significantly enhance the spiritual and communal life of the church.
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What to Expect