Get to Know the Leadership Team

Meet the team who has leadership responsibility and
sets the vision of Sovereign Grace Church

Russell Tusing

Lead Pastor

Russell’s journey into theological studies began shortly after his conversion, when he decided to enroll in Bible College, successfully obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Theology with honors. Driven by his passion for the Lord and a desire to deepen his theological understanding, Russell pursued further education and completed his Masters in Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary.

Since 2011, Russell has faithfully served as the lead pastor at Sovereign Grace Church, serving as the primary preacher/teacher, as well as spearheading pastoral care and biblical counsel.

Russell has been married to Sarah since 2002, and together they have raised their four children. When he’s not reading a science-fiction novel while sipping a cup of coffee, you can find him watching X-Files and Fringe.

Austin & Madi Sievert

Sound/Media & Decor Director

Married in 2021, Austin and Madi are a couple whose talents have enriched Sovereign Grace Church in a variety of ways. Austin orchestrates the Sound & Media Ministry in coordination the the Music Ministry, and Madi brings her artistic flair to life as the Decor & Ministry Design Director at the church.

They have recently added a Border Collie, German Shepard, and Doberman mix pup by the name of Bailey, to their family. Austin enjoys hunting and fishing in his spare time, while Madi expresses her artistry through baking.

MJ & Robbie Hart

Music & Student Ministry Director

MJ directs SGC’s Music Ministry in coordination with our Sound & Media Ministry. He also serves as our Aftermath Student Ministry Director.

MJ and Robbie married in 2020. He is a graduate of Lagrange College with a degree in Business with a focus on Sports Management. He is presently a sales specialist at BC Stone Homes. .J has also published a coloring book for children with special needs entitled ‘Difference Makers.’

Robbie is a talented hair and makeup artist who currently styles as Beauty By Robbie. She also is an event planner and wedding coordinator. Robbie also ministers in our Kings Kids Buddies Ministry.

Charles & Brenda Benefield

Kings Kids Directors and Deacon/Deaconess

Charles and Brenda have been married since 2013. And have three adult children along with two grandchildren. Charles owns a contracting business, Submerge Restoration. Brenda is an office administrator with Georgia Bone and Joint. She also has a degree in childhood education. These two direct our children’s ministry so well. And with great passion. We are grateful for them. They enjoy fishing together and time with their grandkids.

Larry & Renee Gay

Usher/Security Teams Director & Administrator

Larry directs and coordinates our Sunday usher and security teams. He has a degree in Practical Theology and has ministered as an ordained elder. Plus, he rides a Harley Davidson and loves hunting! He is also an essential voice among SGC’s Pastoral Advisory Committee.

Renee is SGC’s administrator. She volunteers every week to facilitate ministry and communicate our mission endeavors among SGC.

Larry and Renee married in 1986 and have two children. Renee is a creative crafter and enjoys watching British streaming series.

Sarah Tusing

Kings Kids ‘Buddies’ Director

Sarah loves being a wife (to Russell since 2002) and a mother to their 4 children. Sarah has a Bachelor’s Degree in Practical Theology. Her heart for the special needs community emerged from her own experience of growing up with her youngest sibling, Tommy, having autism. She loves coffee and her Dallas Cowboys.