Leadership

Ross has served as Lead Pastor at The Grove since 2003, when The Grove Church was restarted with a heart to revitalize the church in the Madison community. Sensing a call from the Lord, he went to Samford University (BA in Religious Education) and then continued his studies at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MA in Religious Education). He served as a student pastor in Georgia for 12 years before returning to Alabama to help The Grove. He is passionate about teaching, missions, discipleship, and worship. More than anything, he wants people to learn to trust and follow Jesus, then become the disciple God created them to be. Outside of ministry, he loves spending time with his wife of over 35 years, Beth, his 6 children, and his grandson. He enjoys working on their family farm, riding ATVs, hiking, and almost any adventure. His favorite Scripture passage is Ephesians 3:20-21.

Drew has worked in full-time ministry since 2008, joining The Grove as Student Pastor in 2019. He is passionate about helping students connect the truth of scripture to everyday life and discipling them to enjoy walking with Him daily. He and his wife, Ashley, have been married since 2011. They have 3 children, Hazel, Jasper, and Maple, 2 dogs, and a yard full of chickens! He enjoys being outdoors with his family, hiking and kayaking, woodworking, watching football, and eating ice cream. One of his favorite Bible passages is 1 Peter 5:6-7 which says, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your cares on him, because he cares about you.”

Roger Tarver has served as Associate Pastor at The Grove since 2015. He lovingly refers to himself as “the old guy” on staff. He has been married to his partner in life and ministry, Sharon, for over 6 decades. Roger found Christ at age 30, was called to leave his career at age 40, and ultimately became a pastor at age 48, pastoring three churches in Texas and one in Louisiana over the years before moving to Alabama. Roger has supported with preaching, interviews, counseling, and other ministry opportunities at The Grove. He currently leads our prayer team, multiple life groups, and our monthly men’s prayer breakfast. He loves helping others with spiritual maturity and spiritual warfare, enjoys good food with friends and family, and likes watching sporting events. His favorite scripture is 2 Corinthians 3:5.

Steve has served as Pastor to the Deaf at The Grove since January 2023, where he helps oversee the Deaf Ministry (known as “Deaf Koinonia”) through weekly bible studies and fellowships. He has served for over 30 years on various leadership teams and ministries. He is passionate about thinking outside of the box to work with the Deaf to ensure they connect with Jesus and one another. Steve specializes in being able to fluently sign in American Sign Language and speak with his voice as well, bringing a unique approach to learning for most people unfamiliar with Deaf culture. Outside of ministry, Steve enjoys golfing, exploring, traveling with his family, and building his Star Wars collection. He has been married to his wife, Mandi, for over 31 years. They share 3 amazing kids and one granddaughter. His favorite scripture is John 3:30 which in Deaf language says, “Jesus is more important – I am less important.”

Sara has served as Minister to Kids at The Grove since 2016, where she oversees preschool and children’s ministry ages birth through fifth grade. With a background in theology and missions, she is passionate about intentionally leading kids to become lifelong disciples of Jesus. Sara loves helping kids discover how to apply the Bible to their daily lives. Outside of ministry she enjoys spending time with her family and supporting other foster/adoptive families. Acts 20:24 serves as one of Sara’s life verses.

Ryan and Roseanna have been married for over 20 years and have served as part of The Bridge Ministry at The Grove since July 2023, where they oversee lesson planning, event coordination, and the discipleship of college students and young adults entering the workforce. With a background in administration, real estate, and hospitality, Ryan and Roseanna are grounded in faith, family, and the ministry of everyday moments. Whether leading through worship music and life groups, opening their home for a meal, or simply showing up for someone in need, the Keefers believe God works powerfully through connection. Outside of ministry, Ryan and Roseanna enjoy cooking, hosting family gatherings, and spending time with each other, their three children, and their beloved grandbaby. “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” — Matthew 20:28