Elders

Chris Daukas

Chris and Tara were both founding members of Grace Bible Church (Tempe, AZ) in 2001. In 2002, Chris joined the staff as the Worship Leader, but through the process of church planting felt a desire to pursue pastoral ministry. It was through a growing friendship with Sovereign Grace Church in Gilbert that God presented the opportunity. Chris and Tara relocated in 2003-2004 for formal training at the Sovereign Grace Pastors College and returned to Gilbert to serve at Sovereign Grace Church.

While ministering there, God laid a desire on Chris’ heart to see another church planted. In 2008, after years of conversations and prayers with the pastors of Sovereign Grace Church, the commitment to plant a church on the northwest side of town was made and the planting team of Grace Church began to form. Chris and Tara relocated in May of 2009 to Peoria, along with their three beautiful children -Taylor, Trevor, and Rylee (now four - Alexie Jane!).

Chris currently serves as the Lead Elder for Grace Church and delights himself in seeing the glory of God’s Word transform lives, starting with his own. 

Joel Peabody

God in his sovereignty brought Joel and Deb to the Valley of the Sun from Spokane Washington, where Joel had served as an Elder at Faith Bible Church. When they joined Grace Church in early 2010, friendship formed quickly between Joel and Chris.

Joel and Deb’s kids, Logan and Katie, are grown and serving God in their own families, leaving them free for greater ministry to the body. With time and a desire to minister, Joel has served Grace Church in various ways, including helping with setup, guiding a Community Group and leading communion. Joel also served as a member of the church Advisory Team, where he demonstrated wisdom, biblical insight and godliness.

Following the biblical model of plurality in eldership, Chris approached Joel about his desire to serve the body in this way. After prayer and input from Deb, Joel agreed to pursue evaluation at the end of 2010. In October 2011, Joel was appointed as the second Elder of Grace Church.