Pastor Michael McCartney's life is a testament to the transformative power of faith. From a childhood marred by violence and anger, he found redemption through encountering Jesus in the lives of others. Inspired by the remarkable transformations he witnessed, Pastor Mike embarked on his own spiritual journey. With a Master's in Biblical Studies and a degree in Pastoral Ministry, he has been in ministry for over 43 years, guiding and counseling others with a specialization in Chemical Dependency Counseling.

Now serving as the Lead Pastor at Christian Hills Church/School since 2008, Pastor Mike shares the message of freedom, peace, and joy found in Christ. His impactful sermons have reached millions worldwide, as he remains dedicated to spreading the enduring love of Jesus. Beyond his ministry, Pastor Mike finds immense joy in his personal life. He enjoys spending time with his wife Kathy, his three daughters, and 7 grandchildren. He also loves reading, golfing, hunting, and spending time in the great outdoors.

Gayle Bergstrand grew up in the Chicagoland area. She graduated from Trinity Christian College and Governor’s State University. She is married to Scott, whom she met at Christian Hills Church in their youth group, and together have two children and one grandchild. Gayle has attended Christian Hills Church since 1983. She started teaching at Christian Hills School in 1991. Overall, she has taught for 20 years and been the school’s administrator for 11 years. Gayle loves the Lord and strives to have every student at Christian Hills School know who God is, and build on that foundation in every area of their lives.

Tiffany grew up in the Chicago suburbs and northwest Indiana area. She graduated from Trinity Christian College in 2006 with a degree in Theology and Church Ministry & Leadership. She has one adult son, AJ (who would say he was raised at Christian Hills). Before feeling the call to go into ministry, Tiffany started attending and volunteering at Christian Hills Church in 2000. She has been on staff at CHC since 2007 working in both Kids and Women’s Ministry. When she isn’t teaching Kids or Co-leading bible studies you will find her doing some of her favorite things like fishing, singing, baking, hanging out with friends and family, playing cards or board games, and watching old movies.

Riley started at Christian Hills Church in January of 2024. Despite a challenging childhood and homelessness, he found faith, which transformed his life. Jesus’s presence offered him solace and purpose, leading him from the streets to serving others. His personal experience has instilled a deep sense of empathy, and now finds fulfillment in assisting the homeless, offering hope and guidance. 

Riley is studying Christian and Biblical Studies at Grand Canyon University, after a brief stint at Harvard, and he has truly felt aligned with his calling in ministry. Riley aspires to further his studies beyond his Bachelor’s degree.

Family is Riley’s sanctuary, especially his bond with his younger cousins, nieces, and nephews. Meeting Velari, his future spouse, added a new dimension to his life, supporting his spiritual growth. In his downtime, Riley enjoys reading, watching documentaries and really loves hiking. A lifelong learner, he is committed to expanding his knowledge and continues to explore diverse learning opportunities. His journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of God's love. 

Born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, Marlon has yet to figure out how to live outside of Illinois.  On May 14th, 2010 he surrendered to following Jesus, and the next day graduated with a degree from Bradley University in Advertising. From there, Dad (how Marlon refers to God) walked with Marlon through a career as an actor, and slowly trained him to become a songwriter, musician, recording artist, teacher, pastor, visual artist, and lover of leading others in worshiping our mighty & matchless Savior. 

For nine years, Marlon pastored at several church plants before joining staff with Christian Hills in 2023.  As Worship & Discipleship Pastor he leads our musicians and congregation in praising God for all that He is with all that we have.  Marlon also loves creativity, comedy, dancing, board games, being silly, thinking deeply, fruit, deep dish pizza, and fried chicken. 

Ashley grew up in Wisconsin and came to the Chicagoland area in 2012 to be closer to family after finishing a music program in Texas. She has a Bachelors Degree in Worship & the Arts from West Coast Bible College and Seminary. Ashley served in multiple ministries before becoming the Worship & Creative Pastor in 2017. Just recently Ashley took a step back and became our Creative Media Pastor in order to be home more with her four kids: Emerson, Harlowe, Deklan, and Cooper.

Ashley currently runs all of our Social Media accounts, website, and creating graphics. She is still a dedicated volunteer to our worship team and other ministries.

Ashley loves to spend time with her wonderful husband, Vernon, and their family in her free time. She loves to drink coffee, play piano, sing, and create art in many forms.

Peggy has been attending CHC for 40 years. Her children grew up here at the church and attended Christian Hills School and at one point all 6 of her grandkids have attended Christian Hills School. She has been working at the church since 2003. Her duties now are mainly in the financial area (payroll, payables and receivables, contributions, etc.) She also does other office duties and helps out where ever she is needed.