Our Lead Pastor, Jonathan Friesen, is in his 18th year at the church. Jonathan received his M.Div. from the University of Chicago Divinity School in 2008. Prior to serving at EAC, Jonathan co-directed the DOOR Chicago program, a short-term Christian service and education program located on the westside of Chicago. He and his wife Kristin have been members of the Hyde Park community for over 25 years.  They have two young adult children, Nathan and Caroline.

Our Assistant Pastor, Jorja A. Porter is a passionate and caring woman of God that has been a member of the Ellis Community for the past 10 years. A native Hyde Parker, she is an advocate of youth, women and senior citizens and believes that God has a place for everyone. She has a professional background in fundraising, strategic planning and event planning and enjoys sharing these gifts to encourage and support the community of Ellis Avenue Church. She tries to live life according to one of her favorite scriptures which is Mark 12:31, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” She is active with the youth, women and special programming at Ellis.