OUR TEAM

A multi-instrumentalist with over 20 years experience in music and ministry, Gary was called into ministry at an early age. With a major in Religious Studies and a minor in music performance from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gary has worked as a professional musician, performer, song writer, and music teacher, as well as a worship leader and youth minister. Recently, Gary has felt the call to Seminary, and is currently enrolled in a Masters in Theological Studies program through Fuller Seminary. He also has a love for pop culture, with a YouTube channel devoted to blending music and ministry with comic books, movies, sci-fi, and all things “nerdy.” He and his wife hail from the Triangle area of North Carolina. They live in Dumfries with their daughters Ellie and Sienna.

Kara grew up in Fairfax County and is excited to be living in the community she calls home. She holds a degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Psychology from Milligan College. Kara’s work career began in the fitness industry but she soon moved into the world of investing in children. She is an experienced preschool teacher and also served as the children’s director at the NC church plant she and Chad started. She has over 25 years of experience working with children and has been in her current role since 2017. In her free time, Kara enjoys spending time with her family, listening to audio books, and taking long walks with her dogs.

Emily grew up as a pastor’s kid and has always loved helping new individuals get connected to church communities. Before joining The Journey, she served in nonprofit leadership roles in the U.S., India and Guatemala. She has a BA from Messiah University and an MS from American University. In her free time, she loves biking, running, trying new recipes, and attempting to keep houseplants alive. She and her husband, James, live in Springfield and are the proud parents of three adult daughters.

Clay was born and raised in Louisville, KY and started attending his local church’s youth group on Wednesday nights. After serving 10 years in the Marine Corps and making a career shift into becoming a Content Creator for veteran benefits, Clay pursued his Master’s in Youth and Family Ministry from Grand Canyon University. Clay loves Lord of the Rings, video games from the 90s and spending time with his wife, Lauren and their four children; Eli, Presley, Lyla and Layton.

Jessica originally hails from Colorado but has called Alexandria home since 2018. A former Speech-Language Pathologist turned stay-at-home-mom, Jessica has been using her detail-driven organizational skills at The Journey since 2022. She is passionate about building authentic relationships and enjoys traveling, escape rooms, volunteering and family game nights. She and her husband Chris have two daughters, Leah and Kate.

Casey is from Northern Virginia, and is passionate about discipling people and growing community. She has been instrumental in building neighborhood life groups and encouraging leaders at The Journey. Casey and her husband Jonathan have two kids, Abigail and Benjamin.

Brittany was born and raised in Florida and loves all things southern including the beach, sunsets, sweet tea and mild winters. She is a military spouse and twin mom currently living with her husband John and their two kids, Jack, and McKenna in Kingstowne. Brittany attended the University of South Florida and holds a BA in Psychology and an MA in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. When she is not managing her busy household, she enjoys reading, music, jigsaw puzzles, nature walks, and time with family and friends.

Tyler is originally from California, but grew up all over the country due to being a military child. He got baptized at The Journey, and, after a few more years and a few more moves, he became an intern on the team. Now, Tyler works with Gary Mitchell, while studying music at George Mason University. In his free time, Tyler enjoys time outdoors, reading, and spending time with friends and family.