Worship Staff
Jim Mitchell, Worship Pastor
Jim grew up in the Detroit area as the son of a physics professor/theologian (dad) and an elementary music teacher/church pianist (mom). As a result, he has essentially been immersed in church music and theology his whole life.
He earned a degree in church music from Moody Bible Institute with an emphasis in orchestral instruments and trumpet performance. In December 2007, he completed an MA in organizational leadership from Regent University.
Jim has been on the Chapel worship staff since 1991. He loves the blend of being both a pastor and a musician, and that he gets to use his gifts for what will last forever as part of the Kingdom of God.
In 2002 Jim was diagnosed with recurrent, malignant, metastatic melanoma and had to undergo nearly a year of difficult chemotherapy. The Chapel’s family and friends from all over the world rallied in prayer and the Mitchells are unspeakably grateful for the full recovery and absence of disease.
Jim and Brenda were married in 1993. They are blessed with three boys: Drew, Lane, and Trent. The Mitchells enjoy outdoor activities like traveling, camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing. Contact Jim.
Drew Belden, Worship Pastor, Akron
Drew received his undergraduate degree from Moody Bible Institute, and is currently finishing a master’s degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is assistant pastor of worship and music in Akron. Drew helps shepherd the people of God in worship in both the Resonate and Current services.
Drew enjoys hanging out with his family, playing baseball, golf, and ultimate Frisbee. He also loves to study God’s Word and write music.
He is married to Ashley and they have a son, Gaege. Contact Drew.
Doug Olson, Worship Pastor, Green
Doug grew up in a Christian home in Lewistown, Montana, and came to know the Lord when he was 8-years-old. When he was little he wanted to be a missionary, but as he got older, was drawn to the music of Keith Green and Andrae´Crouch, and learned to play piano in that style.
He attended Ozark Christian College, in Joplin Missouri, while there he sang with the Impact Brass and Singers and traveled with the Gospel Lads. After his traveling days, Doug moved to Indianapolis where he met his wife Carol. Doug finished school with a degree in music at the University of Indianapolis. Carol had an opportunity to study opera in Italy for a year. When she came back, they married. They moved to Aberdeen, South Dakota, where he became the pastor of Community Christian Church.
From there they moved to Fresno, California, and served at Northside Christian Church. The Olson’s then had the opportunity to go back to Indianapolis, and lead the contemporary service for Community Church of Greenwood. Doug has also served congregations in Greenwood Indiana and Cleveland Ohio. Doug holds a master’s degree in church leadership from Hope International University and another in choral conducting from Indiana University. He is close to completing his DMA in vocal performance from IU as well. Doug has served as a regional choir director for Promise Keepers as well as singing on two of their albums.
Doug and his wife, Carol, have three boys, Nick, Nate, and Stanton. Contact Doug.
Matt Kandel, Associate Pastor
Matt grew up in the greater Akron area, graduating from Stow High School in 1998. He has attended The Chapel since he was a young boy. His parents and siblings were involved with music and arts. Between creating rock bands and following a career path in polymer science and testing, God called Matt into ministry.
He completed his BA in church music/classical guitar from Moody Bible Institute in 2002. Upon graduation, he moved back to Northeast Ohio and led worship at a church in Wooster for a few years. In 2005, Matt moved back to Akron and began The Chapel’s internship/seminary program through Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He was hired to worship staff in 2006 and completed his MA in Christian Studies in 2007. He considers it an immense privilege to serve on pastoral staff here.
Matt and Kellie married in 2005. They have a one son, Caleb. They enjoy traveling, extended family, hosting, hiking, local history, and old house restoration. Contact Matt.