Pastor Christopher Chelpka

Christopher has served as pastor at Covenant since 2011. He loves teaching the Bible and counts it a joy to watch God transform lives through the ordinary rhythms of worship, fellowship, and loving neighbors. Born and raised in Phoenix, Christopher was a professional cellist and teacher before becoming a pastor. Outside of ministry, he continues to make music and enjoys various kinds of biking. He blogs at christopherchelpka.com. He and his wife Della have five children and share a lively home with dogs, cats, chickens, and a tortoise. He finds himself continually drawn to the unfailing love of Jesus, who never gives up on us.

Pastor Stephen Lauer

Stephen has served in pastoral ministry since 2017 coming to Covenant OPC in Tucson in early 2025. He finds Covenant’s warm and loving community a pleasure to serve among, and delights in seeing God’s people growing together in the fruit of the Spirit. Born and raised in Japan as a missionary kid, he worked in software development prior to the pastorate and still enjoys building and fixing things. When not doing pastoral work, Stephen, his wife Felicia, and their son enjoy cooking (and eating!), playing games, and exploring the outdoors together. He is amazed by the awesome kindness and tender gentleness of King Jesus to sinners.