Staff

Rev. Rhonda Hetzel, Senior Minister

Rev. Rhonda Hetzel became the Senior Minister of Eastgate in January, 2021. She is an Ordained Minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and has been in ministry since 2010; serving in various positions. She has a bachelor's degree in elementary education, a FOUNDATIONS ministry certificate, and graduated with a Master of Divinity degree from Central Baptist Theological Seminary (CBTS). 

Rev. Hetzel's passion is people. She brings with her a gift of pastoral care, small group teaching, and preaching. She is also an organizer/planner and encourages others to be involved in the process with her. Ministry is not done alone and is always more enjoyable when working together. She encourages the Biblical teaching of the Priesthood of All Believers and works collaboratively in the church with others.  

In addition to her service as minister of Eastgate, Rev. Hetzel also serves the Christian Church of Greater Kansas City on the Commissioned Ministry Commission, supporting the ministry of regional commissioned clergy by helping them discern if God is calling them to become commissioned ministers and helping with any issues, training, educational opportunities, or other needs that arise for these ministers.

In late 2022, Rev. Hetzel accepted a part time position as Program Director of the Thriving Congregations Initiative at Central Seminary.  She actively works with other churches from different states and denominations, along with a team of coaches, using the ReShape initiative. This is a guided process for capturing and integrating the innovation and adaptation resulting from disruptive life experiences, transforming churches into greater expressions of the body of Christ. 

"Pastor Rhonda" as she is often called by her congregation, is married to her husband, Karl, who also serves the church in several ways. They have two grown children, a married daughter and her husband, and a son. Family time is a top priority for them and they spend as much time together traveling, playing, and laughing as their schedules will allow. Pastor Rhonda's protected days off each week are Friday/Saturday unless otherwise noted.

Robin Smith, Office Secretary & Interim Music Director (March - April 2024)

Robin Smith has been our office secretary since November 2021.  She has a wealth of knowledge in office and computer skills and is enthusiastic in her work. Robin Smith received her Bachelor of Arts in Music degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in the late 1990s.

In November 2017, Robin finished a 5-year position as the Office Manager with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Regional Church.  

She has a passion for music and for over 50 years, Robin has provided her music ministry for a variety of church denominations, as well as accompanied vocal music classes and students in several school districts. Previously, she was the organist for the First Christian Church (Harrisonville, MO), United Methodist Church (Harrisonville, MO, Sacred Heart Catholic Church (Hot Springs Village, AR), as well as the Director of Music and Administration for Blue Valley Christian Church (Overland Park, KS).

She is married to Larry Smith, retired Firefighter for Lenexa, KS.  Their four children live near them, allowing ample time and opportunity to enjoy their four grandchildren.

Kira Black, Office Secretary

Kira Black is the office secretary as of Febuary 2024. She has a passion for helping others and hopes her efforts will help the church thrive. 

She was born and raised in Lee's Summit, Missouri and currently lives in Pleasant Hill, Missouri. She has friends and family in Independence and hopes to include the congregation into her circle of friends. 

Custodian

Chante' Green is the church janitor since September 2022. She has an eye for detail and keeps our facility in excellent, sanitized condition. 

She has lived in Independence for 20 years. Chante' also works full-time at UMKC School of Dentistry and has been there for 16 years. 

Her daughter and she are in the BSA Troop that nest at Eastgate. Chante' serves as the Advancement Coordinator for the troop. Her daughter is First Class rank and is the patrol leader for the Phoenix patrol. Chante' thanks you for the opportunity to take care of and serve Eastgate Christian Church.