PEOPLE BEHIND THE SCENES
WRITTEN BY ELIAS REYES
A Thank You to Dennis Holden and Kathy Lehnerz
DENNIS HOLDEN
Dennis Holden has been a member of Crossroads Church since 2003, serving through the impactful Angel Tree Ministry. Each holiday season, Dennis and his team bring Christmas gifts and messages of hope to children whose parents are incarcerated. Angel Tree begins its efforts in November, reaching out to families to identify gift needs and organizing volunteers to purchase, wrap, and deliver the presents.
Dennis emphasizes that Angel Tree opens doors for meaningful interactions, prayer, and fellowship. Through this outreach, Dennis and his team can bring the church’s community together, encourage members to stretch beyond their comfort zones, and demonstrate the love of Christ to families facing difficult times. As the program grows, Dennis hopes it will continue to thrive with the help of dedicated volunteers, reaching more families and creating lasting change for children.
We are still open for volunteer gift wrapping helpers Thursday, December 5th or show up to help starting at 7pm in WC 107-108.
If you would like more information email Dennis Holden; dennis@dennisholden.com
Dennis sees his role as one of encouraging others, organizing phone calls, coordinating volunteers, and even visiting families to share God’s love in practical ways. His faith drives him to meet people where they are, offering hope and an invitation to experience Christ’s love. Reflecting on his ministry, Dennis says, “God is always giving us that opportunity to spread the good news of Jesus and to be available.” He believes Angel Tree has a lasting future, as there will always be families in need of this support.
KATHY LEHNERZ
Kathy Lehnerz has been part of Crossroads Church since 1990, when it was still known as Dobson Ranch Church. Kathy has dedicated herself to various ministry roles, fueled by her passion for music and drama. Now, as a central figure in the Worship Creative Arts Ministry, Kathy is leading an original production called One Chaotic Still Night, a heartfelt retelling of the nativity story.
Crossroads' Worship Creative Arts Ministry’s mission is to offer “multiple touchpoints for people of all ages and backgrounds to encounter, experience, and share God’s goodness.” Kathy and her team exemplify this mission by crafting inclusive programs bringing people together from all generations and backgrounds. Kathy is also proud to welcome another church to collaborate on One Chaotic Still Night, allowing the production to serve as a powerful outreach effort that unites the local faith community.
Her journey reflects a story of obedience and trust. Although she began without formal training, Kathy's openness to God’s guidance has empowered her to grow and take on responsibilities that allow her to serve both her church and community. This spirit of service is her defining gift. She often reflects on a line from her play’s opening scene, where the director tells a young actress, “I need you to be willing.” This resonates deeply with Kathy, who seeks daily to “be willing,” trusting God to provide what’s needed to fulfill each role she steps into.
Looking ahead, Kathy envisions this December’s production as a special opportunity to share the story of Christ’s birth with all who attend. With performances scheduled at Crossroads on December 14, the ministry is still welcoming volunteers to help with costuming, prompts, and general support.
If you are interested in participating email Kathy Lehner at servingwithjoy@gmail.com
Or contact Andy Marrufo,Worship & Creative Arts Pastor at andymarrufo@crnaz.com to learn more about getting involved with this vibrant expression of faith and creativity.