Staff and Leadership

Pastor Todd joined the staff at GracePoint in August of 2026. Over the past 27 years he has served in a variety of ministry positions: Missionary for six years, pastor of youth and worship for 12, solo pastor for 11 years and now as lead pastor at GracePoint.

One of his greatest passions is teaching Scripture and helping people see the truths within and then apply to their daily lives. A life transformed by God’s Word. 

Todd met his wife Natalia while he was a missionary in Ukraine and after serving side by side for several years they married in 1999. Todd and Natalia have three children two of which are out on their own. As a couple they enjoy ballroom dancing and have been taking lessons for 11 years. They also enjoy taking their boat out for a day of fishing (Natalia reads while Todd fishes).

Growing up on Minnesota Todd is a avid Minnesota Vikings fan and fully embraces the unofficial motto of Vikings fans: “Someday!” He also enjoys hockey and cheers on the Minnesota Wild and Colorado Avalanche.

Paul Iekel joined the Gracepoint staff in the summer of 2023, but he is no stranger to the church or the community.  Paul and his wife, Sheryl, have attended GracePoint since 2004; During that time he has been a teacher, coach, and handyman, and active in the life of the church in youth, worship, teaching, and evangelism.  Prior to attending GracePoint, Paul connected with church youth through Tentmaker’s Youth Ministry in part time and volunteer positions, and then was the youth director at Elim Mission (EFCA) in Cokato, MN. Paul believes that God wants to use us in whatever we are doing to be making a difference for Him.  God calls the people of His church to show His love to the world and community around us.  Paul’s passion is encouraging youth and adults to discover how God has uniquely equipped each of us to serve Him fully.

Paul and Sheryl have four adult children and two daughter-in-laws living as near as Nebraska and as far as Central Asia. They have three grandchildren (and more foster grandchildren) they enjoy watching grow up.

Favorite Streaming Series - “The Chosen”  - (I LOVE IT!)

Favorite Bible Verse - Acts 8:30-31

Favorite Foods - Ice Cream and BBQ

Activities - Camping, Trumpet, Track, XC Skiing, Biking, Animal Balloons. 

Cheering for - NY Giants, MN Twins, Iowa State, Nebraska, Syracuse