Rev. Dr. Kent hinkel

Senior pastor

Pastor Kent and Trish have deep roots in the Midwest and a long tenure at FBC. They have three adult sons, Andrew, Ethan, and Matthew with the oldest (Andrew) married to Raelene. Andrew and Rae also have two precious children. Kent holds a Master of Divinity degree from Sioux Falls Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Kent and Trish are faithfully committed to FBC and believe the church’s best days are yet to come. 

Brandon Smith

associate executive pastor

Rev. Brandon and Melaney Smith have been married for 10 years and have three children:  Luke, Bethany, and Dinah. Originally from Stockton, CA, they moved to Minot in August of 2023, finding a new community and spiritual home at FBC. Rev. Smith holds a Master's Degree from Sioux Falls Seminary and is actively pursuing his Doctor of Ministry Degree. His commitment to theological education and pastoral leadership is evident in his dedication to the church and its congregation. Brandon and Melaney are deeply involved in the church's life and ministry, working together to support its growth and mission. They are devoted to their faith, their family, and to serving the church community, believing strongly in the church's role in changing lives and spreading the teachings of Christ.

Chris & Jess Eaton

Youth Pastor

Chris is our Associate Pastor of Student Ministries & his wife Jess is our Assistant Youth Director


Though Chris & Jess are both originally from Southern California, they have enjoyed calling Minot home since 2015 and became heavily involved with youth ministry in 2011. They praise God for the way He led them to this position in Student Ministries at FBC and are excited to partner with parents in meeting the needs of their students. Chris and Jess’ desire is for every student to know their identity in Christ and to equip them with the practical tools to live out their faith.

Elaine Carlson

Children's Ministry Director

Elaine Carlson, our Children’s Ministry Director, is a tried and true North Dakota girl.  Growing up in a large family of 8, Elaine and her husband Ray have 5 children and 7 grandchildren.  She graduated from Minot State University with a degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood.  She embraces the belief that we are all family and loves the children she ministers to and her church family here at First Baptist.  Passionate about sharing the gospel with children, her desire is to teach children that God’s Word is true and when faithfully read and applied, it will give them direction and power to live a life fully engaged by their faith in Jesus.

Christie Vander Vorst

Preschool coordinator

Christie Vander Vorst is our Preschool Coordinator.  Christie is a North Dakota native and graduate from Minot State University with a degree in Elementary Education. After years of teaching in the public school system, Christie felt God calling her to children's ministry to carry out the Great Commission to God's littlest children. Her desire is for each child to know Jesus in a real way. Christie is excited to partner with our preschool families as they raise children who live and love like Jesus. Christie and her husband, Trent, have 3 children.