Rev. Chris Stadler
Lead Pastor
Get To Know Me: Pastor Chris Stadler
Pastor, Firestone Wesleyan Church
In addition to being an ordained Wesleyan Minister, Pastor Chris is a husband, father, and grandfather. He is married to his wife Roxanne, and they have two adult children and one grandchild. He considers himself to be fortunate to have a spouse who is gifted with the ability to teach, and she utilizes her gift from time to time to teach small group studies in the churches where they have been a part.
Before becoming the Senior Pastor at Firestone Wesleyan Church, Pastor Chris served on staff at First Wesleyan Church in Bessemer City where he had been a member for many years. On staff, Pastor Chris served as the missions and evangelism pastor before transitioning to pastoral care. His lay experiences were teaching, administration as a board member, and singing in the choir, to name a few.
After graduating from The Citadel, Pastor Chris took an Army Reserve commission and went into full-time law enforcement with the Gaston County Police Department, where he served in various supervisory roles for many years. He would later become a Gaston County magistrate conducting a wide variety of criminal and civil proceedings, as well as performing weddings.
Pastor Chris’s ministerial training has been largely through Oklahoma Wesleyan University, with some graduate work through Liberty University. He has had a passionate interest in history since childhood and combined with his experiences in the legal realm, it is little wonder that he has such a deep interest in Christian Apologetics and evangelism.
Pastor Chris states: “I cannot recall a time in my life where I have sensed the hand of God mightier than when I answered the call to come to Firestone Wesleyan Church. It is indeed humbling and a privilege to serve along such devoted people. I praise God for the opportunity to serve Christ in this place. He is Lord of all.”
Pastor, Firestone Wesleyan Church
In addition to being an ordained Wesleyan Minister, Pastor Chris is a husband, father, and grandfather. He is married to his wife Roxanne, and they have two adult children and one grandchild. He considers himself to be fortunate to have a spouse who is gifted with the ability to teach, and she utilizes her gift from time to time to teach small group studies in the churches where they have been a part.
Before becoming the Senior Pastor at Firestone Wesleyan Church, Pastor Chris served on staff at First Wesleyan Church in Bessemer City where he had been a member for many years. On staff, Pastor Chris served as the missions and evangelism pastor before transitioning to pastoral care. His lay experiences were teaching, administration as a board member, and singing in the choir, to name a few.
After graduating from The Citadel, Pastor Chris took an Army Reserve commission and went into full-time law enforcement with the Gaston County Police Department, where he served in various supervisory roles for many years. He would later become a Gaston County magistrate conducting a wide variety of criminal and civil proceedings, as well as performing weddings.
Pastor Chris’s ministerial training has been largely through Oklahoma Wesleyan University, with some graduate work through Liberty University. He has had a passionate interest in history since childhood and combined with his experiences in the legal realm, it is little wonder that he has such a deep interest in Christian Apologetics and evangelism.
Pastor Chris states: “I cannot recall a time in my life where I have sensed the hand of God mightier than when I answered the call to come to Firestone Wesleyan Church. It is indeed humbling and a privilege to serve along such devoted people. I praise God for the opportunity to serve Christ in this place. He is Lord of all.”
Rev. Chip Norman
Assistant Pastor
Youth Pastor
Worship TEAM LEADER
Get to Know Pastor Chip Norman
Pastor Chip Norman is a dedicated husband, father, and minister with a deep passion for serving others and pointing people to Christ. Born and raised in Gaston County, NC, Pastor Chip has spent his life rooted in faith, family, and community. He has been married to Kelly, for 25 years, and together they have raised three wonderful sons—Micah, Jadon, and Jonah. With over 25 years of ministry experience, Pastor Chip has faithfully served in a variety of leadership roles. He currently serves as the Assistant Pastor, Youth Pastor, and Worship Leader at Firestone Wesleyan Church, where he brings energy, compassion, and a heart for discipleship to every area of ministry.
Pastor Chip holds a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Ministries from Lee University, along with two Master’s degrees from Liberty University—one in Christian Education and another in Human Services with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. His educational background reflects his commitment to spiritual growth and holistic care for individuals and families.
Ordained in 2014 through the Wesleyan Church, Pastor Chip’s ministry is marked by authenticity, relationship-building, and a deep love for God's Word. Outside of ministry, he is an avid outdoorsman. He enjoys fishing, kayaking, hunting, camping, gardening, and collecting and shooting firearms—activities that not only bring him joy but also allow him to connect with others in meaningful ways.
Whether he's leading worship, mentoring youth, teaching God’s Word, or simply sharing life with others, Pastor Chip is passionate about helping people discover their identity and purpose in Christ.
Pastor Chip Norman is a dedicated husband, father, and minister with a deep passion for serving others and pointing people to Christ. Born and raised in Gaston County, NC, Pastor Chip has spent his life rooted in faith, family, and community. He has been married to Kelly, for 25 years, and together they have raised three wonderful sons—Micah, Jadon, and Jonah. With over 25 years of ministry experience, Pastor Chip has faithfully served in a variety of leadership roles. He currently serves as the Assistant Pastor, Youth Pastor, and Worship Leader at Firestone Wesleyan Church, where he brings energy, compassion, and a heart for discipleship to every area of ministry.
Pastor Chip holds a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Ministries from Lee University, along with two Master’s degrees from Liberty University—one in Christian Education and another in Human Services with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. His educational background reflects his commitment to spiritual growth and holistic care for individuals and families.
Ordained in 2014 through the Wesleyan Church, Pastor Chip’s ministry is marked by authenticity, relationship-building, and a deep love for God's Word. Outside of ministry, he is an avid outdoorsman. He enjoys fishing, kayaking, hunting, camping, gardening, and collecting and shooting firearms—activities that not only bring him joy but also allow him to connect with others in meaningful ways.
Whether he's leading worship, mentoring youth, teaching God’s Word, or simply sharing life with others, Pastor Chip is passionate about helping people discover their identity and purpose in Christ.
Kelly Norman
Children's Director
Get to Know Kelly Norman, Children's Director
Meet Kelly Norman, our passionate and energetic Children’s Director here at Firestone Wesleyan Church! Kelly has been married to her husband Chip Norman for 25 years, and together they have raised three incredible sons — Micah, Jadon, and Jonah.
Kelly's heart for children and families is evident in all she does. With over 25 years of experience in youth and children’s ministry, Kelly has faithfully served alongside Chip to lead and disciple the next generation. She has a true passion for helping children come to know Jesus in fun, creative, and engaging ways — through games, crafts, songs, and Bible lessons that leave a lasting impact.
Kelly also loves organizing events that bring the church family together — from decorating for special occasions to planning activities that create meaningful connections across all ages. Her creativity and love for detail shine in everything she does.
Beyond her ministry work, Kelly is a lover of the great outdoors. Whether she’s fishing, kayaking, camping, hunting, hiking, or off on a spontaneous day trip, she finds joy and renewal in God’s creation. She also has a deep passion for worshiping Jesus through song and enjoys building authentic, real friendships with other women to help them discover their identity in Christ and live in freedom from their pasts.
Meet Kelly Norman, our passionate and energetic Children’s Director here at Firestone Wesleyan Church! Kelly has been married to her husband Chip Norman for 25 years, and together they have raised three incredible sons — Micah, Jadon, and Jonah.
Kelly's heart for children and families is evident in all she does. With over 25 years of experience in youth and children’s ministry, Kelly has faithfully served alongside Chip to lead and disciple the next generation. She has a true passion for helping children come to know Jesus in fun, creative, and engaging ways — through games, crafts, songs, and Bible lessons that leave a lasting impact.
Kelly also loves organizing events that bring the church family together — from decorating for special occasions to planning activities that create meaningful connections across all ages. Her creativity and love for detail shine in everything she does.
Beyond her ministry work, Kelly is a lover of the great outdoors. Whether she’s fishing, kayaking, camping, hunting, hiking, or off on a spontaneous day trip, she finds joy and renewal in God’s creation. She also has a deep passion for worshiping Jesus through song and enjoys building authentic, real friendships with other women to help them discover their identity in Christ and live in freedom from their pasts.
Anne Bame
Choir Director
Get to Know Anne Bame – Choir Director
Meet Anne Bame, our passionate and dedicated Choir Director! With over 30 years of experience in both church music and music education, Anne brings a joyful spirit, deep musical knowledge, and a heart for ministry to everything she does.
Anne began her journey in church music at the age of 16 and has been leading others in song ever since. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Gardner-Webb University and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Wingate University. Throughout her career, Anne has worked with singers of all ages, from young children to seasoned adults, always encouraging them to grow in both skill and faith.
By day, Anne teaches middle school chorus in Gaston County Schools, where she continues to inspire a love for music in her students. She's also no stranger to the stage—whether singing, acting, or directing, Anne has a long history with musical theatre. Some of her favorite moments include playing the Mother Abbess in The Sound of Music and directing beloved shows like Junie B. Jones Jr. and The Lion King Jr..
Anne’s leadership and talents have also been a blessing to the Greater Gaston Baptist Association’s Children’s Choir Camp, where she formerly served as camp director. You might even spot her playing the flute or singing in local performances!
Outside of music, Anne enjoys spending time with her husband and two grown children. She loves hiking, reading, and scrapbooking in her spare time.
We are grateful to have Anne’s gifts and joyful heart leading our choir—she’s truly a blessing to our church family!
Meet Anne Bame, our passionate and dedicated Choir Director! With over 30 years of experience in both church music and music education, Anne brings a joyful spirit, deep musical knowledge, and a heart for ministry to everything she does.
Anne began her journey in church music at the age of 16 and has been leading others in song ever since. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Gardner-Webb University and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Wingate University. Throughout her career, Anne has worked with singers of all ages, from young children to seasoned adults, always encouraging them to grow in both skill and faith.
By day, Anne teaches middle school chorus in Gaston County Schools, where she continues to inspire a love for music in her students. She's also no stranger to the stage—whether singing, acting, or directing, Anne has a long history with musical theatre. Some of her favorite moments include playing the Mother Abbess in The Sound of Music and directing beloved shows like Junie B. Jones Jr. and The Lion King Jr..
Anne’s leadership and talents have also been a blessing to the Greater Gaston Baptist Association’s Children’s Choir Camp, where she formerly served as camp director. You might even spot her playing the flute or singing in local performances!
Outside of music, Anne enjoys spending time with her husband and two grown children. She loves hiking, reading, and scrapbooking in her spare time.
We are grateful to have Anne’s gifts and joyful heart leading our choir—she’s truly a blessing to our church family!
Nancy Newman
Administrative assistant/treasurer
Get to Know Me: Nancy Newman
Administrative Assistant, Firestone Wesleyan Church
Nancy Newman is a devoted mother of five sons, grandmother to 21, and great-grandmother to 12. She was married to the late William Newman, a faithful man of God, who passed into glory several years ago.
Before retiring, Nancy served as the Director of the AVID Rape Crisis Program, supporting individuals and families in both Gaston and Lincoln counties. Her career and personal life reflect a deep commitment to compassion, service, and community.
Nancy has walked faithfully with Christ for over 50 years and has always felt a strong call to serve the church in whatever capacity she was needed. Her willingness to step into a variety of lay ministry roles throughout the years is a testament to her servant’s heart and unwavering faith.
She was deeply honored to be invited to serve as Administrative Assistant at Firestone Wesleyan Church, where she continues to faithfully support not only the operations of the church but the lives of those who call it home. To Nancy, this is more than just a church—it is her church family.
Outside of her ministry, Nancy enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her beloved (and often mischievous) full-blooded beagle, affectionately known as “Tess the Mess.”
Administrative Assistant, Firestone Wesleyan Church
Nancy Newman is a devoted mother of five sons, grandmother to 21, and great-grandmother to 12. She was married to the late William Newman, a faithful man of God, who passed into glory several years ago.
Before retiring, Nancy served as the Director of the AVID Rape Crisis Program, supporting individuals and families in both Gaston and Lincoln counties. Her career and personal life reflect a deep commitment to compassion, service, and community.
Nancy has walked faithfully with Christ for over 50 years and has always felt a strong call to serve the church in whatever capacity she was needed. Her willingness to step into a variety of lay ministry roles throughout the years is a testament to her servant’s heart and unwavering faith.
She was deeply honored to be invited to serve as Administrative Assistant at Firestone Wesleyan Church, where she continues to faithfully support not only the operations of the church but the lives of those who call it home. To Nancy, this is more than just a church—it is her church family.
Outside of her ministry, Nancy enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her beloved (and often mischievous) full-blooded beagle, affectionately known as “Tess the Mess.”
Dr. Keith Denson
Music Director/Pianist
Get To Know Me: Dr. Keith Denson
Music Director & Pianist – Firestone Wesleyan Church
Originally from Lineville, Alabama, I currently make my home in Charlotte, North Carolina, where I continue to pursue my passion for music and ministry. My academic journey in music spans several institutions, including Gaston College, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), Winthrop University, and Wingate University, where I earned multiple degrees focused on piano performance and music education.
As a lifelong pianist, I have received formal training in both classical and jazz styles, which has deeply informed my musical versatility and expression. In addition to my work as a performer and music director, I am also a trained piano tuner and technician, allowing me to serve the broader musical community with both artistic and technical expertise.
Before fully dedicating myself to music ministry and education, I proudly served in the United States Army, where I was primarily stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. My time in the military instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment—qualities I carry into every aspect of my professional and personal life.
Music Director & Pianist – Firestone Wesleyan Church
Originally from Lineville, Alabama, I currently make my home in Charlotte, North Carolina, where I continue to pursue my passion for music and ministry. My academic journey in music spans several institutions, including Gaston College, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), Winthrop University, and Wingate University, where I earned multiple degrees focused on piano performance and music education.
As a lifelong pianist, I have received formal training in both classical and jazz styles, which has deeply informed my musical versatility and expression. In addition to my work as a performer and music director, I am also a trained piano tuner and technician, allowing me to serve the broader musical community with both artistic and technical expertise.
Before fully dedicating myself to music ministry and education, I proudly served in the United States Army, where I was primarily stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. My time in the military instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment—qualities I carry into every aspect of my professional and personal life.
