Lead Pastor/Planter

For the last seven years, Sy has been the lead minister at College Heights Christian Church in Joplin, MO (and worked various other ministry positions since 2010). In that time, Sy gained a greater passion for church planting and helped others see the importance of church plants. Sy has served on multiple church plant management teams over the years. Sy loves his family (Monica and two daughters), the Dallas Cowboys, BBQ, and Lord of the Rings.

Involvement Minister 

Monica has been a stay home mom for the past 8 years and is now back working for the church as Hospitality/Events Coordinator. She worked in this area in college and has a passion for people feeling like they belong and are connected. Monica loves her family, pickleball, messy games, loud music blaring with the windows down, and anything outdoors.

Worship Director

Philip (Phil) Barton is a believer, husband, father, and educator. A product of Collier County, For the past 16 years Phil has been a music teacher in Immokalee and most recently the Director of Bands at Immokalee Middle School. Since becoming a believer, Phil has served as a deacon, youth leader, guest preacher, small group leader, worship musician, and worship leader. Phil and his beautiful wife, Lauren, met in 2009 and married in November of 2012 and have two daughters. The Bartons join The Gathering with direct experience in church planting and facilitating a mobile church.

Elementary Coordinator

Travis Riley is a born-again believer, husband, father, and Realtor. He, and his wife Nikki, have been married since 2008. They are blessed to be the parents of four wonderful kids, Caleb, Asher, Elsa, and Emma. Hailing from Southeast Kansas, Travis has also called Missouri and Oklahoma home. It was in Muskogee, OK, where Travis stopped running from God and began his walk with Christ. Travis and Nikki lived in Southwest Florida for two years from 2008-2010 and moved back in August 2014. Travis attended Ozark Christian College, and he finished his degree in Ministry and Leadership at Dallas Christian College. Passionate about sharing God's Word, he has served in various roles within Children and Youth ministries, teaching and leading others in their walk with Christ.

Early Childhood Coordinator

Heather has trekked all the way from the West Coast; born and raised in Southern California, Heather has over 20 years of children's ministry experience. She has her Bachelor’s degree in both Children’s ministry and Psychology and Counseling. Heather and her family are transplants to the Naples community and are excited to share the love and grace of Jesus with all of those they meet. Heather loves spending time with her family and friends, the Kansas City Chiefs and being crafty.