church leadership

jesus christ is

the head of our church

Meet Our Pastors & Elders

darrell koop

lead pastor & elder

Howdy! It’s an honor to be the pastor of this great church. Niki and I moved to Williamson County in 2000 to start this church in our living room. We have 3 kids, Kaleb, Noel and Danielle. I’m an Aggie, class of 1990 and later went to seminary at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary for a masters of Divinity with Biblical languages. I love turtles and landscaping. Niki is a physical therapist. I hope to meet you in person on Sunday!

BRIAN SHANKLIN

ROTATING PASTOR & ELDER

I am a teaching pastor and I travel and speak at both campuses. My father was a pastor and I was the prodigal son. I tried doing life my way, but God had different plans. I have a passion for God, learning God’s Word, and teaching His Word and His Truth to others. God has truly blessed me with an amazing wife Jennifer, and four great kids. I am a full-time HVAC contractor and our greatest ministry is the day-to-day life we share with others. We would love for you to join us at Upwards Church where Jesus is King and Lord of Lords, God’s Word and Truth is spoken and shared, and the people are real! Hope to see you soon!!

GERRY CLAGGETT

ELDER

I grew up in a small New Hampshire town, kicked around at the University of NH, the Peace Corps and the U.S. Army before FINALLY coming to Jesus as my living Lord &
Savior in Ireland. Naomi & I have been involved in all kinds of churches seeking to love God, love people & share Jesus. After a career in IT and raising a family of three boys, we’ve ended up in TX as a retired couple near our son and his family in Leander. We found a great church home here at Upwards Church. I’m an Elder and involved with the Men’s Connect Group, studying the Bible as Upwards makes its way through the entire Bible in five years. Naomi & I serve in kids ministry, music, lawn mowing and prayer team.