53rd Avenue Church of Christ

Staff

Derin Dopps

Preaching Minister

Derin Dopps is a minister, preacher, teacher, storyteller, writer, and lifelong student of Scripture—and most importantly, a follower of Christ. Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, he has lived across the Midwest and now resides in Florida. His ministry and life have been shaped by experience in healthcare, education, filmmaking, music, worship leadership, apologetics, youth and family ministry, and short-term missions around the world. For more than 30 years, Derin has preached and taught in churches, schools, camps, retreats, and ministry events. He is known for combining biblical depth, historical context, humor, storytelling, and practical application, always pointing people to Jesus. He and his wife, Amanda, have been married since 1998 and have three children: Lucas, Jason, and Jessica. Family is central to his life, and together they enjoy beaches, theme parks, and food. Derin is grateful for the Church and believes every time God’s people gather around His Word, He invites them to know Him more deeply and follow Him more faithfully. His message is simple: the gospel is our only hope, Jesus still changes lives, grace is greater than failure, the tomb is empty, and the invitation to follow Christ remains open to all.

Austin Girts

YOuth and Family Minister

Austin Girts is a graduate of Heritage Christian University where he received a B.A in Biblical Studies.  Austin is dedicated to serving teens and their families and helping them build relationships with God and one another. Austin and his wife, Maddie, joined the 53rd Ave. Church of Christ in January 2024.

Austin can be contacted at agirts@students.hcu.edu

Lon Schindler

Evangelist Emeritus

Lon Schindler graduated from Preston Road School of Preaching, Dallas, TX, in 1978.  He has preached in Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Texas, and now the beautiful state of Florida as well.  Lon has always placed a strong emphasis on personal evangelism and church growth.  Lon joined the ministerial staff at the 53rd Avenue church of Christ in February, 2014.

If you would like to contact Lon, you can e-mail him at lonschindler@hotmail.com or call him at 972-832-5323.

Renee Inman

church secretary

Photo Coming Soon

Renee can be reached by email at office@53avecofc.org or by telephone at the church office at 941-753-4153.