Pastor Kris Kappler

Pastor Kris Kappler brings more than 35 years of global ministry experience to Thrive Church. With a deep heart for people, he serves as a preacher, counselor, and friend—and proudly considers himself one of the church’s biggest fans.

Before coming to Thrive, Kris and his wife Sarah spent 20 years as missionaries, discipling church planters in South Korea, Kazakhstan, and Johannesburg, South Africa. Kris holds a Bachelor of Accounting from Hillsdale College, a Master of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a Doctor of Missiology from Asbury Theological Seminary.

Kris and Sarah have three children: Hannah, Elizabeth, and John. He enjoys walking, riding his stationary bike, watching good movies, and traveling with his family. His ministry is shaped by a deep commitment to the Great Commission and a belief that every church member plays a vital role in God’s family.