• Scott Smith // lead pastor

    scott@visitwellspring.com

    Scott Smith serves as the founding and senior pastor of Wellspring Church. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, and completed his Masters degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in May 2013. In 2023, he earned his Doctor of Ministry from Andersonville Theological Seminary. Scott has been married to Mary Jo for 19 years, and they have two children: Grayson and Mollie Kate.

  • Jadon Fricker // Wellspring Kids' Pastor

    jadon@VISITWELLSPRING.COM

    Jadon Fricker, a native of Oklahoma, was raised in church. Since adolescence, he has actively participated in his church’s children’s and youth ministry, recognizing the significance of reaching the next generation for Christ. He recently earned a bachelor's degree in Children’s Ministry from Ozark Christian College. Jadon is currently working on his Master's degree in Strategic Leadership from OCC.


    Jadon married Abby Fricker in 2023.

  • Kent van natta // spiritual formations

    KENT@VISITWELLSPRING.COM

    Kent Van Natta has served in ministry as a lead pastor, interim pastor, life groups director, itinerate speaker, and author since 2000. Kent graduated from UCF with a Bachelor’s degree in Interpersonal Communications in 2003 and achieved a Master’s in Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2006. He has been married to Cassie for 18 years and they have 2 children; Abigail and Nathan.


  • mary jo smith // communications

    mj@visitwellspring.com

    Mary Jo Smith (MJ) is the Director of Communications at Wellspring. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from James Madison University and previously served as an educator. MJ has been married to Scott for over 19 years and is the mother of two children, Grayson and Mollie Kate.


  • Dakota witzman // av & facilities

    Dakota@visitwellspring.com

    Dakota Witzman serves as our Director of AV and Facilities. Raised in church, Dakota’s involvement in serving others began at a young age. He assisted his parents during Sunday school instruction and took on the role of sound operator for the youth group and Sunday school program at the age of 13. Dakota’s commitment to serving Christ and the Church extends beyond visible roles, as he finds fulfillment in the intricate details that often go unnoticed.
    Dakota has been married to Deborah for eight years, and they are blessed with two daughters, Ava and Harper.

  • Heather yerton // Worship Leader & Finances

    HEATHER@VISITWELLSPRING.COM

    Heather Yerton has poured her heart into music, leading worship services in many churches. She pursued her musical education at Central Baptist College. In 2003, she obtained her cosmetology license and dedicated the next ten years to her career as a hairstylist. Upon the birth of her first child, Heather transitioned into the role of homemaker for twelve years. Dane and Heather have been married for eighteen years and have three children.

  • Gray is a lifelong resident of Joplin and has been a dedicated member of Wellspring Church for the past 12 years. A graduate of Joplin High School, he is currently pursuing a degree in History Education at Missouri Southern State University (MSSU).

    Passionate about working with young people, Gray serves as a soccer coach at New Heights Christian Academy, where he enjoys mentoring and encouraging students both on and off the field. With a heart for faith, education, and community, Gray is committed to growing in his walk with Christ and serving others through both church and daily life.

  • Silas is a 2023 graduate of Monett High School and is currently pursuing a Criminal Justice degree at Missouri Southern State University. With a passion for law and service, Silas is focused on making a meaningful impact in both his community and his field. He plans to attend seminary to become an apologist, furthering his dedication to faith and service. Silas is also actively involved in his church, where he strives to live out his beliefs and values.


  • maddie mcclure // intern

    Maddie is a dedicated intern at Wellspring and a proud graduate of Joplin High School’s Class of 2024. Though not raised in the church, God has transformed her life in incredible ways. Now, she strives to set a Christ-like example for those around her, serving wherever she's needed with a heart for ministry. Whether assisting with youth programs, worship, outreach, or behind-the-scenes tasks, she is passionate about using her gifts to glorify God and support the church community.