Matt Ayars is the Lead Pastor of Wellspring Church.

Before coming to Wellspring in 2024, Matt served as the eighth President of Wesley Biblical Seminary and Assistant Professor of Old Testament. Before serving at WBS, Matt served as the President of Emmaus University of Haiti as a career missionary with the One Mission Society.

Matt earned a BA from Asbury University, an MA in Biblical Literature from Wesley Biblical Seminary, and a PhD in Old Testament Studies from the University of Chester.

Matt is the author of several books including:

• Between the Psalms: Exploring the Nature and Shape of Composition
• The Shape of Hebrew Poetry (Brill)
• The Holy Spirit: An Introduction (Seedbed)
• Holiness: A Biblical, Systematic, and Historical Theology (IVP)

Matt and his wife Stacey have five children.

For over 25 years, Jeniffer Dake has inspired audiences across the country with her candid and humorous approach to speaking. She has a deep passion for helping others live to their fullest potential, believing that effective communication and self-awareness are the keys to success. Jeniffer’s experience spans from teaching and mentoring students to preaching Biblical truths at conferences, youth councils, and leadership events.

Her journey began in 1999 as adjunct faculty at Taylor University, her alma mater. She then moved to Nashville, working at Rocketown Youth Services and later touring with Stacie Orrico as a tour pastor. Jeniffer’s insights into emotional health and family dynamics stem from her rich experiences with students and families.

With a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary and a background in Pre-Medical Biology and Theater, Jeniffer brings a unique perspective to her work. When she’s not speaking or writing, she’s enjoying life on the family farm with her husband and two children - baking, gardening, and raising bees.

Karl and Lauren Westwood are Salvationists from the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. They live in London and work at The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters. Karl works in International Development Services, and Lauren works as Communications Specialist for Women’s Ministries.

Through music and words, they seek to reflect the glory of God and to create in a way that honours their Creator.

Karl is a classically trained pianist with a BMus from Trinity Laban Conservatoire and an MA in Music Education from University College London. Lauren, a first-class Literature graduate, recently completed the Emerging Leaders Programme at the Centre for Cultural Witness. Local leaders at Bromley corps, they are invested in the musical and spiritual development of the territory through worship leading and teaching on the Design for Life course, Karl’s leadership of the Territorial Youth Chorus, and the founding of Una Voce, a choir for young adults. In October, they will celebrate six years married.