Leadership

Reverend Gayle Heffley

Pastor Gayle is an ordained Elder in the Church of the Nazarene with more than 28 years of pastoral experience. A preacher, shepherd, and evangelist at heart, she is passionate about helping people experience the transforming love of God and discover what it means to live with holiness of heart and life.

Her ministry is deeply shaped by her own story. Emancipated at age 15 and a survivor of domestic violence, Pastor Gayle knows firsthand that brokenness does not have to have the final word. Her life verse, Romans 8:28, reflects both her testimony and her hope for others:

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”

She believes God can bring beauty from ashes, healing from brokenness, and renewed purpose from even the most difficult chapters of our lives.

At the heart of her ministry is a simple vision for following Jesus:

Loving God. Loving People. Living Hope.

Beyond ministry, Pastor Gayle treasures her family. She is Daren’s wife, mom to Tom, Nicole, and D.J., and grandma to Hailey, Haden, and Daren.

Reach Gayle at pastorgayle01@gmail.com

Call or Text 530-632-1392

Celebrate Recovery Co-Leader | Men’s Ministry Leader

Daren Heffley

Daren was introduced to alcohol and drugs in his early teens, and by his mid-twenties, life had become unmanageable. In 1990, he made the courageous choice to get clean and has remained clean ever since. Today, Daren uses his story to encourage others toward healing, freedom, and lasting change.

A grateful believer in Jesus Christ, Daren has a heart for those facing struggles, temptations, and the many influences that can create barriers in relationships, faith, and community. He serves as a vital part of Arcata Nazarene’s men’s ministry and co-leads Celebrate Recovery with Pastor Gayle.

Reach Daren at darenCRmen@gmail.com

Call or Text 530-632-1381

Kayla Watkins

Kayla Kayla grew up in a home filled with music and worship, and she brings that same heart into her role as Worship Director. With a background in trumpet, bass guitar, and acoustic guitar, she loves helping lead others into meaningful worship.

Kayla gave her life to Jesus at seven years old, and her faith continues to shape her calling. She has a heart for those who feel forgotten, overlooked, or alone, and she desires to help others experience the love and hope of Christ.