Elders Todd Fink, Mike Rawls, Jeff Balsom, Phil Lasarsky and Jim Lefler

We are grateful for the service of the five men who serve as elders of the Chicago Church of Christ.

Jeff Balsom

Jeff is an elder serving primarily in the West Suburban Ministry Center and living in Wheaton. He and his wife, Roberta, have served the Chicago church in the ministry together since 1992. They became Christians as singles in Columbus, Ohio in 1979, married in 1980 and moved to the Chicagoland area in 1988. They have three children - Paul, who is married to Sara, Susan and Alex. Jeff and Roberta feel called to help others build strong marriages and families.

Todd Fink

Todd committed his way to serving Jesus as a college freshman in 1978 at the University of Colorado. He shared his passion for God with his high school sweetheart, and she became a Christian soon after that. Todd & Cheryl were married after graduating from college with degrees in Chemical Engineering and Elementary Education, respectively. Together they have served in multiple churches in a variety of different ways for over 25 years. Todd & Cheryl have three wonderful daughters, Allyson (20), Kelsey (18), and Courtney (15). Todd is blessed to own a business, Therafin Corporation, where he serves as the president.

Phil Lasarsky

Phil Lasarsky was appointed an elder on Easter Sunday in 2008.  He and his wife Kim have been faithful Christians for nearly 30 years.  They are courageous disciples who are known for their deep love for God's word and for their personal example.  Phil, whose personal passion is Old Testament Studies, has served in many leadership roles in the church over the years and was appointed as one of our teachers in the Chicago Church several years ago. 

Jim Lefler

Jim Lefler was appointed to the eldership in 1996.  He and his wife Virginia—who is known for her books for Christian women—now live in Downers Grove, IL and serve the Central Ministry Center. Married in 1972, they have been in the Chicago Church since 1986. They have two married sons. Jeremy and his wife Mwende are in the Chicago Ministry Center and have two daughters. Nick and his wife Christine are disciples in the West Suburban Ministry Center. Jim recently published his first book, “The Complete Guide To Grace.”

Mike Rawls

Mike Rawls was appointed to the eldership in December of 2008. He and his wife, Daphne, have been Christians for nearly 30 years.  They, along with their children Nick and Brittany, epitomize faithfulness, humility, servitude and love. They have served the North Suburban Ministry Center for many years and currently live in Palatine. Mike is a sales rep for the Frito-Lay company.