Staff & Leadership

We have a passion for people, our region, and our world. Our culture and leadership is characterized by worship, the love of God, and a genuine call to ministry. 

  • John Bass

    Lead Pastor

    A native of New England, John has been leading Cedar Springs for 25 years. His heart for God, love for people, thoughtful teaching, passion for the Word, and counseling experience has helped our ministry grow into the thriving community of believers we are today. John is married to Karen, the founder of Cedar Springs Church, and they both enjoy time with their two lovable Goldendoodles, Nala & Sammy.

  • Barb Sauer

    Church Administrator

    Barb has been with Cedar Springs since it began meeting over 25 years ago. She is our Church Administrator, and for over two decades has mostly worked behind the scenes taking care of all the administrative details necessary for the church to run smoothly. In addition to being the Church Administrator, Barb is also our head Elder.

  • Karen Bass

    Church founder

    Karen is the founder of Cedar Springs Church, and also serves as one of our Elders. She is married to Pastor John.

  • Tara Villalobos

    Elder

    Tara and her family have been a part of CSC since 2019. Children and education is a ministry close to her heart - she is also the District Administrator for the Hartford Jt. 1 School District. She and her husband, Jason, have been married since 2005 and they have two children - Asmina and Renly. Her favorite bible passage is Psalm 121. 

  • Kelly Balsewicz

    Director of Cedar Springs Ranch

    Kelly took the role of Director of Cedar Springs Ranch (CSR) in 2022 after a number of years on the ranch staff team. CSR is a vital part of the Cedar Springs Church ministry. To learn more about Cedar Springs Ranch and the equine therapy and programs offered there, please visit csranch.org.