TRU Church Staff

The Tru church staff serves the church in rolls that help empower and equip followers of Jesus to carry out the mission of Jesus. 

Click below to learn more abou each person and their ministry

  • Dr. Art Matheny, Lead pastor

    Raised in a small farm town in Iowa, Art first became a follower of Jesus when he was nine years old. The town he grew up in had big front porches and no fences. He has pastored for nearly 25 years as a Youth Pastor, Lead Pastor/Church Planter, Revitalization Pastor, and Pastor of Discipleship.


    Email: art.matheny@tru.church

  • Kayla Talarico, Creative Arts & student Director

    Born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, Kayla grew up in a single parent household and always valued the Lord and his provision. Following her call to ministry, Kayla moved from Nebraska to Manhattan, Kansas and attended Manhattan Christian College. There she met her husband Nathan, and graduated in May of 2020 with a Bachelor's Degree in Bible and Leadership with emphases in Worship and Counseling. She enjoys music in many forms and genres and loves baking sweets!


    Email: kayla.talarico@tru.church

  • James Helton, Digital Engagement Pastor

    James grew up in the church and crossed the line of faith as a high school student.  He graduated in 2002 from Central Christian College of Kansas with a Bachelor's Degree in Ministry and was ordained in the Wesleyan Church in 2004.  James has served across Kansas and Nebraska as Youth, Worship, Lead, and Church Plant Pastor.  He and his wife Amber have been married 21 years and have 4 beautiful daughters.


    Email: james@tru.church

  • Erin pittenger, Children's Director

    Erin Pittenger was born in the early 80's- a time when a trip to the "Toys R Us Store was on every kid's Saturday morning wish list. While she didn't step foot into the store until her early adult years, Erin vowed at an early age to never "grow up" because, after all, she is a "Toy's R Us kid"!  This life motto has faired her well as she absolutely cherishes her time with family and being her goofy self around kids. While having fun and coordinating creative experiences is one of Erin's jams, she also has a serious side and a deep dedication to education and lifelong learning.  She earned her Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education from KSU in 2004, her Master's of Science in Curriculum and Instruction in 2010 and continues her education to be the "best teacher God made her to be." Besides her family, she is passionate about sharing the love that Jesus gave her and walking closely with the Holy Spirit.  She enjoys art, reading, going for hikes and jogs, coffee dates and planting irises.  


    Email: erin.pittenger@tru.church