Scott Knight, Pastor
God forged Scott through a variety of experiences before he became the founding pastor of Rivanna Community Church in 2009. To the expected seminary studies (Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Master of Divinity in 2006) and pastoral experience (he served as an associate at both Christ Community and Blue Ridge Community), God added language school in Costa Rica; a year aboard the Mercy Ships; starting his own painting business; and a year as a pastor-missionary in Slovenia. Scott is married to Jennifer, his high school sweetheart, and they have three children. When he’s not studying or with the good people of Rivanna, Scott loves many forms of adventure, creative expression, and exercise. Scott loves meeting new people and sharing the vision of Rivanna, so feel free to contact the church office to connect.
Mark Nelson, Elder
Mark is a divinity school graduate, an alumnus of the University of Virginia School of Law and returned to Charlottesville in 1994 to practice law. Prior to law school, Mark worked in the business world as an accountant and spent one year living and working in Jerusalem. Mark and his wife Cindy (who you will also find working at his law firm), have raised four children in Charlottesville and enjoy spending time with four generations of family living in the local area as well as four young grandchildren. Mark has also served the local community through the Chamber of Commerce, the United Way and the Albemarle County Rotary Club.
Steve Hood, Elder
Steve is a Virginia native, a George Mason University graduate and traveled the world serving as a U.S. Army officer for over 26 years. He commanded the National Ground Intelligence Center in Charlottesville for two years and during that time, he and his family found a permanent home in Charlottesville. His wife Katy and three boys remained in Charlottesville while he deployed to Iraq before returning home to retire from the Army and plant his roots at Rivanna and our local community. Steve is a lover of all things healthy, avid exerciser and master of smoked meats.