Lead Pastor – Dan Sergeant
Pastor Dan grew up in Northern IL, but went to school in Oklahoma City at Mid-America Christian University. He graduated in 2001 with B.S degree in Bible Theology & Pastoral Ministry. He then returned to Northern IL where he pursued ministry as an associate for 5 years. In 2004 Dan was ordained by the Church of God based in Anderson, IN. In 2006 he accepted the call to NHF as the first pastor of this newly formed church body. In 2025 Dan started a 3-year Doctorate of Ministry program though the University of Dubuque. He and Melissa have been married since 1999 and have 4 children – Kaylee (& Matt) Hamon, Olivia, Nate & Sam.
Dan’s passion for ministry is to be a part of a local body that develops disciples of Jesus Christ. Dan loves working alongside and developing young leaders. He loves serving and shaping a body of believers who serve alongside other Bible believing churches and ministries as we prepare for Christ’s return.
Associate Pastor – Nick Tornabene
Pastor Nick grew up in the Chicago suburbs and graduated from North Park University in Chicago with a teaching degree in Physical Education and Special Education. He worked at Focus House in Rochelle, IL, for seventeen years educating, mentoring, and working with troubled youth. He has been married to his wife, Chris, since 2003 and they have two children, Stella and Vincent.
In 2015, Nick felt the Lord’s calling into ministry. He resigned his position as an educator and in June 2016 he took on the duties of Associate Pastor at New Hope Fellowship. Pastor Nick has been ordained through the Church of God based in Anderson, IN.
Nick’s passion in ministry is focusing on refining, strengthening, and discipling individuals and families through the church body. He firmly believes that Christianity is not just about believing, but it is continuing to have a deeper walk and relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “No matter where you are in life or what storms you are facing, it is all about giving God the glory and serving Him.”
Worship & Youth Pastor – Matt Hamon
Matt Hamon grew up in Columbus, Indiana, and graduated from Judson University in Elgin, IL, in 2024 with bachelor’s degrees in Worship Arts and Architecture. While at Judson, Matt was involved in the university chapel worship team and production team. He has also served in worship ministry at First Baptist Church in Columbus, Indiana, and as a worship and small group leader at Green Lake Conference Center.
Matt began attending New Hope Fellowship in 2025 and quickly became involved in the worship ministry. He has served as a volunteer worship leader, helping plan and lead worship services, coordinate rehearsals, develop worship teams, and lead worship for our youth group. He brings experience with piano, guitar, vocal leadership, Planning Center, ProPresenter, and other aspects of worship ministry.
Matt’s heart for ministry centers on worship and the next generation. He believes God is at work in the lives of young people and desires to help students grow in their relationship with Christ, discover their spiritual gifts, and become active participants in the life of the church. He is passionate about developing both students and worship team members rather than simply doing ministry for them.
Church Secretary – Kim Forni
Kim has lived in Northern IL her whole life with her roots beginning in the rural farm community. She is married to John her earthly rock and best friend and has 2 grown children a wonderful son-n-law, sweet daughter-n-law and 6 grandchildren.
As a child, God was softening Kim’s heart to prepare her to accept Jesus Christ as her Savoir at a young age. Christ has been Kim’s true rock and refuge throughout the joys and storms of her life.
Kim joined New Hope Fellowship Church staff on March 2012. She feels honored and blessed that she is able to call being a church secretary her job, and especially blessed to do life alongside the Pastors and the wonderful people that call New Hope Fellowship their church home.