Shane Crawford
Pastor
Bro. Shane became the pastor of Sylva Rena in January 2014, after having served at Siloam Baptist Church, West Point, MS and Cason Baptist Church, Nettleton, MS. A graduate of Blue Mountain College, he also earned an MDiv and a PhD in Practical Theology from Mid America Baptist Theological Seminary in Cordova, TN.
Asked what he enjoys most about ministry, he responded, "It's the people. I love to meet people, learn their stories, and see how God works in them and through them over a period of time. Outside of the church, where else can you see such a meshing of people and personalities around a common goal? It's truly a God-thing, you know, 'as He sees fit' for His glory."
An avid reader, Bro. Shane's interests include anything relating to pastoring/preaching, as well as the American Civil War and the U. S. Space program. His taste in music runs through many genres from Christian to country to big band and the blues. He thoroughly enjoys high school and college baseball games and traveling. . . anywhere.
Bro. Shane is married to Jill and they have two sons, Steven, a junior at Blue Mountain College, and Jake, a high school senior.
Asked what he enjoys most about ministry, he responded, "It's the people. I love to meet people, learn their stories, and see how God works in them and through them over a period of time. Outside of the church, where else can you see such a meshing of people and personalities around a common goal? It's truly a God-thing, you know, 'as He sees fit' for His glory."
An avid reader, Bro. Shane's interests include anything relating to pastoring/preaching, as well as the American Civil War and the U. S. Space program. His taste in music runs through many genres from Christian to country to big band and the blues. He thoroughly enjoys high school and college baseball games and traveling. . . anywhere.
Bro. Shane is married to Jill and they have two sons, Steven, a junior at Blue Mountain College, and Jake, a high school senior.
Hayden Eubanks
Associate Pastor/Student Minster
Hayden joined our team in June 2024. Currently a student at Mississippi State University, he is earning his bachelor's degree in philosophy and religion. Upon graduation, he plans to attend seminary. A native of Water Valley and a graduate of Water Valley High School, Hayden excelled in the classroom and in sports--yet, his faith in Christ has propelled him to greater heights as he seeks to know Christ more and make Him known in Water Valley, Starkville, and beyond.
Shawn Truss
Interim Minister of Music
Shawn stepped up to the plate and started leading choir and worship upon the departure of our last minister of music.
Jill Crawford
Ministry Assistant
Jill joined the staff at Sylva Rena in April 2024. She retired in June 2024 from the State of Mississippi. She is the glue that helps hold all things (and Bro. Shane) together. She is the friendly voice on the other end of the line when you call the church office and handles all of the day-to-day duties.
Jill is a graduate of Blue Mountain College and Mississippi State University. Having earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, she worked in the mental health field throughout her career in hospital, residential and day-program settings.
In her free time, Jill may be found reading, watching college sports, or streaming one of her favorite television shows. As a mom of two boys, she has played such an important role in discipling her family and is a true prayer warrior.
Jill is a graduate of Blue Mountain College and Mississippi State University. Having earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, she worked in the mental health field throughout her career in hospital, residential and day-program settings.
In her free time, Jill may be found reading, watching college sports, or streaming one of her favorite television shows. As a mom of two boys, she has played such an important role in discipling her family and is a true prayer warrior.