Dr. Robert J. Tennant, Senior Pastor
Rob has been in ministry full-time since he graduated from Emory and Henry College. He believes all Christians are called to live lives of prayer and to be involved in ministries of compassion (helping people who need help) and evangelism (sharing the good news of Jesus Christ). Rob is passionate about preaching and encouraging people as they grow in their walk with Christ. He also loves mentoring younger pastors and believers whether they are new Christians or seasoned disciples who are growing in aspects of the faith. Rob sees his mission to help people reach the point where their lives (their skills, relationships, and experiences), the word of God, and the Holy Spirit all come together.
Rob and his wife Candy have three children, sons Igor and Henry, and daughter Merone. They enjoy family time together playing Legos, Star Wars, playing with friends in the neighborhood, reading books together, and doing jigsaw puzzles as a family activity.
Rob has traveled to Ethiopia visiting orphans and he hopes to include Hillside Church on future trips. Also, when they are old enough, he plans on bringing his own kids along. He’d love it if you considering going along to spend time sharing the love of Jesus with children.
Rob has a bachelor’s degree from Emory and Henry College (southwest Virginia), a Master of Divinity from Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond (Richmond, VA), and a Doctorate of Ministry from Palmer Theological Seminary (Eastern Baptist University in Philadelphia).
Rob is a reader who especially enjoys authors like Fyodor Dostoevsky, N.T. Wright, Eugene Peterson, Alister McGrath, and C.S Lewis. Rob enjoys hiking, backpacking, and camping. He is an avid fan of Michigan/Detroit sports teams (Tigers, Lions, Pistons, and Wolverines) because his early childhood was spent there.
Rob is on Facebook, Twitter, and he writes a blog.
Dongmei He, Chinese Ministry Coordinator
Dongmei and her husband Jian Xiao serve as leaders in our Chinese ministry.
Shemoo Tatatew, Ministry Intern
Sheemoo is a UNC senior art major, class of ’25. She works with our children’s ministry, youth ministry, in congregational relations, and with our Vision team. She began work on May 26, 2025.
Karen Taylor, Administrative Assistant
Karen was born and raised in western North Carolina. When she was accepted into pharmacy school at UNC-CH, she moved to Carrboro with her husband, Eddie. They have one daughter, Anna, and two mischievous mutts..
Starlyn Combs, Worship Leader
Starlyn coordinates our worship ministry, including music, musicians, sound, and video.