Pastor Kelley and Jodi Landenberger were both born and raised in the eastern suburbs of Sacramento, California. Jodi came from a family dedicated to following Jesus and fulfilling their ministry in the church. Kelley on the other hand came from a blended family who did not know Christ or participate in the church. Half of his family was committed to working hard and charting their own course in life, while the other half focused on breaking the law and living for themselves.

Upon graduating from high school Jodi attended Anderson University in Anderson, Indiana and graduated with a BA in Elementary Education. It was in her last year of college that she realized she had left her relationship with Christ behind chasing after dreams that would never fulfill. Jesus healed her in her woundedness upon submitting to him as Lord again.

Kelley considered attending AU, but the sovereignty of God quickly dissuaded him because neither he nor Jodi were ready for each another… Instead, Pastor Kelley attended Azusa Pacific University in Southern, CA on a football scholarship and graduated with a BA in religion with an emphasis in Bible and youth ministry, along with a minor in history, outdoor recreation, and Mexican food. These years brought a new humility to Kelley’s young zealous faith that prepared him for future leadership.

To answer the proverbial question…“Why would anyone move from the golden state, with majestic mountains, loads of recreational/entertainment options, and wonderful weather, to come to Kansas…?” The short answer is “God.” The long answer is “Wichita was a wonderful part of God’s will for us, our family, and the work He wanted to do through us.”

In 1991 Pastor Kelley accepted an offer to come on staff at Central Community Church as an Associate Pastor to Middle School students. After five successful years of ministry at CCC, the Holy Spirit made it clear that He was calling the Landenberger family to something new. Not only was a sixth child birthed into their family in 1996, but a new vision for ministry as well.

In 1997, in cooperation with the state leadership of the Church of God, Anderson, Indiana, Pastor Kelley and Jodi became Church planters and Live Oaks Community Church was born.

Kelley and Jodi celebrated their twenty fifth wedding anniversary this past summer, spending nineteen of those years right here in Wichita. Four of their seven children (1 girl and 6 boys) were born here as well. The Landenberger family enjoys spending time together taking walks, watching movies, planning summer outdoor adventures, and attending family sporting events. Yet, their highest priority is to live and walk in an honest relationship with Jesus Christ and make Him known to others.