A path winds through the woods

Church Leadership

Teaching Elder

Pastor Brad Johnston

Brad Johnston

A native of Indianapolis, Brad pursued journalism early in his career, working as a correspondent for the Indianapolis Star newspaper. Called by the Lord to the pastorate when he was in his early twenties, he attended the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before accepting the call from Topeka in 2010, he served as the pastor of the Walton RP Church in New York. He and his wife have four children. Brad is working to visit all the state parks in Kansas–someday!

Ruling Elders

Larry Copeland


Larry was born and raised in Kansas. He is a life-time member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. He is married, has four children, and ten grandchildren. For 28 years Larry has been an elder in the Topeka Reformed Presbyterian church.

Bill McFarland


A lifelong Kansan, Bill was a Social Studies teacher at Washburn Middle School for over 40 years. He has written a book called, Keep the Flag to the Front, the story of the 8th Kansas Infantry in the Civil War. In retirement, Bill continues his interests in all aspects of history, including church history. A pastime of Bill’s is taking part in Civil War reenactments and living history.

Kyle Reed


Kyle was born and raised in Sterling, Kansas. He and his wife Elizabeth have lived in Topeka for over 20 years. Kyle enjoys working with young people in his job as a Public School Administrator at Washburn High School. Kyle and Elizabeth have four children.

Wayne Curry


Wayne was born in Winchester, Kansas, and lived for many years in southwestern Kansas where he farmed and ran his own construction company. He and his wife Anita moved to Topeka to be near their children and grandchildren. He is a lifelong member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church.

Jonathan Parnell


Jonathan is an attorney who has a passion for biblical peacemaking. As a Christian Conciliator certified by the Institute for Christian Conciliation, Jonathan has served as a mediator or arbitrator for numerous business, family, and church conflicts. Jonathan and his wife Lisa have three children.

Deacons

Following the apostiolic tradition, Topeka RP Church has a board of deacons who serve the church. They are tasked with managing the church’s mercy ministry, finances and physical properties.

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