Rev. Russ Billo

Born and raised in southern West Virginia, Russ’s eyes were opened to the saving grace of Jesus Christ at 17 years old in a church gymnasium and realized that he had been relying on his own strength to be saved. Two years later on a mission trip with teenagers, Russ recognized that God was calling him to disciple and equip teenagers to be a light in a dark and dying world. This calling sparked a desire in his heart for young people. After marrying his wife Leah, the new couple moved to Wake Forest, NC where he attended Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Russ graduated and shortly after was called to be the youth pastor at Salem Baptist Church. Russ and Leah have served in ministry together for several years in campus and college ministry and youth ministry. Russ and Leah have two children, Corban Russell and Iris Elizabeth.