Who we are
Mt. Zwingli Church is a community rooted in a rich and faithful history that began in 1859. For generations, God has been at work here, shaping lives, forming faith, and anchoring this church in enduring tradition. For much of that journey, Mt. Zwingli was denominationally affiliated, and that season played an important role in who we are today.
Now, we are stepping into an exciting new chapter.
In early 2025, Mt. Zwingli entered a new season as a fully independent church, marked by renewed clarity, fresh vision, and a deep commitment to the authority of the Bible. We believe God is calling us forward—not to abandon our past, but to build on it with faith, courage, and hope.
We are a Bible-based church for our community, moving forward together in union with God and with one another. With hearts open to renewal and eyes fixed on Christ, we are expectant for what God will continue to do in and through this church.
Join the union. Join the journey.
Our Pastor
Eli Blackford joined Mt. Zwingli Church as pastor in December 2025, bringing a deep love for Scripture, a heart for people, and a passion for making disciples.
Eli grew up in Wadsworth, Ohio, and later moved to Cincinnati to attend Cincinnati Christian University, where he earned a B.A. in Preaching and Congregational Ministry and a Master of Arts in Religion in Pastoral Leadership. He went on to complete a Master of Arts in New Testament at Johnson University in Tennessee.
Eli spent ten years in Cincinnati serving families and youth through local churches and urban nonprofits. It was there that he met his wife, Kaylah, and they were married in 2021. Prior to coming to Mt. Zwingli, Eli served as the Youth Minister at Southwest Church of Christ in Barberton.
Eli and Kaylah now live in Barberton with their daughter, Noa Josephine, and are joyfully expecting a baby boy in April 2026.
Eli is passionate about helping people understand God’s Word in practical, life-shaping ways. He is excited to serve Mt. Zwingli Church and is committed to fulfilling the Great Commission by making disciples of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18–20).
Contact us
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