We love our ministry leadership team, and we think you will too. This group is extremely grateful for the many gifted volunteers that make our ministry efforts more effective.
Lead Pastors, William and Lisa Strickland
Pastor William and Lisa have been happily married since 1991. They have three children; two are married and one is still at home. They provide leadership for our staff and leadership groups. With over twenty-five years of spoken ministry, Pastor William has a passion for communicating. As well, he brings a vast array of administrative leadership experience to our ministry team. Lisa’s responsibilities include office support for our Resource Center. Through her amiable spirit, she provides a prayer covering and a confidential ear for our women and children. However, her biggest task just might be keeping William straight. They both maintain an active social media presence.
Care Pastor, John Whitaker
Pastor John is married to Beatrice (Bea) Whitaker and they have seven daughters. He is a team member whose worth far exceeds our ability to appreciate. As a retired member of the U.S. Navy, John is always ready to report for duty. Pastor John serves as one of our guiding elders, gives oversight to our pastoral care team, and provides guest follow-up. As a grace-filled servant, he actively demonstrates 2 Timothy 2:24-26. He is fond of jalapeno peppers and peanut brittle.
Worship and Youth Pastors, Derek and Morgan Lewis
Pastor Derek and his wife, Morgan are committed members of our ministry team. Their uniqueness places them in the dual roles of Worship Pastor and Youth Pastor. As a gifted musician, Pastor Derek leads our Sunday morning worship band and the midweek music youth group. With great hearts for youth, they oversee our Fortress Youth ministry. If it’s related to worship music or youth ministry, these two will be involved. Derek drives a big truck and loves to hang out. Morgan loves kids and is an elementary school teacher.
Children’s Pastors, Al and Tina Haas
Pastor Al and Tina are some of the most caring and genuine people that you will ever meet. They have two adult children. As they lead our children’s ministries with a sense of humor, they gently encourage children and their parents to follow Jesus. They love and care for each child as though they were their own. Al is retired from the US Marine Corps and is gifted with woodworking. Tina likes to cook and bake. They like working in the yards together.
Associate Pastors, Fred and Carolyn Stallworth
Pastor Fred and Carolyn Stallworth have been married since January 1972. They have two adult children and three grandchildren. As stalwarts in the Christian community, it seems as though they know everybody. Pastor Fred provides pastoral support to our congregation and community at large. Anytime he is needed, he can be counted on to make a hospital visit. On Sundays, his kind demeanor makes him sought out during prayer time. And on Wednesdays, Fred adds his voice to our worship team. As a gifted florist, Carolyn is a owner-operator of a local floral shop. And Fred can play an accordion surprisingly well.
Worship Leader, Pastors Jerry and Debbie Fleming
Pastors Jerry and Debbie Fleming absolutely love being involved in Spirit-filled ministry together. Pastor Debbie leads our Wednesday worship team with positive energy. She’s happiest when she is operating in her calling with a microphone in her hand and a song coming out of her heart. Pastor Jerry always supports Debbie to be her best for Jesus. He is a powerful part of our prayer team on Sundays and Wednesdays. When it comes to needed support for skits or sermon illustration, Jerry has a flair for the dramatic. They’re lifelong residents of Pensacola and love traveling to the mountains.
Church Administrator, Robbie Hodge
Robbie is married to Wayne Hodge and they have two adult children. She is an endearing soul with a proficiency for administrative details. Her daily responsibilities include the handling of communications and finances. With a love for people, she helps oversee our volunteer teams. With a skill for juggling, she never runs out of tasks to accomplish. Most of the time, hers is the voice you’ll hear when you phone our Resource Center. She is the youngest of five daughters and she thinks she is Elaine’s favorite child.
