I’m pretty much a Florida native, I was born in southern California but moved to south Florida when I was 2. I spent most of my childhood in Ocala, FL. After high school I attended Florida Christian College (now Johnson University Florida) in Kissimmee, FL from 1998-2002, where I received a B.A. in Bible and Youth & Family Ministry and Lincoln Christian University from 2012-2014 where I received a M.A. in Intercultural Studies. I married the love of my life Dawn in 2000 and have been blessed with two great kids Chloe and Judah. After spending the last 14 years in youth & family ministry I transitioned into the lead pastor role here at Homeport in August 2014.
Who or what has been a great influence in your life?
A couple of things really shaped my life. First, my mom who raised me and my sister. My mom showed me unconditional love and what hard work and determination look like. My youth minister Pete took me to summer camp when I was a junior in high school and there I fell in love with working with youth and wanting to serve God with my whole life. Also my first trip to Haiti really impacted me and opened my eyes up to what God is doing all over the world.
What is your favorite music?
I am very eclectic. I listen to everything from acoustic singer/ song writers to rap. Some of my favorites include U2, Bob Dylan, Mat Kearney, Lecrae and all the guys on Reach Records. I also have been known to get down to some instrumental Reggae and Big Band music.
What books inspire you?
In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day and Circle Maker by Mark Batterson, The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald Whitney, The Whole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns, On The Verge by Alah Hirsch and Dave Ferguson, Encountering a Theology of Mission by Ott & Strauss and Radical by David Platt
What is your favorite food?
Buffalo Wings, especially from Booth’s Bowery in South Daytona, FL, the only item I've ever ordered on their menu in since 1996.
What is your favorite movie or TV show?
West Wing, Psych, Chuck, The Office, The 100, The Last Ship and Phineas and Ferb. Also I love Hotel Rwanda, Blood Diamond, and The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love to spend my free time with people, especially my wife and kids.
What is a little known fact about you?
I got engaged to my wife Dawn after only knowing her for three months.
What are you passionate about?
Helping people understand how much God loves them. Serving those in need any where in the world. World Missions. Raising up generations of people who serve God wherever He calls them.
What is your favorite quote?
“Rage against your own indifference” - Bono
