Michael's Educational Background

Master of Divinity 05/2021                                                                                                                                                                

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary – Wake Forest, NC

Master of Business Administration   08/2010                                                                                                                                 

Taylor University – Indianapolis, IN

Bachelor of Science in Recreational Leadership with a cognate in Fitness and Wellness 08/1999

Minor in Psychology

Taylor University – Upland, IN

Michael's Professional Background

Michael graduated college in 1999 & served as a recreation coordinator for the Wauseon Parks and Recreation in Wauseon, Ohio. He was called by God to Delray Beach, Florida in Oct 2002 to supervise at the “505” Teen Center working for the Delray Beach Parks & Recreation. In May of 2004 pastor Michael was called by the Lord to serve as the Youth Director at Soncoast Community Church in Boca Raton, Florida. It was there where he met my wife & after getting married we moved back to her home town area in Sunset Beach, North Carolina where he worked in the family businesses from June 2006 through 2012. His heart & my call were in ministry so in 2012 he went back into youth ministry part-time then full-time shortly after. Michael served as a youth & family life pastor at First Baptist Shallotte from 2012-2022 until he was called as the Senior Pastor at River of Life Baptist Church in December of 2022.

What Excites Michael Most About Serving the Lord Here at ROLBC?

Michael is blessed to serve alongside a wonderful church family that genuinely loves Jesus & loves others well! We have a wonderful range of people from all different walks of life & it’s a blessing to serve the Lord alongside of them.

Michael's Favorite Super Hero Is...

Wolverine. Cause it’s great, to be, a (Michigan) Wolverine!
 

Michael's Favorite Bible Character Is...

Michael has three: Nehemiah because of his leadership & desire to honor God in everything he did & in his ability to rebuild the walls in 52 days despite constant opposition. Joshua, because he was strong & courageous & led the nation to the Promised Land. Peter because he was rash & impulsive yet earnestly desired to serve the Lord as he would take a few steps forward, one backward, then more forward, etc. but he kept moving & after being filled with the Holy Spirit he preached passionately for the Lord.
 

Michael's Favorite Hobby Is...

Running... But it’s a love hate relationship he has with it.