Our Leadership
Resurrection Hope will be an elder-led, congregational church that is governed by a Book of Order. That means that Resurrection Hope will be led by a plurality of elders who are called to pastor the flock; while the congregation will also play an integral role in affirming decisions made by the elders and contributing to the life of the church.
Church Planter
Thomas was born and raised in Monrovia, Alabama by two faithful parents who showed him what it looks like to follow Jesus - through their discipleship, as well as the influence of many in the local church, God graciously saved him at a young age.
Some formative experiences in Thomas’ life include: growing up in a tight-knit family, losing his younger brother to cancer, wrestling through seasons of anxiety, being shaped by a handful of mentors, ministering to a grace-filled congregation, and playing an integral part of a church plant for the past decade. Through it all, the hope of Jesus Christ has been the theme - a theme that now animates Thomas’ life and ministry.
In his free time, you might find Thomas coaching soccer, hiking, or trying a new restaurant around town with his lovely wife, Megan. Thomas and Megan have three children: Addie (11), Elijah (8), and Olivia (6).
Our Story: A Call to Church Planting
A few years ago, I connected with a local group of pastors that meet regularly in order to pray, encourage one another, and discuss relevant ministry topics. One particular week, a pastor asked me, “have you ever considered church planting?” Honestly, up to that point, I hadn’t.
Now, I can see that God used those pastors, that particular question, and a bunch of life experiences to call me to plant a new church. I began to read everything that I could get my hands on about church planting. Books like Center Church, Planting by Pastoring, The Trellis & the Vine, and Church Planting Thresholds- to name a few.
Then about two years ago, Megan and I began to pray for clarity and opportunity. And, in the Fall of 2024, Megan and I went through a rigorous church plant assessment with the network, Great Commission Collective. About a dozen people who know me well, assessed me in areas such as: spiritual vitality, emotional health, theological clarity, conviction, marriage, relationships, Godly leadership, spiritual maturity, missional lifestyle, innovation, and disciple-making. GCC affirmed my character, calling, and competencies; and have invited me to plant a church through their network.
In a lot of ways, it doesn’t make any worldly sense. I’m trading stability with uncertainty. Megan and I know it will be hard. We’ve counted the cost. And yet, we believe that God is calling us to build a new church to reach new people with the hope of Jesus Christ. We’re so excited for the journey ahead!
In August, I will transition out of my roles and responsibilities at Valley Presbyterian Church, so that I can focus on church planting. It will be a bittersweet day, for sure. I love the people of Valley. My family has worshipped at Valley for 11 years, and I’ve had the privilege of serving on staff for over half of the church’s existence! I am thankful for the relationships we have built, the prayers we have shared, and the growth that we have experienced together. We could not take this step in faith without the prayer and support from our family, our church, and our friends.
So what’s next?
Beginning in September, I will have the opportunity to preach at several sister churches. I will also be a part of a year-long church planter training with GCC. This training/cohort is fully remote, with four in-person gatherings. An important part of planting is provision for the process. We’ve already seen God’s kindness and provision in many ways. Would you please pray for me and my family as we take this big step of faith? Would you pray specifically that the Lord would save and send people? Would you pray that the Lord would be glorified, and new disciples would be made?
Finally, I just want to say thank you to the many faithful pastors, family, and friends who have been walking alongside of us and encouraging us the past couple of years. There are too many to mention, but you know who you are. I love you all.
All for Jesus!
Whether you are exploring Christianity, or you are a follower of Christ; whether you are new to the area, or simply looking for a new church home—I just want to say welcome. We would love for you to join us. We believe the hope of Jesus Christ changes everything.
