Mark Hodges has served as our lead pastor since 1981. He has invested 40+ years of pointing people to Jesus and teaching them to live dynamic and productive lives for Christ.

Through his leadership, the church has sent out many Christian workers (pastors and missionaries, etc.) along with starting over 20 churches in the U.S. Having a heart for missions, he has traveled to over 35 countries, ministering to missionaries, leading adult and teen mission trips as well as challenging our church to give over 4 million dollars to missions.

Raised in Winter Haven, he is a graduate of Winter Haven High School. His formal education includes Bachelor degrees in Religious Education and Ministry in Theology from Faith Bible College & Theological Seminary and a Master of Arts in Communication from Louisiana Baptist University.

Pastor Hodges has two children (Robert & Sarah) who are now married and serving full-time in Christian ministry; and also five beautiful grandchildren. After serving together 39 years, his wife Denise went to be with the Lord.  He enjoys time with the grandchildren and watching Florida Gator’s football and Boston Celtic’s basketball.

Pastor Hodges’ prayer is that God will use him and the good people of this church to continue “Loving God, Loving Others, and Making a Difference".