Our Awesome Team

David Simpson

Minister

David has been the minister of Lanier Christian Church for 48 years.  He is a graduate of Atlanta Christian College (now Point University) with a degree in Bible and Ministry.  In addition to his love for the Lord and the church, he also enjoys history, museums, the Atlanta Falcons and peanut M&M's. He is married to his wonderful wife Faith (48 yrs) who serves as worship leader for the main campus.  

Mike Thompson

Associate Minister

Mike has served in several areas of ministry over the last 35 years, including Youth, Children, Education, and Senior Ministry roles. He graduated from Atlanta Christian College (now Point University) with a degree in Christian Ministries/Bible and received his Masters degree in History from The Citadel in Charleston, S.C.  Mike came on staff at Lanier Christian Church as Associate Minister in May, 2019. He and his wife, Cindy, have two grown children and servant hearts. We are happy to have them on our team!

Monica

Miller

Secretary

Monica has been our secretary since the beginning of 2017. She loves living in the beautiful North Georgia mountains with her husband and son.   She grew up the daughter of a minister and serves with her husband in ministry in Cornelia. In addition to her commitment to Christ, she is a talented artist and musician and loves chocolate and listening to music all day long.

Jody

Terrell

Youth & Children Minister

Jody comes to us from northern Michigan, but he grew up nearby in Cornelia, GA. He has served in youth ministry in both states as well as music ministry; he is a talented vocalist! He and his wife Megan love traveling, photography and spending time getting to know new people. They have two young energetic sons. Jody started ministry with us in January, 2020.

Joy Griffin

Worship Leader, Lake Service

Joy leads worship for our Lakeside Service most Sundays.  She and her husband, Bryan and two boys are actively involved in sports and community functions.  She is a dedicated Christian having grown up at Lanier Christian Church her whole life.  She is passionate about serving the Gainesville community and loves Mellow Mushroom Pizza.   She is a gifted singer and guitarist.

John Simpson

Minister, Lake Service

John preaches at our Lakeside Service most Sundays.  He and his wife, Ashley and their daughter love being part of our wonderful community.  John has been part of Lanier Christian Church his entire life.  He loves Jesus.  He loves laughter, and he really believes the Atlanta Falcons will win the Super Bowl every year!

Melanie Terrell

Worship Leader

Melanie has been leading worship at Lanier Christian Church for more than 25 years.  She is a graduate of Atlanta Christian College (now Point University). She loves praising Jesus through song. She is a gifted guitarist and plays the banjitar as well.  Melanie brings cheer everywhere she goes and loves taking pictures of the sunrise at the beach every year.  She can't turn down any candy containing caramel. 

Faith Simpson

Worship Leader

Faith has been leading worship at Lanier Christian Church for more than 40 years.  She learned guitar by her dad teaching her chords on the ukulele. She began singing in public when she sang for her cousin's wedding at the age of four.  Her love for the Lord is obvious as she plays and sings songs of praise at home most every day!  Faith is a graduate of Point University, Brenau and Liberty University and served as an educator for more than 40 years. She is known outside of church as a former coach for girls basketball, softball and track for Gainesville High School. 

Elders

The Elders of Lanier Christian Church provide accountability and shepherding for the membership of the church.  Each one loves the Lord and the church.  We are thankful for their leadership and service!  Our current elders are: Bryan Griffin, Ron Loggins, Wesley Owenby, Adam Vining and Wally Thweatt.