_{Pastor Michael was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, but has called quite a few places home—Virginia, Guatemala, and Colorado among them. He’s married to his best friend, Rachel, and together they’re raising three amazing kids: Evelynn, Marcus, and Shiloh.}

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_{Michael didn’t start out planning to be a pastor—he actually has a pre-med degree in Biomedical Sciences from Liberty University—and spent 15 years serving as a paramedic/firefighter. But along the way, God continued drawing him into ministry. Since the day he graduated high school, he’s been investing in the next generation: serving as a camp counselor, leading middle and high school students, establishing a home-based college ministry, spending two years as a missionary in Guatemala, and helping plant a church in Colorado Springs while also serving as a Chaplain in the Air Force Reserves. It was during that season that God made it crystal clear—student ministry is where he’s meant to be. He went on to earn his Master of Divinity from Regent University, equipping him to serve students and families with both passion and purpose.}

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_{Michael has a mission to see students transformed by God’s Word, equipped to share the gospel, inspired to serve, connected in authentic relationships, and fired up to worship God with their whole lives. He loves teaming up with parents in the discipleship of their kids and firmly believes there’s no better job in the world for him than this one.}

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_{As NextGen Pastor, he helps Kaitlyn with the “big picture” of our children’s ministry and will eventually grow into leading more with the college and young adults. His primary focus right now is working toward Grace Student Ministries and seeing our students thrive in a welcoming and Biblical environment.}

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_{He and Rachel love to fill their home with people—whether it’s for a big meal, a board game marathon, or a round of their favorite card game – “500.” Michael may be a bit obsessed with his Blackstone grill and smoker – and he has recently started making bread from freshly milled grain! You can usually find the Pouchot crew enjoying the outdoors, visiting the library, or hanging out at the park.}