About Us

 

James Johnson, Pastor

James Johnson was born to Seventh-day Adventist boarding academy teachers in Houston, Texas, and has also lived in North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee, and Michigan. He describes himself as a beloved child of God, a follower of Jesus Christ, a husband to an amazing and beautiful wife, father of two beloved children, and a pastor. James has been given the spiritual gifts of teaching and apostolic ministry, and is passionate for his children and for youth and young adults. James seeks partnerships with families to raise disciples of Jesus who reach people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. He has served as a Student and Assistant Chaplain on the university level, as an Associate Pastor with an emphasis in Youth Ministry, and as a Senior Pastor in the Tampa, Florida area.

 

 

Freddy Rodriguez, Associate Pastor/Youth

Pastor Freddy was born into a pastoral family in Colombia. When he was three years old, his family moved to Mexico, where his father served as a Youth Pastor in Montemorelos Adventist University. Inspired by his parents’ example of service, he accepted God’s calling into ministry after his junior year in high school in Medellin, Colombia. He has served as an Associate/Youth Pastor, Chaplain at Greater Miami Academy, and as the Associate Youth, Young Adult, and Pathfinder Director for the Florida Conference.

Freddy’s purpose in life is to connect his family and others to Christ, church, and the community. He is married to Ruby Corniel, with whom he has two sons, Eduardo (13) and Alejandro (9). His hobbies include bicycling, triathlons, and any outdoor activity with his family that inspires and helps them connect with God. He loves to eat and share meals with family and friends, looking forward to the ultimate dining experience at Jesus’ table in heaven!

 

 

Cheryl Smith, Office Manager  

In 2016, Cheryl and her husband Tom came to Florida from Maryland to be closer to family.  Happily, they also found a church family at the Apopka SDA Church.

Cheryl is no novice at denominational work, having served God on many levels:  as a volunteer at her local church, Administrative Assistant at the General Conference, Payroll Administrator at North American Division Retirement, Associate Youth Director and Youth Director for the Chesapeake Conference.

Not surprisingly, her passion is that the church family, especially the youth, experience a real relationship with Jesus in every aspect of their lives.  She wants everyone to know that God is real and will never give up trying to connect with His children.  She emphasizes the need to listen for His still, small voice.

Cheryl and Tom raised a daughter and a son and have six grandchildren, with whom they spend as much time as possible.  Cheryl also enjoys her friends and her puppy Zoey, spending time at the beach, making crafts, working jigsaw puzzles, and traveling.

 

 


Church History

The Apopka Seventh-day Adventist Church was organized on January 7, 1956 with 57 members. The congregation moved several times before building a facility on South Highland Avenue in the early 1960's. The church quickly grew and needed a new expanded facility. Land was purchased on Votaw Road in Apopka. The first phase, which includes a social hall, offices and classroom facilities, was completed in 2003. Worship is currently being held in the social hall. The construction is now well underway for Build 7, which will complete a sanctuary, a gymnasium and additional classrooms to advance the church's vision of serving the community seven days a week.

 


Church Mission

To extend the ministry of Christ to our community with hope and wholeness.

 


Church Vision

Build 7 - Sharing Jesus with our Community 7 Days a week

"The Apopka SDA Church is a beacon of warmth and light illuminating Gospel-centered messages of truth. And where the Gospel of Jesus is preached, there is love.

 

"This is exactly what I have found at this church:  love - in all colors, shapes and sizes, packaged with grace."

 

Chris

 

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"For me, attending the Apopka SDA Church has been a life-changing experience.

 

"I have gained more knowledge about Christ at this church than at any other church I have attended."

 

Fred

 

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"I always feel comfortable at the Apopka SDA Church because the members are so compassionate. This was displayed most recently during the illness and eventual death of my mother."

 

Martin

 

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"I love the Apopka SDA Church because the members are so friendly, and they know the power of prayer.

 

"For me, it is a healing place."

 

Merion

 

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