Nolan and Kathy have been married for over 30 years, raising three children—Briana, Brittany, and Jeron—while passionately pursuing God’s presence and advancing His Kingdom.

 

Both began ministry leading worship in churches nationwide, including Cypress Cathedral in Winter Haven, where they served before following God’s call elsewhere in 1991. In 2009, they returned as Lead Pastors, renaming the church Champions Church to reflect the victorious identity of God’s people. As part of the Bethel Leaders Network, they carry a heart to bring heaven to earth and see transformation in their city.

 

Nolan, a third-generation pastor, is an anointed singer, trumpeter, and event producer who ministers internationally, releasing healing and encouraging leaders. Kathy serves on the worship team, leads the House of Hope community ministry, and pours her heart into helping others. Together, they love family, people, and seeing lives changed by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Michael and Crystal Avery have been married for 22 years and are the proud parents of two incredible teenagers. Originally from Upstate New York, their journey included a meaningful 10-year season in Nashville, Tennessee, before they made Central Florida home over eight years ago.

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They have been part of the Champions Church family for more than eight years and have faithfully served on the Pastoral Team for the past three. Michael and Crystal share a deep passion for mentorship, discipleship, and the Body of Christ as a whole. Their hearts are centered on discovering the “gold” within every individual—imparting identity through the Father and demonstrating His love to everyone they encounter.

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They love training and equipping others to hear the Father’s voice and to confidently impart His heart and love to those around them. Michael and Crystal also serve as leaders and facilitators with the School of Champions, helping others grow in spiritual maturity and purpose.

T.J. and Briana Latimer have been married for over a year and have joyfully led Champions Church’s Young Adults ministry for the past three years.

 

Before they met, T.J. gained experience leading worship, serving in youth ministry, and working on staff as a missionary with YWAM Orlando. Briana, the daughter of Pastors Nolan and Kathy Edwards, has served in children’s, youth, and young adults ministry for many years and is a graduate of Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry in Redding, California.

 

Together, they have a heart to see young adults encounter God, grow in their faith, and step boldly into their callings. In December 2025, they just welcomed their first son, Elias, into the world.

Rodger and Anna Ricks have been a cherished part of Champions Church for over nine years, faithfully serving in security, ushering, hospital ministry, and leading a Life Group.

 

Married for 25 years, they deeply treasure their family and enjoy fishing, traveling, playing cards, and opening their home to friends. Known for their warmth and hospitality, they are passionate about walking alongside others, fostering a loving, encouraging, and faith-filled community where people feel supported, valued, and connected.

Claudette Collado has been a valued member of Champions Church for over nine years, passionately serving in the Inner Healing Ministry. Her heart is to guide people into a deeper understanding of their God-given value, helping them break free from past wounds and hurts that can cause pain and influence their decisions, relationships, and daily lives. Claudette believes that when people are healed, they are empowered to live the full, abundant life that God desires for them.

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With over 20 years of experience in counseling, Claudette has continually advanced her training, including work with the American Association of Christian Counselors and Bethel Church’s Inner Healing program. She considers it a true honor to walk alongside individuals as they experience freedom, restoration, and the ability to live to their full potential in Christ.