about

Born in California in the early 60's, Jeff was raised the son of Christian parents. He, along with
his two older brothers and younger sister were in Church a least once to twice a week. His
earliest memories of Church were of learning the stories, events, and people of the Bible.
As he continuedto be exposed to the teachings of the faith, he remembers making a decision
at nine years old; that decision was to put his faith in Jesus as his Forgiver, Savior, and Lord.
He understood that he needed forgiveness and to be made right in his relationship with God.

As life went on, Jeff made a lot of decisions he would later regret. During his teenage years
especially; he lived a life that in very few ways reflected a life committed to the Lord. At
eighteen years old he entered the military and found himself at an interesting crossroad; he
could either continue down the destructive path he was on, or he could turn and head down
a path of life lived by faith in God. He chose the latter.

After getting out of the military Jeff began working with youth at an Assembly of God church in
Northern California. Within a few years he began teaching adult classes and became involved
with music ministry there.

In 1984 he was exposed to the Vineyard movement and, in an investigative way, began to
experiment more with the concept of "Listening to God and doing what He says", rather than
just living a status - quo Christian life. It proved to be very effective; taking seriously the things
he perceived were given to him by the Lord, he began to step out in faith, believing that if he
did his part theLord would do His and that is exactly what happened.

In 1988 he began to pastor a ministry known as Refuge, and, as he put it, "that's what it was; a
Refuge. It was full of edgy Christian musicians and others who didn't feel welcomed by main-
line Churches. We saw our Father do some amazing things. People were coming off the streets,
out of drugs and other addictions — being set free and following Jesus, it was incredible!"

Several years later Jeff became involved with other ministries as well; teaching, working with
musicians and those involved in the dramatic arts, and youth culture. In his involvements over
the years he has found himself in close relationships with leaders and believers of various
denominations and ministries.

Jeff is the proud father of two grown children and is extremely thankful for the close relation-
ship they share. He also has two amazing grandchildren.

Experiences in his life have not been without difficulty. He has experienced the loss of a child,
the pain of divorce, financial challenges and the struggles common to many of us. During some
times of deep despair he remembers the all consuming conviction that there is only one who has
the words of life; one who is the refuge; one who is the healer; the Lord!

With a thankful heart he has seen the Lord's hand of compassion, grace, mercy and healing in
his own life and wants to be a vessel to bring the same to others!