Dr. Jeffrey Whitaker is originally from Scotland Neck, North Carolina. After graduating high school in 1978, he joined the United States Air Force where he served for 9 years. While stationed at Homestead AFB, Pastor was introduced to Michelle Jones and they married in 1981. After extensive travel through military assignments, the Whitakers decided to settle in Miami, FL in 1987.
Founding Pastor/Teacher and Visionary, Pastor Jeff’s vision was to establish a ministry that operated in the spirit of excellence and did all the things to the Glory of God. Zoë Ministries (now The Life Church) began in 2004, with just 9 members.
Truly a man of God, he is one that hears the voice of the Lord and obeys. He is a student of the word of God and has been assigned to teach God's people with simplicity. He is a man of great faith, integrity, and has stayed the course. He has unconditional love and compassion for the people that God has placed under his leadership and believes he is fulfilling his purpose for which he was sent.
Pastor Jeffrey attended Jacksonville Theological Seminary and Interdenominational Seminary of Atlanta Ga. Pastor Jeff holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Studies, and a Master of Arts Degree in Administration both from Barry University. He holds a Doctoral Degree in Organizational Leadership and Learning- with a specialization in Human Resource Development (HRD) all from Barry University, in Miami Shores, Fl. He is the Lead Professor of Victorious Living Bible Institute-Miami Site.
In October of 2006, Pastor Jeff was inducted into AIM (Association of Independent Ministers) under the mentorship of Bishop I.V. Hilliard in Houston, TX. He is a valued member of the South Dade Ministerial Alliance (SEDMA) and a member of the Unity Gathering of local Pastors. He is also a member of the NAACP. Pastor Jeff is involved in the community for which he serves.
Pastor Jeff is a devoted husband to his wife Michelle of 41 years, together they have four children LaCrusia, Jalyssa, Joshua, and Jordyn, and four grandchildren Kaleb, Kaeden, Zhuri, and Luna. In his spare time Pastor Jeff enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and watching movies.
Dr. J. Michelle Whitaker is a native of Miami Florida, she is the Founder of Lady 1st Network (an Organization for Pastor’s wives and Minister’s wives) a Nationally Board-Certified Christian Counselor, a SYMBIS and SYMBIS Plus Facilitator (pre-marital/post marital counseling), an educator, and consultant. She is the Director of W.O.W. (Woman of Worth) at The Life Church, teaches bible study and children’s church. She also facilitates Couples Town Hall meetings and Marriage Retreats along with her husband.
Dr. J. Michelle Whitaker is an educator in the Miami/Dade County Public School System where she teaches Cosmetology, Entrepreneurship and Small Business. She is a graduate of Barry University, Miami, Florida, with a Bachelor of Science in Professional Administration, a Master of Arts in Professional Administration and Human Resources, and a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Human Resource Development. She received her certification in Christian Counseling from Victorious Living Bible Institute in 2020 and is a SYMBIS (Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts) Certified Facilitator.
Dr. Whitaker is a Miami native. She has a heart of compassion and a quiet spirit for those in need of encouragement. As a hairstylist, she has heard it all from women of every profession and walk of life. God has given Dr. Whitaker the awesome gift and assignment of fulfilling the need that is almost always looked over, the life and role of The Pastor’s wife. Although, it is unspoken and unseen in the public eye, being a Pastor’s wife can be a very lonely place. Dr. Whitaker has found her calling in the position of Christian Counselor to pastor’s wives, Minister’s wives, marriages, and families. She is preparing to release her first book, 'Remember the Vow'. She is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors and a member of the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. She enjoys speaking into the lives of women and speaking life back into and marriages.
Dr. Whitaker enjoys traveling, reading, watching movies and spending time with her family. She resides in Miami, Fl., with her husband/Pastor, Dr. Jeffrey Whitaker of 40 + years, and together they have four adult children LaCrusia, Jalyssa, Joshua, and Jordyn, and four grandchildren Kaleb, Kaeden, Zhuri, and Luna.
