jf-howard-profile

Dr. JF Howard, Sr.

Senior Pastor

John Franklin Howard (J.F.) was born in Charlotte, NC and raised in raised in both Durham and Albemarle, NC.He has servd as a pastor for 36 years.His call to ministry over these decades has focused on teaching people the life-changing truths of the Bible, with the words of Acts 5:20-21 serving as guideposts to keep him on track to accomplish what God has called him to do:

20 "Go, stand and speak to the people in the temple area the whole message of this Life." 21 Upon hearing this, they entered into the temple area about daybreak and began to teach.

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES

There are three key areas in which J.F would like for people to consider participating in with him:

  1. Prayer Ministry:
    Prayer support is needed now more than at any time in recent memory. If you would commit to praying for the pastor and the staff each day, we can supply you with a prayer guide J.F. wrote called: “The Shepherd’s Staff.” Contact the church office for a copy, provided as a gift from J.F., for free.
  2. Spiritual Gifts:
    The church in the COVID-19 era is going to need Spirit-led and Spirit-filled leaders. If you are interested in exploring how God may be calling you to serve the church of Jesus Christ in their new and unexplored season, J.F. invites you to discover your particular gifts and calling by completing a spiritual gift inventory. Contact the church office and we can provide you with a spiritual gift inventory. As you complete it, we believe God will reveal to you a fresh anointing and equipping for fruitful service in the Kingdom of God.
  3. Discipleship and spiritual growth.
    J.F. leads a Bible study throughout most of the year (usually from September to April). He would love your participation in them. He's currently finishing up a study on the Old Testament Book of Ecclesiastes using the ZOOM platform (a first time ever Bible study on computer for him).
  4. Participate regularly in a small group study
    This is crucial for spiritual growth, connection with other followers of Jesus, and service in our community. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us just how much we need a strong connection to God and to other Jesus followers. If you don’t have a small group, how about praying for God to start one with you?

J.F. Says:

I love being able to teach the principles of God’s Word (whether it is a Sunday morning message, a Wednesday night Bible Study, a small group gathering or a meeting).

When Jesus gave the Great Commission, He defined a central aspect of making disciples as “teaching people to obey” His Word:

19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

~Matthew 28:19-20

WHAT PEOPLE SAY:

"Pastor J.F. Howard lives out his calling with passion and focused purpose in sharing the truth and love of Jesus Christ and providing ministry for others in need. His calm, big picture, strategic approach rises above challenges with innovation, motivation, mentorship, organization, and passion to care for others and grow ministry. Consider connecting with him and the ministry team for opportunities to grow and live out your faith with many wonderful caring people at Central Church."

— NEAL GRIFFIN
Staff and Parrish Relations Committee Chairman