Phillip’s response to the Gospel and the Word of God began at a very early age. He grew up in a Christian home with godly parents, and as a child, accepted Jesus as His only hope for salvation. During his high school years, he developed a love for sports, and continued on to play volleyball in university and internationally. While this afforded much worldly benefit, it proved to be a stumbling block in his walk with the Lord. This was evident at the times when being at church and serving in ministry were sacrificed on the altar of volleyball training and tournaments. During his late teens to early twenties, there was very little desire for the things of God, and a greater desire to pursue selfish interests.

In His grace, God got Phillip’s attention with a serious ankle injury, which hindered his ability to play volleyball at a high level for an extended period. It was from then that God gradually drew him closer to Himself and increased his affection for the Lord. Not long after his injury, God graciously gave him the gift of marriage to his long time friend and ‘number one fan’, Shawna. Their union has been blessed with three wonderful boys, Timothy-John, Matthew, and Joseph.

With a desire to make God the centre of his home, Phillip has committed his life to living by the words of Joshua 24:15, “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Over the years, Phillip and Shawna have served in various areas of ministry and continue to do so joyfully and faithfully at Harvest Durham. They deeply desire to see themselves and others grow more and more into the image of Christ. “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit” (2 Cor. 3:18)