Our Staff
Rev. Terry Bate, Senior Pastor
Terry is our new Lead Pastor at Flushing Community Church. He and his family will begin their transition into the Flushing area in January 2009. Terry was raised near Ft. Wayne, Indiana and has served on church staffs in Maryland, Ohio and Michigan. Most recently, he was the Associate Pastor of Discipleship at High Pointe Community Church in Byron Center, Michigan.
As our Lead Pastor, Terry’s responsibilities include casting vision for our church, guiding the church in its mission to impact the Flushing community, to preach and teach the timeless truths of God’s Word in relevant and creative ways, and equip us all for service in the Kingdom of God.
Terry is married to his lovely wife Tammy and they have been blessed with two great kids: their son, Corbin, and their daughter, Sutton. As a family, they love to ride their bikes, enjoy movie night and a great bowl of ice cream! Feel free to contact Pastor Terry at terry@flushingcommunity.org with any comments are questions you may have!
Rev. Steve Close, Youth Pastor
Steve was raised in Davison, Michigan, graduating from Davison High School. He received his B.S. in Christian Education from Olivet Nazarene University. He is a 20-year youth ministry veteran, now serving as our Pastor of Community Outreach. Steve works with our creative team and excellent musicians to plan and lead our worship gatherings.
As Community Outreach Pastor, Steve coordinates the ministries of Flushing Community Church with needs and events in the community. Steve also works closely with our Mercy Team, as well as school & civic organizations.
Steve is the staff “gearhead”, enjoying anything with a motor and loud exhaust and he’ll pinstripe anything that will hold still long enough. He’s been married to Julie since 1985 and is a dad to two lovely teenage daughters.
Debbie Simmons, Children's Ministry Director
We are so excited to welcome Debbie Simmons to our staff as our new Children's Ministry Director. She brings a true heart for ministry and a passion for helping your children learn about the love God has for them. Be sure to welcome Debbie and her family to our team!