Our Staff
the Rev. Michael LeBlanc
Pastor Michael joined our team in July 2021. He was born in Boston but was raised in Polk County. Michael served in youth ministry for ten years before coming to Shepherds and is a graduate of Iliff School of Theology. He is passionate about people and helping them know Jesus. Michael believes the church is how the world will change and he can’t wait to see it happen. He is an adjunct professor of religion at Florida Southern College and is one of the co-conveners of Florida Man Ministries.
Michael is married to his high school sweetheart, Amanda and they have a kid named Annabelle.
Michelle Manzi
Michelle is our Worship Coordinator. Her main job is helping our volunteer leaders lead the congregation in worship. She helps bring musical excellence, technical knowledge and community engagement to our praise team.
Michelle and her family helped make Shepherd’s a reality as a founding member of the church. She has memories of the good old days and dreams about the best days ahead!
Jennifer Guy
Jennifer is the Administrative and Finance Director. Jennifer was born and raised right here in Lakeland. She is a Certified Bookkeeper through the University of Georgia and the American Institute of Professional Bookkeppers. Jennifer currently lives in Lakeland with her son Jackson.
Kyle Francavilla
Kyle teaches Agriculture at a local Middle school and he moonlights as the Youth Director and Lead in the Tech/Sound Booth on Sunday Mornings.
Kyle is a Native Floridian and has been part of the United Methodist Church since Birth. He has a cat named Stella.
Alieth (Ali) DeBourg Lopez
Ali is the Director of Children & Family Ministries. Ali was born and raised in Venezuela and moved to South Florida with her family when she was 12 years old. She and her 7-year-old son enjoy worship music, building Legos, and going to Disney.
Ali holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida International University and is currently working on a Master's Degree in Montessori Education. Ali is so excited to be serving this ministry and the community!
Tom Wright
Tom is our worship coordinator at the Chapel Campus. His background is in classical music with a focus on voice performance.
Tom started to lead worship at a local church in Lakeland and helped them transition from traditional to the contemporary worship style. Since then, he’s moved around to several churches across central Florida and leading worship for over two decades.
Tom is excited to be here at Shepherd’s, sharing his love of music, and helping wherever he can manage.
In his off time, he volunteers with the Lakeland Choral Society where he sings tenor and is on their board of leaders. Tom also attempts to spend as much time as he can with his dog, Rahne.