Josh Gribble
Lead Pastor
I have been part of the Haven Fellowship Church family since 2019, serving first as Associate Pastor before stepping into the role of Lead Pastor in 2026. My ministry journey began in 2007 and has included opportunities to serve in children’s, youth, and pastoral ministry, along with a variety of supporting roles that help churches communicate and connect with people.
My passion is helping people understand God’s Word and grow as followers of Jesus. I believe the Bible is God’s trustworthy Word and that it tells one unified story of His redemptive work through Jesus Christ. Whether I’m preaching, teaching, or meeting with someone over coffee, my desire is to help people see how God’s truth speaks into everyday life.
I am a Baptist by conviction and heritage, but I love serving a church family that brings together believers from many different backgrounds. One of the things I appreciate most about Haven is the way people can unite around the gospel, grow in God’s Word, and serve Christ together while bringing a variety of experiences and traditions to the table—and, thankfully, a variety of foods to the potluck table as well.
I was raised in the Philippines, where my parents served as missionaries. Growing up in that environment gave me a deep appreciation for God’s work around the world and for the importance of faithful local churches in every community.
My wife, Sunny, and I are blessed with a son, Caleb. While I serve as Haven’s pastor, our family is also grateful to call Haven home. It is a privilege to be part of a church family that is committed to experiencing Christ’s love, growing in His Word, and sharing His love with others.
Ernie Forrester
Care Pastor
I came to Haven Fellowship Church in November of 2015 to serve as pastor after a long and rewarding journey in ministry. By then, I had already spent over 30 years in Youth Ministry—25 of those years in full-time work—and 7 years as an Associate Pastor. After serving 10 years as pastor here at Haven, I transitioned into my current role as Care Pastor.
My heart for this specific ministry began early in my seminary career, when a summer internship required me to handle hospital visitations. From that moment on, I knew my calling was to walk alongside people through all of life’s seasons—offering a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and a steady reminder of God’s consistency and presence. Over nearly four decades of ministry, I’ve learned that the church is truly at its best when every individual feels seen, valued, and connected to a supportive community.
Having not grown up in the church myself, I missed some of the direct blessings that come from a regular body of caring believers. However, during my formative years, I witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of committed Christians who took the time to minister to my family. That experience left me with a deep, lifelong urge to be present for those in need. Over the years, the more I visited hospitals, retirement homes, and shut-ins, the more fulfilled I felt.
Whether I am talking with someone in my office about how to navigate difficult personal barriers, visiting someone in need, or simply grabbing lunch, my goal is always to break down walls and cultivate authentic relationships. Outside of ministry, I love exploring the outdoors, staying active in the community, and tending to my beehives.
On a personal note, I am blessed with a daughter, Aubrey, and a son, Will, who both live close by, as well as two grandchildren I love spending time with. Ultimately, I am incredibly grateful to be part of a congregation that loves people so deeply and dedicates its time to sharing the love of Jesus with those both inside and outside our fellowship.