Brian is the founder and lead pastor of Awaken Church in North Port, FL. He has experienced God’s Grace throughout his life and ministry, and is passionate about helping others discover God’s best for their lives. Brian loves communicating the truth of God’s word and does so every chance he gets. One of his favorite quotes is “Preach the gospel always, use words when necessary”! Brian’s desire is to see Southwest FL and specifically North Port, Awakened to God’s Grace.

When Brian is not speaking, writing or engaged in other ministry, he stays busy keeping up with his beautiful wife Jacqueline and four energetic kids, Selina, Wyatt, Lacie-Rae and Charis. Brian considers being a dad his highest calling, knowing that his kids are watching his every move and always checking to see where they fit. Brian enjoys fishing, especially with his kids! He is an avid Miami Hurricanes fan and loves old cars. To find out more about Brian check out the links below or stop by Awaken Church… He’d be glad to meet you!

Jacqueline, affectionately known as JZ, grew up in Birmingham, AL. If you happen to run in to her on an autumn Saturday, she will more than likely be wearing a crimson colored t-shirt and will probably input Roll Tide into your conversation at some point! Jacqueline loves doing ministry side-by-side with her husband Brian and keeps busy being the mommy to four little miracles, Selina, Wyatt, Lacie-Rae and Charis.

Jacqueline is very passionate about helping people discover their purpose and loves to encourage women over cups of coffee and through her blog. She always dreamed of being an Olympian in any and well every sport or activity that she ventured to do as a child and young adult. This sums up her personality… not afraid to reach for the stars and very sure that if you dream it, it is possible! Jacqueline stays busy as Awaken’s Experience Director. Although, you might still find her occasionally doing a handstand or attempting a spin on the ice, as those are some of her favorite things to do.

Alexandra Scarsella, affectionately known as Alex, serves as Awaken’s Worship Experience Director. Alex has served on our worship team since we launched in 2013. Alex brings a fresh vibe to our church’s worship experience and loves to worship! Alex, not only leads our worship team, but also oversees all creative elements for our services.

Alex has an amazing testimony and worships from a heart of freedom in Christ that personifies God’s love to our Awaken family. We are so thankful for the joy and excitement she brings every week.

Alex is mom to four amazing kids, Christiana, Adriana, Brayden and their foster child. She is passionate about her family, singing, dancing and all things Disney.

Christian Keller graduated from Southeastern University in the Spring of 2019. He received his bachelor’s degree in worship ministry. While a part of the SEU worship team, he developed a passion for seeing people engage the heart of God in authentic worship. He strives to build a strong worship culture that allows people to participate in community.

Christian has been focused on worship music since high school, where he started leading in his youth group. He has led worship in many settings…home church, missions trips, conferences, youth events, etc.He loves songwriting and is skilled at music production. It is his desire to create worship music for the local church.

Christian loves his family! He is very close to his twin brother Andrew. So if you ever get them confused, no worries, he’ll definitely respond to both names.

Christian loves to watch sports with friends. He will always cheer for the Seattle Seahawks! He is also the life of the party. He always wants to make people laugh, is quick witted and light hearted.

Pastor Ben joined our team in September 2017. He studied ministry leadership at Highlands College and earned a certificate in Christian Ministry. ) Ben has a beautiful wife, Arlin, and two amazing kids, Graham and Everly.

Pastor Ben was a part of Pastor Brian and Jacqueline’s youth group in Maryland and has been a part of the family ever since! He brings a fresh young energy and vibe to the team.

He’s passionate about people finding freedom in their lives, walking in forgiveness from their yesterdays and seeing the Kingdom of Heaven advanced in the city of North Port!

Pastor Ben loves anything to do with movies and the Baltimore Ravens. He’s quick with a joke and loves making people laugh!