We value a multiplicity of leaders. We are Elder-led and body-affirmed. 

Ben Williams first came to New Horizons in 2008 after moving to Starkville to attend Mississippi State University and quickly found a home here. He has served as an elder for several years and loves serving the fellowship. Ever since joining the church, he has appreciated how deeply New Horizons loves the Word of God and remains committed to unity within the body of Christ—both in their own congregation and the surrounding community.

Donald Buckner has served as an Elder at NHCF since 2008, going back to the "Burger King days." With over 30 years in pastoral ministry and a heart for missions in South and Central America, he deeply values the rich fellowship of our Kingdom Family and worshiping in the Presence of the Lord. He and his wife, Mary Bob, have been faithfully married for over 60 years.

Jake Shivley was part of the original founding of New Horizons Christian Fellowship while he was in college and has been here ever since. He now serves as an elder and worship pastor, leading New Horizons Worship—a songwriting and worship collective born out of the local church that carries Spirit-led worship into whatever they do and wherever they go. Jake is married to Cori and has 4 daughters. 

Johnny Buckner serves as Senior Pastor and Elder of New Horizons Christian Fellowship in his hometown of Starkville, Mississippi. A global missions leader, teacher, and musician, Johnny has ministered in over 50 countries, sharing the love of God and advancing His Kingdom among the least reached. He and his wife Debbie (married for 35+ years) have raised six children across four continents and are spiritual parents to many around the world and now have 15 grandchildren.

Timothy Holifield serves as an Elder at New Horizons Christian Fellowship, where he first became connected during his college years. He works at Aurora in Starkville, Mississippi, and is passionate about building, finding creative solutions, teaching others, and serving in global missions. Timothy is married to Lauren, and they are blessed with five wonderful children.

Now retired from the career that originally brought him to Mississippi 20 years ago, Tim Boden tells people that NHCF is what keeps him here in Starkville. He says, “This congregation is more than my community and family; it truly embodies what I've always looked for in a church: It is a faithful steward of first-century Christianity that transcends theologies, denominations, and other divisions in the Body of Christ.”

Josiah is an Elder and the Family Life Pastor at NHCF. He brings a diverse background that includes nearly 20 years of military service, 15 years in ministry, and certification as a Prepare/Enrich marriage facilitator. He is passionate about the Kingdom of God, strengthening families, and seeing the Body of Christ equipped to live according to its calling and walk in true freedom through Christ.

Brent Wilemon serves as an Elder at New Horizons Christian Fellowship, where he was drawn through a miraculous encounter during his college years. He works with the Starkville Fire Department and lives in Starkville with his wife, Mary Cameron, and their three wonderful children. Brent deeply values the Kingdom of God and loves seeking the treasures of Scripture alongside the Holy Spirit. He and MC got married at NHCF in our current building!