AWAKEN CHURCH STAFF

OUR STAFF

JOSH BENNETT

Lead Pastor

Pastor Josh was born in Tifton, and grew up in Homerville. He graduated from Welch college in 2006 and has been in ministry for the last 18 years. In 2010, Pastor Josh and his family moved to Tucson, AZ to plant The Springs Church along side some great friends. In 2017, Pastor Josh joined the staff of Awaken Church and moved his family to Tifton with a heart for showing the love of Christ and planting a church that reaches people far from God!

SHANE SUGGS

Executive Pastor

Prior to coming to Awaken, Shane has served as a youth pastor, pastor, and church planter in Georgia and Alabama, serving over 13 years in ministry. Shane and Jamie have been married over 20 years and have two daughters, Grace (18) and Eden (16).

 

As Executive Pastor, Shane serves on staff at Awaken in the areas of leadership development, church operations, and supporting the Lead Pastor in the accomplishment of the church’s mission to live the vision of Awaken.

 

Shane is an avid sports fan, with Football and Soccer being his favorites and is a lifelong Braves fan (even through the rotten years)!

Austin Long

Worship Pastor

Austin Long is the worship pastor at Awaken, a vibrant and dynamic congregation, Austin has a passion for connecting people with worship music and leading the worship team.

Before joining the Awaken community, Austin served as the worship pastor at Mission Church and Calvary Fellowship. It was during these formative years that Austin honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the power of worship to connect individuals with their spirituality.

When he is not leading worship, Austin cherishes his time with his beloved family. He and his wife Gabby have 2 children. Levi and Lilah are fun, exciting kids! 

Beyond his musical pursuits, Austin embraces the great outdoors and has a passion for hunting. Finding solace in nature, he appreciates the beauty of God's creation and the tranquility it brings. Whether he is stalking game or simply enjoying the serenity of the wilderness, Austin finds renewal and inspiration in these moments.

ALAN DANIEL

Volunteer Coordinator

Alan and his family have been a part of Awaken Church since it launched in 2018. Alan serves in a high capacity volunteer role as the Volunteer Coordinator at Awaken Church.

ASHLEY BENNETT

Children's Ministry Director

Ashley, pastor Josh’s wife, serves as our children ministry director.