By Michelle Vasquez | Photography by David Teran
Pastor Ed’s journey is deeply rooted in his unique upbringing—an experience that shaped his worldview and calling to serve others. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, to two deaf parents, Ed was thrust into the role of being their voice and ears, navigating a world where communication went beyond words. “I grew up in a deaf home… it was a tremendous life shaper in my life”, says Pastor Ed.
As a child, Ed moved to Orlando, Florida. His neighborhood became another formative influence as a government-subsidized housing project for people with varying disabilities. Reflecting on this period, Ed shares, “It’s probably one of the greatest life experiences to be surrounded by people who were not people with disabilities, but people with different abilities.” His neighbors included individuals with paraplegia and individuals who were blind or deaf, all of whom adapted in inspiring ways to their unique challenges.
Ed recalls, “Superheroes surrounded me, and that taught me to see the power in people, even when the world might overlook them.” These experiences cultivated a deep empathy and understanding in him, shaping his desire to uplift those often marginalized by society.
These early life experiences became the foundation for Ed’s philosophy on ministry and leadership. When he faced his struggles—like failing his SATs and being told he wasn’t “college material”—he held onto the resilience he had seen in others. A chance opportunity to play basketball took him to Clearwater Christian College, where he felt a calling to serve God through ministry. “Sometimes, to be of great impact to other people, you have to go through some of the things that they faced,” Ed says. “Nobody signs up for hardship… but God allows us to go through those moments so that the comfort we receive can be given to others who are going through the same things.”
In 2016, Ed became the lead pastor of Community Bible Church (CBC) in San Antonio, a city he has grown to love deeply. “I’m married into an amazing family with my wife Stephanie, and my four incredible kids, London, Lola, Liv, and Lawson, but the people of San Antonio have become my family,” he says. He sees CBC as a church and a community where people can find belonging, regardless of background or ability. “CBC is not a perfect church; it’s filled with imperfect people just like me,” he shares. “We have a campus on the South Side, one further north near Bulverde, and our main campus, but no matter where, it’s about creating a space where everyone is welcome.”
Pastor Ed’s work at CBC centers around three principles: revival, discipleship, and evangelism. He explains that “revival is a spiritual awakening, an encounter with God that impacts every aspect of life. It’s not just a one-hour experience on Sundays; it permeates everything.” Discipleship, as he describes it, is about living life alongside others by modeling values and behaviors that others can emulate. Evangelism, for him, is simply “delivering real hope”—sharing the joy and peace that come from a relationship with Jesus.
Ed’s commitment to fostering a spirit of revival and connection extends to every congregation member, from young children to seniors. His passion for youth ministry is deeply influenced by his experiences as a young man searching for purpose. “Who said a third grader couldn’t be a bright light on their campus?” he asks. He believes that every person, regardless of age or circumstance, has the potential to be a leader and a positive influence.
At CBC, he seeks to create an environment where all people can experience a spiritual awakening, find community, and understand their potential to make a difference. Pastor Ed is genuinely the guy to know for those seeking hope, understanding, and a more profound sense of belonging through spirituality.
One Response
I have the privilege of being a member of CBC and I can tell you, Pastor Ed is the real deal. He is charismatic without being overpowering and you can see God’s light shine in him through his smile and actions. I always feel like he is speaking “just to me” when he preaches and I feel the tug to walk down to the stage and ask for forgiveness every time I am there. He has had one of the most influential impacts on his followers and CBC is so proud to call him “ours.”