John Cofer
Pastor
Bro. John has served the Lord at Liberty for more than 30 years and is married to his beautiful wife, Brenda. They have four children: Elisabeth, married to Jeremy Lee, with two sons; Jennifer; Paul, married to Christy with a daughter and son; and Stephen, married to Amber with a son. He has pastored churches in Georgia and Mississippi. He has degrees from Georgia Tech (B.C.E.), Tennessee Temple Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div.,ThM), and Dallas Theological Seminary (D.Min.). John became a Christ-follower at the age of 20 while attending college. As a shepherd, he looks forward to discovering God’s plan for each member of Liberty as well as our purpose in advancing the Kingdom of God in the 21st century.
Cassidy Holland
Director of Children’s Ministry
Cassidy grew up the middle child of two brothers in a pastor’s home and never remembers a time she wasn’t in church. From her childhood, she has always had a special love for kids as a sitter, an intern at a family-based community for displaced children in Honduras, an ASL interpreter at the Mississippi School for the Deaf, and an active servant leader in a preschool ministry. In all of those experiences, Cassidy’s desire is to see the next generation grow in their love for the Lord. Her favorite role is “Aunt Sass” to her two-year-old nephew. She has two dogs, Nala and Atlas, and a cat named Weasley. She loves reading, cooking, hiking and camping, but while at home, relaxing on her back porch with a cup of hot tea.
Brennon Gatewood
Associate Pastor
Brennon is originally from Franklinton, Louisiana, and has faithfully served in ministry for more than a decade. During that time, he has ministered in churches across Louisiana, New Jersey, and Georgia, serving in a variety of leadership roles. He has a heart for making disciples through intentional relationships and helping people grow into mature followers of Christ. Brennon and his wife, Annabelle, are the proud parents of four children: Reuben, Adoniram (“Addy”), Mary Rose, and Teddy. Together, they are passionate about serving the local church, investing in families, and pointing people to Jesus through faithful ministry.
Jared Vardaman
Pastor of Worship and Students
Jared is from Morton, MS, and has been leading worship since he was 14 years old. He attended Mississippi College and is continuing his studies at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. As a child, he traveled regionally with his family group, The Vardamans, instilling a love of gospel music and the classic hymns. Jared has served in a variety of ministries and travelled nationally as a music evangelist. In 2022, he met the love of his life, Mary Kate, and they were married in January of 2024. His desire as a worship leader is to bring together all styles of Christian music to lead others in true, genuine worship.