Joel Kersey, a former Central Valley resident and current regional representative for the National Association of Evangelicals, will be the speaker for the 2025 Believers Church Lecture Series, October 8-9.
Kersey is passionate about advocating for just and compassionate immigration reform, motivated by the belief that both our nation and immigrant communities can thrive together. He will give several presentations under the overarching title “Citizens and Strangers: A Christian Vision for Immigration Reform.” This event is hosted by Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary, part of Fresno Pacific University, and will take place on the main FPU campus at 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno, CA.
- Wednesday, October 8
- Chapel: “It’s Okay to Talk to Strangers” (Philippians 3:20-21)
- Time: 10:50 a.m.
- Location: Special Events Center
- Free event — no ticket required
- Pastor’s Luncheon: “Failed Immigration Systems and the Suffering of the American Church”
- Time: 12:30 p.m.
- Location: BC Lounge
- By invitation only
- Chapel: “It’s Okay to Talk to Strangers” (Philippians 3:20-21)
- Thursday, October 9
- Community Presentation and Panel Discussion: “Justice and Compassion in Immigration Reform” (Micah 6:8)
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Location: BC Lounge
- Free event — no ticket required
- Community Presentation and Panel Discussion: “Justice and Compassion in Immigration Reform” (Micah 6:8)
Joel Kersey
Joel Kersey is the midsouth regional representative for the National Association of Evangelicals and lives near Tulsa, Oklahoma. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Multnomah Biblical Seminary in Portland, Oregon. From 2011 to 2021, Kersey served in Reedley as chaplain and teacher at Immanuel Schools and later as student ministries pastor at Reedley MB Church.
In his current role, Kersey mobilizes Christian leaders to engage constructively in public policy, advocating for approaches that honor God and promote the well-being of our nation. He regularly organizes meetings with elected officials, speaks at events and travels to Washington, D.C., to represent evangelical voices on Capitol Hill. He is especially passionate about advocating for just and compassionate immigration reform, believing that both our nation and immigrant communities can thrive together.
Joel and his wife, Amber, have been married 18 years. They have one daughter, Chloe. The family attends Life Fellowship Church and are actively engaged in serving their community.