CHURCH HISTORY
CHURCH HISTORY
NVF originated in the fall of 1998 as a Bible study led by Juan and Robin Jones in the home of Eddie and Tamara Coleman. As attendance grew, the Bible study moved to a larger home on Luckney Road. However, not long after this move, the Lord dealt with the Joneses and Colemans about officially forming a ministry. With the Lord’s guidance, the couples wrote the mission statement for the ministry and named it New Vision Fellowship.
In February of 1999, NVF held its first service as a church with Juan Jones as its Senior Pastor, and since that first service, God has showed His faithfulness by meeting every need of the church. From chairs being paid for by unexpected donors to Godly wisdom and advice, the consistent manifestation of God’s goodness inspired members to testify that, "God pays for what He orders."
Quickly, NVF outgrew its 524 Luckney location, and as a response, leaders began searching for a new location. Because of good stewardship, the ministry bought five acres of land further down Luckney Road with cash, and began preparations to build the new facility. Initially, NVF secured financing for the new church building through a local bank; however, God had other plans. One day in prayer, the Lord asked the leadership "Why not trust me?" Being obedient to the Lord’s supplication, the leaders turned down the financing and decided to break ground on the building with the funds that the church had on hand. Throughout the building’s construction, God delivered on his promise to provide the needs of His people, and with His help, NVF was built by the dedication and commitment of its members and others. As a testament to God’s faithfulness throughout the building process, the leaders made a sign that said “Built and Financed by God’s people,” and this motto still holds true to this day. Although construction was not fully complete, the first service in the new facility was held in July of 2004 in what is now the Fellowship Hall and through three phases, the facility was completed. The building was and is indeed a testimony to the goodness of God. NVF is a debt-free ministry and continues to declare that God pays for what He orders.
Currently, NVF has many opportunities to connect with other believers, grow in faith and serve the greater Rankin County community. In addition to the Sunday morning service, NVF has mid-week Life Care Groups (LCGs) where believers can fellowship, connect and grow together. People from all ages, religious backgrounds, and races are attracted to NVF. We are confident that as we keep the Lord first, our greatest days are ahead of us, and that this body of believers will be used as an instrument in God's hand to fulfill the great commission.
FOUNDING PASTORS &
APOSTOLIC OVERSEERS
Pastor Juan & Pastor Robin Jones
Juan and Robin Jones, originally from Columbus, OH, now call the Dallas-Fort Worth area home. Devoted to advancing God’s Kingdom, they have faithfully served in various ministry roles over the years. In 1999, they, along with Eddie and the late Tamara Coleman, founded New Vision Fellowship Church (NVF), where they continue to serve as Apostolic Overseers. Their love for God and extensive ministry experience fuels their passion to see individuals made whole—spiritually, physically, socially, financially, and emotionally.
Pastors Juan and Robin’s journey began when they met in a high school prayer group. Best friends since then, they have been married since 1987. They are proud parents of two adult daughters, two sons-in-law, and one beautiful granddaughter. Pastor Juan holds a degree in electrical engineering from The Ohio State University and a Master of Divinity degree from Oral Roberts University. Pastor Robin has a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a Master of Practical Theology degree from Oral Roberts University.
As loving parents, pastors, mentors, and counselors, the Joneses’ lives, and ministry reflect an unwavering dedication to God and His people. Pastors Juan and Robin remain wholeheartedly committed to the growth, mission, and vision of NVF.
Once in a lifetime, we are so blessed to meet
A person so genuine, loving, and sweet.
Our church was blessed to have such a one,
Tamara Coleman, a woman who could be compared to none.
The love she gave to each of us we never shall forget,
She always showed love and kindness to everyone she met.
She was fun to be with, always smiling and brightening everyone’s day.
Godly care, and when there was a need, she always made a way.
Her ear was always open, to listen closely from the start.
For one thing she always did, was speak to you from her heart.
She loved her church and her church loved her more.
Tamara was an amazing saint and so easy to adore.
She stayed connected and in touch with people near and far.
She had a way of making you feel like you were a superstar.
She was sensitive, loving, and always willing to share.
Kind, gentle, and one who genuinely cared.
She’d talk to children, adults, and the elderly too.
And if you talked to her long enough, she’d find something for you to do.
It’s impossible to fully express the depth of her beautiful spirit,
Tamara was one-in-a-million and when listening to her you’d certainly hear it.
It’s hard to imagine life without her in the years to come.
The thought of us not seeing her leaves us somewhat numb,
Yet, what comforts us most of all is knowing where she is
Because of Jesus’ sacrifice Tamara Coleman yet lives.
Though she’s no longer with us here on earth, she is still alive and bright,
In God’s glorious presence she worships freely, forever in His sight.
Tamara left this life for a better one with no sorrow, sadness, or pain. We shall always cherish her precious memory, until we all see her once again.
In Loving Memory, From The NVF Church Family