Maple Grove Evangelical Free Church

Phillip Santillan 

Title:  Pastor of Worship Arts

Responsibilities:  Lead and oversee the Worship Arts Ministries

Hometown:  Newport News, VA

Family:  Wife, Leona Santillan; Children: Brennan (7/10/06) & Emily (11/4/07)

Education:  North Central University, Minneapolis, MN

Experience:  Worship Pastor, Rogers, MN / Associate Pastor, Orlando, FL

What brought me to MGEFC: The “cliff’s notes” version of the story of our journey can be simplified in this statement: Serving as a Pastor at MGEFC allows me to lead in the ministry of serving as a pastor – shepherding a local fellowship of believers and doing the work of an evangelist (Isaiah 40:11, Nehemiah 8:8, Ephesians 4:12, 1 Peter 5:2-3).

Vision for my ministry:  As the Pastor of Worship Arts, it is my responsibility to make sure that everything that happens at our weekly services - from ushers, to message, to music, and media - is God honoring, remarkable, and memorable. My vision for what could be and what should be at MGEFC is to see services that always create experiences that both the follower of Christ, and those who are far from Christ can truly say "the Lord was truly among us!" (1 Corinthians 14:25)

Favorite movie:  The Princess Bride

Favorite TV show:  So You Think You Can Dance

Favorite musical artist:  Bill Evans

Favorite book (other than the Bible):  The Feiner Points of Leadership by Michael Feiner

Favorite caffeinated beverage:  Coffee – black no sugar!

Favorite person:  My Wife

Favorite place to pray:  Where I am at

Favorite sports team:  Pittsburgh Steelers

Hobbies/interests:  Leadership, Reading, Soccer

Random fact about me:  I have no middle name

What fascinates me:  God’s mercy and grace fascinates me everyday

Best advice given to me:  Do the right thing, even if it means sacrificing your vision.

My life motto:  Love God – Love Others