Faithful in Service. Rooted in Scripture. Called to Lead.
A lifelong journey of serving God’s people through worship, preaching, pastoral care, and community — grounded in faith and guided by grace.
Jeff Chitwood — Committed to Communicating the Word of God
For more than four decades, Jeff has devoted his life to communicating the Word of God with clarity, compassion, and conviction. Through preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and community involvement, he seeks to help people know Christ more deeply and follow Him more faithfully in everyday life.
Current Ministry
Jeff currently serves as the Lead Minister at Anchor Christian Church in Bonita Springs, Florida. He has served in that role since May, 2010. Over the years, he has faithfully preached, taught, and shepherded the congregation through seasons of change, growth, and renewal. One of the greatest blessings of his ministry has been the encouragement and support expressed by people in response to the weekly messages from God’s Word.
Areas of Ministry
Preaching Ministry
Jeff has served as a Preaching Minister in two different congregations, spanning more than 31 years of pulpit ministry. After 17 fruitful years in Youth Ministry, he transitioned into Preaching Ministry. Both ministry experiences have deepened his understanding of people’s needs and enriched his ability to communicate God’s truth with wisdom and grace.
Fire Chaplaincy
In 2011, Jeff began serving as the Volunteer Chaplain for the Bonita Springs Fire Department. This ongoing ‘ministry of presence’ allows him to care for the firefighter family by simply being there in times of need, offering prayer, support, and the hope of Christ in moments of crisis.
Youth Ministry
Jeff’s first Youth Ministry began as a weekend role and became a full-time position after he graduated from college. In 1982, he moved to a new congregation and continued serving as a full-time Youth Minister for the next 13 years. His enduring heart for young people continues today, as he remains actively involved with the youth program at the church he serves.
Consulting & Coaching
In addition to his local church ministry, Jeff is available to consult with churches and Christian organizations on ministry development, strategic planning, and spiritual leadership. Drawing from decades of experience in both youth and preaching ministries, he helps leaders clarify vision, strengthen their teams, and align ministry efforts with biblical priorities.
Educational Background
Education is both a gift and a responsibility, shaping not only the mind but also the heart and spirit for effective ministry in God’s kingdom. Through formal study, ongoing training, and intentional spiritual formation, a strong foundation has been built to serve God’s people with wisdom, clarity, and faithfulness.
Academic Degrees & Credentials
– Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Preaching Ministry
– Master of Divinity Degree ( M. Div.) in New Testament Theology
– Ordination and ministerial credentials in good standing with the Independent Christian Church
Ongoing Learning & Spiritual Formation
– Regular participation in pastoral conferences, ministry workshops, and continuing education seminars
– Active engagement in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, worship, and personal Bible study
– Participation in mentoring relationships, spiritual direction, and peer accountability groups
– Involvement in community outreach, cross-cultural ministry, and practical service opportunities
This ongoing pursuit of learning and spiritual growth flows directly into preaching, teaching, and shepherding, helping to ensure that ministry remains grounded in God’s Word, responsive to the needs of God’s people, and aligned with the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Let’s Connect
To invite Jeff to preach, consult with your church or organization, or learn more about his ministry and resources, reach out using the options below.
Pastor JC 