Tony grew up in the steel mill town of Gary, Indiana. From the time he was a child until he became a young adult, Tony made weekly pilgrimages to Sunday morning church service. It was during this time that the “seeds” of the Gospel of Jesus Christ were planted in his heart. Though these “seeds” were planted, it would be several years before they'd begin to take root and mature.
In high school, Tony excelled both academically and athletically. After graduation, he was offered an academic scholarship to Indiana State University and a baseball scholarship to Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Because he wanted to be near his high school sweetheart, Tony chose the academic scholarship to Indiana State. His goal was to earn a degree in electronics. Although Tony made plans for adulthood, the Lord had something else in mind. Through a series of events, Tony decided to forfeit his scholarship to join the United States Marine Corps. After completing boot camp, Tony and his high school sweetheart Jenise exchanged wedding vows.
Three months after getting married, Tony received orders to Okinawa, Japan to serve a one year, unaccompanied tour. Almost immediately, the Lord would radically change his life. After being in Japan three days, a buddy invited Tony to church. At that church service, Tony committed his life to Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.
After completing his tour in Japan, Tony was stationed at Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California. In time, Tony would be led to Calvary Chapel of Vista. After observing Tony’s faithfulness and desire to teach God's Word, Pastor Brian Broderson gave him the opportunity to join the staff of CC Vista. Tony would gain experience working with the College & Career Group, in the Children’s Ministry and as the High School Pastor
After serving at CC Vista for three years, Tony’s heart began to stir in the area of pastoring a church. But where would the church be? After considering various possibilities, Tony accepted an invitation to visit the state of Virginia. Within four months of his initial visit, Tony, Jenise and their three children, Erin, Tony Jr. & Eric would relocate to start Calvary Chapel of Newport News.
Tony’s heart’s desire has been to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. He longs to see people have a fruitful walk with the Lord. It's not simply about knowing about Jesus, but people having a committed relationship with Him. The Lord has done a tremendous work in this fellowship. Tony continues to stress the importance of diving into the Word and prayer, all for the purpose of knowing Jesus better today than you did yesterday!