Meet Our Team

Michael Jackson

Interim Pastor

 Michael (MJ) is a Florida boy at heart. He grew up there, barefoot as much as possible, going to the beach and playing most sports. While attending college at the University of Central Florida, he met his amazing-beyond-words wife, Martha, while involved with Campus Crusade for Christ, and they married in 2005. God brought them to Raleigh, North Carolina in 2008 where their four kids were born: Amadeus and Iliyana (born 2009), Katriel (born 2010), and Atalya (born 2012). Through Michael's work, they relocated to the Charlotte area in 2014 and now call Gaston County home. 
Michael graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from UCF and spent a decade and a half in the business world, most of that time at State Employees’ Credit Union. MJ’s greatest passion is knowing Jesus and making him known, and for most of his life he has had a desire to serve the church in full-time ministry. Michael earned a certificate in Biblical Studies and Theology from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.  In his free time, he enjoys hiking with his family, playing soccer, and reading.

Tiffany Pursley

Student Ministry

Originally from Western North Carolina, Tiffany enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors with her husband Ben, son Connor, and dog Chloe. Tiffany came to Hickory Grove in 2013 with a passion for discipleship and encouraging authentic relationships.

Beth Lawing

Administrative Assistant

Beth has been a valuable part of the Hickory Grove team since February of 2013. Beth and her husband Rodney have four children (Jennifer, Matthew, Zachary, Rachel) and four grandchildren (Evan, Nathan, Collette, Tabitha). Beth loves spending time with her family (especially the grandchildren :) ) and loves music as she comes from a singing family.