Misha Shakurov
Senior Pastor
Misha and his family joined New Life Church in 2023 after moving from Kazakhstan. He and his wife, Oxana, have been married since 1994 and have dedicated over 25 years to ministry as church pastors and missionaries. Together, they have four children and two grandchildren. Misha is passionate about his relationship with Jesus and is deeply committed to leading others to Christ.
Erica Solis
Children's Director
Erica serves as our Children’s Director at New Life and has a deep passion for leading kids into a growing knowledge of Christ. She has seen firsthand in her own family how planting seeds of faith in children can draw an entire household closer to God. Erica’s husband, Jesse, serves on the worship team, and together they are raising three beautiful kids. She loves creating a safe and fun space where children can discover how much Jesus loves them.
Jacob O'Dell
Youth Pastor
Jacob O'Dell joined the New Life Church family in June 2026 and serves as the Youth Pastor. He has over three years of experience serving students, including a year and a half in a church residency where he was equipped for ministry. Jacob is passionate about helping students know Jesus personally, grow in their faith, and live out the Gospel every day. His heart is to reach those who are far from Christ and raise up disciples who don't just talk about their faith but live it—and then go make more disciples. Jacob and his wife Madi were married in June 2026 and are grateful to call New Life Church home. Together, they love investing in the next generation and are excited to see how God will work in the lives of students and families.
Tonya Martin
Administrative assistant
Every church needs a “chaos coordinator,” and that’s exactly what Tonya is for New Life! She keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes with a smile and a sense of humor. When she’s not organizing church life, she’s a busy mom to three amazing kids and wife to her husband, Rusty, a police sergeant who also serves on our church security team. We’re grateful for the heart and energy she brings to our team every day!
Tima Shakurov
Media Director and Worship Associate
Tima wears a lot of creative hats at New Life. He handles videos, graphics, and social media to keep our church connected and sharing the message of Jesus throughout the week. On Sundays, you may also see him on stage playing bass as part of the worship team. We like to call him our “digital storyteller” because he loves using technology to help people encounter Jesus in fresh ways.
Lori Wood
Connections Team Lead
Lori has been a faithful and vital part of New Life Church, serving with a heart full of joy and dedication. As our Connections Team Lead, she welcomes every person with a warm smile and open arms, helping to create the friendly, Christ-centered atmosphere that defines our church. Lori also plays an active role in our youth and young adult ministry, offering her time and energy to invest in the next generation. Whether she’s helping with administrative tasks or stepping in wherever needed, Lori’s commitment and servant-hearted spirit make a lasting impact. We are so grateful for her faithful presence and leadership in our church family!
Leadership at New Life
At New Life, we follow the New Testament model of church leadership. Our church is led by shepherds (also called elders), who serve as husband-and-wife teams. Together, these couples provide spiritual guidance, care, and oversight for the church family.
Scripture calls shepherds to watch over the flock, lead with humility, and set an example in faith (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2-3; Titus 1:5-9). Serving as couples allows them to walk alongside individuals and families with wisdom, prayer, and encouragement, always pointing people to Jesus, the Good Shepherd (John 10:11).
Misha and Oxana
Shepherding couple
Misha and Oxana serve as one of New Life Church’s dedicated shepherding couples, offering spiritual guidance, support, and care to our church family. Since joining us in 2023 after moving from Kazakhstan, they have stepped into key leadership roles with humility and purpose. Misha serves as our Senior Pastor, leading with bold vision and a deep passion for the gospel. Oxana leads one of our Ladies Life Groups and is actively involved in our women’s ministry, encouraging and equipping others in their walk with Christ. Their heart for ministry and commitment to the body of Christ are a true gift to New Life Church.
Thomas and Susan
Shepherding Couple
Thomas and Susan have faithfully served at New Life Church for many years. As one of our shepherding couples, they act in the role of elders, watching over the church with wisdom, care, and prayer. Their dedication to the spiritual growth and well-being of our congregation is unwavering. From counseling and mentoring to behind-the-scenes support, they invest countless hours serving and strengthening our church family. We are incredibly grateful for their faithful leadership, humble hearts, and Christ-centered service.
Bud and Marva
Shepherding couple
Bud and Marva have been devoted members of New Life Church for many years, serving faithfully as one of our shepherding couples. In addition to their spiritual leadership, they are both an active part of our worship team, using their gifts to help lead our congregation into the presence of God. Bud is also our go-to for just about anything that needs fixing; his hands-on support keeps the church running smoothly, often behind the scenes. Whether it’s through prayer, music, or maintenance, Bud and Marva serve with joyful hearts and a deep love for the church. We are so thankful for their steady presence and selfless dedication.
Rusty and Tonya Martin
Shepherding couple
Rusty and Tonya Martin have been married for 25 years and have three children: Taylor, Mason, and Sadie. Their family is deeply involved in serving their community, with careers in law enforcement, school leadership, and volunteer work. Rusty has served with the Odessa Police Department for over 19 years, while Tonya’s greatest accomplishment is being a dedicated mother. Their faith in Christ has been the foundation of their family, helping them through difficult seasons, personal losses, health struggles, and the challenges of law enforcement. Since joining New Life Church in 2023, the Martin family has joyfully served in various roles and looks forward to continuing to grow in faith and community together.
Larry and Deborah Adams
Shepherding couple
Larry and Deborah Adams are lifelong Odessa residents who have been married for nearly 42 years and have built their lives and careers in the community. They have two children, Kris and Elizabeth, four grandchildren, and are blessed that their entire family lives locally and attends New Life Church. Both have dedicated many years to their careers while enjoying hobbies and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Since joining New Life, they have actively served in various ministries, including Kingdom Kids, Youth Group, greeting, the coffee bar, Women’s Ministry, and the Security Team. They love being part of the New Life family and look forward to continuing to serve, grow in their faith, and build relationships within the church.
