Our Story & Vision
Midway Road Baptist Church was established in August 1954 as White City Baptist Chapel under the leadership of our first pastor, Truett Smith. Sponsored by First Baptist Church and Parkview Baptist Church of Fort Pierce, our early congregation met in a temporary spot known as "Richard’s Dine and Dance" before purchasing property at Midway Road and Sunrise Blvd. By February 1955, we held our first services on the new grounds in a rented tent, worshipping there until our first permanent building was completed that June.
Our heart for the community drove rapid expansion. We added educational space in 1957 and, in 1960, launched a mission that eventually grew into Port St. Lucie First Baptist Church. As the neighborhood developed, our identity evolved, leading to a name change in 1969 to Sunrise Blvd Baptist Church.
Today, we are experiencing a season of renewed growth and purpose under the leadership of Pastor Troy Ingersoll. While we honor our rich history, we are moving forward with fresh energy and a clear vision to deepen our spiritual walk and actively serve our neighbors. Through expanded outreach and a commitment to unity, Midway Road Baptist Church remains a welcoming environment where individuals and families can grow in their walk with God.
Our Leadership
Troy Ingersoll
Pastor
Florida State University—Bachelor’s in Criminology | New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary — Masters of Christian Education
I'm honored to share a little about my journey and our excitement about joining the family at Midway Road Baptist Church.
I began my ministry as an Associate Pastor / Minister to Students in May 1996, the same year I married my wonderful wife, Jennifer Ingersoll. God has blessed us with two grown children, Seth (with his wife Savannah) and Ava. Having the opportunity to serve as a Youth Pastor for 24 years was truly a blessing and an honor.
I never thought God would open the doors for me to minister again, but I've learned never to put limits or restrictions on Him. His plans are not always what we expect!
Jenn and I are excited for the opportunity to share our life with Midway Road Baptist Church. Our unique traditional church, with its staples, (Choir, Sunday School, Mission Projects, Monthly Potluck Lunches and Socials) makes us who we are—a family!
Our family is always expanding! If you are searching for a church that you want to call family, we warmly invite you to join us at 11:00 A.M. on Sundays. We will be waiting for you.
God Bless!
— Troy
James Kepler
Music Minister
James Kepler serves as the Minister of Music at Midway Road Baptist Church, where he leads the congregation in Christ-centered, heartfelt worship. With years of experience in church music, he guides choirs, and musicians in worship that support meaningful, biblically grounded worship. James is married to Debra Kepler, and they have two children, Tracy and Crystal.
At Midway Road Baptist Church, James oversees all aspects of the music ministry, including weekly worship services, seasonal programs, and special events. His goal is to create worship experiences that point people to the gospel and strengthen the unity of the church family. He counts it a blessing to use his musical gifts to serve the Lord and the people of Midway Road Baptist Church.
What We Believe:
ABOUT GOD.
We believe in one God who eternally exists as three persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). God alone is the Creator, Redeemer, and Ruler of the universe. Jesus is the Son of God. He became human to reveal God to us and become the world's Savior. The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son and lives within all true Christians.
ABOUT SALVATION.
We believe salvation is offered freely to all who will accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Salvation is a work of God’s grace, whereby sinners become forgiven children of God by trusting and following Jesus.
ABOUT THE CHURCH.
We believe the Church to be the body of Christ, which includes all who have trusted in Jesus throughout all ages. The church exists to glorify God by loving Him and making Him known to others.
ABOUT THE LORD’S SUPPER.
We believe the Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience. Receiving the bread and cup helps Christians recall, celebrate, and give thanks for Jesus’ death. We observe the Lord’s Supper regularly throughout the year.
ABOUT THE SCRIPTURES.
We believe the Holy Bible was written by men and divinely inspired. It is the record of God’s revelation of Himself to man. The Bible is a perfect treasure of divine instruction and the supreme standard for judging all human conduct.
ABOUT MAN.
We believe man was created in God's image as the crowning work of creation. Man was originally created without sin, but he freely chose to disobey God, thereby bringing sin upon the entire human race. Only the grace of God can restore fellowship with God.
ABOUT BAPTISM.
We believe Christian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This symbolizes a believer’s faith in the risen Savior and their death to sin. We believe baptism should follow a person’s commitment to trust and follow Jesus.