Our Pastors

Brian and Heather Farley were married in 1992 at the age of 18. They come from generations of Christians and pastors. They met in church, fell in love with Jesus and each other, and now have two grown sons, Aaron (Hannah) and Andrew. The Farleys have served in ministry their entire adult lives, including seven years as missionaries to New York City, where they evangelized another world religion, cared for the homeless, and started house churches. They have pastored in churches of all sizes. Brian has baptized 400+ new believers.

Brian holds a doctorate of ministry in Church Planting and Revitalization, M.Div., and BA in Pastoral Ministry. Brian studied at Trinity Theological Seminary and Lee University. He aims to challenge men to become strong but compassionate Christian leaders.

Heather is a worship leader. In 2009, she lost over 100 pounds without surgery and became a certified personal trainer. Heather has an AS in Christan Ministry. Brian and Heather are both published authors and ordained ministers. 

Military: Brian is an honorably discharged US Air Force veteran (peacetime). All service members are welcomed, respected, and honored at Tidewater Church (TC).

Healing Ministry: in the year 2000, the Farley's youngest son, who was a toddler, was diagnosed with a very rare, terminal cancer, but the Lord chose to heal their son miraculously! From this, the Lord birthed a healing ministry, and the Farleys have proclaimed God's goodness and mercy to thousands of people in hundreds of churches- sometimes accompanied by physical healing. 

Grace: The Farleys desire that you attend TC and find forgiveness, love, and mercy. The Lord has been very gracious to Brian and Heather. They hope you experience His grace through their ministry- marked by gratitude, grace, and dependence on the Holy Spirit!

In 2023, the Farleys visited an old church building with a group that had dwindled to 12 people with limited funds. They felt moved to start a new church in Portsmouth—moving here six months later, in 2024. The Farleys believe that Portsmouth will be blessed, crime rates will decrease, and people will find hope in Jesus. Jesus transforms cities! 

We look forward to God's work and the new thing He will do! Is God calling you to be a part of it? Right now, we need singers, musicians, teachers, youth pastors, associate pastors, and those willing to help and learn in many capacities. We hope to meet you this week!