Staff

Michael Pogue, Senior Pastor

mpogue@midwaybc.com

Michael was called to be the senior pastor at Midway in March of 2024. Michael grew up in Meridian. He was baptized and surrendered to the ministry at Midway Baptist Church. After surrendering to the Ministry Michael completed his Masters of Divinity Degree at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

Michael has pastored churches in Mississippi and Louisiana.When asked what he loves to do Michael said, “I love to spend time with my family, I love preaching the gospel and pastoring my church, and I love traveling to different countries to share the gospel. My wife April is from East Asia. I met her when I was on a mission trip. She was led to Christ by Missionaries. The Lord has placed a deep burden on both of our hearts for reaching people of other nations for Christ.”Michael and April have two boys: Gabriel and Immanuel.

Michael Oates, Associate Pastor and Minister of Music

michael@midwaybc.com

Bro. Michael “Big O” Oates and his family have been at Midway since March of 2020. He married his wife Lisa in 2003, and together they have three children: Scott, Jonathan, and Abigail. Michael gave his life to Christ at the age of 20, and surrendered to the call of ministry soon thereafter. He has served in various ministry positions throughout the US over the past 26 years including Louisiana, Arizona, North Carolina, and Mississippi. Earning his Bachelors degree in Christian Ministry from Leavell College in 2007, Michael has served in various capacities, such as, Music, Education, Senior Adults and Prison Chaplaincy. He spends most of his off time enjoying time with his family. His other interests include: fishing, football, and thrifting.

Lee Higginbotham, Youth Pastor and Educational Director

lee@midwaybc.com

While Lee has been a member of Midway Baptist Church since 2010, it was not until October 15th, 2018 that he was called to be the Youth Pastor and Education Director here at Midway. Lee grew up in Center Hill community. Lee surrendered to the ministry in early 2018. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry and is currently pursuing his Masters at NOBTS.

When asked what he loves to do in his free time, Lee said, “While it may not look like it, I love to run. I often spend time listening to Bible studies while running. I enjoy attending our students’ extra-curricular activities. That is where I get to know them more. Another hobby of mine is growing super hot peppers like ghost peppers. During the fall, I enjoy calling West Lauderdale Football games on the radio. Most important, I love to spend time with my wife (Brandi) and my (not so young anymore) kids (Laighton and Bryson).”