Lead Pastor

Pastor Lewis had the privilege of joining Sarasota Baptist Church as Lead Pastor in September of 2022. Today, he continues to shepherd the church as we move forward as SALT Church, building on the strong foundation God has established through the years. Michael is married to Liliana, a native of Mexico City, and together they have three daughters—Charity, Faith, and Hope—and three grandchildren. He is a spiritual shepherd who desires to make disciples who love God, love people, and lead others to do the same.

Michael grew up in Savannah, GA; He is a graduate of Columbia International University with a Bible degree and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with Master of Divinity degree. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from Liberty University in 2005. He began serving churches as pastor at the age of 21, and has served churches in Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, and Texas. For 3 years, he was instrumental in providing a continuum of care for 46,000 pastors and their families through the North American Mission Board as he served as the Executive Director of Pastoral Care and Development.

Michael and Liliana are lead-trainers for Galatians 6:6 retreats for ministry couples through the Great Commandment Network, and he mentors churches/associations through the CALLED2LOVE Acts 2 Journey cohort process. Even as a local church pastor, he continues to serve into a continuum of care for ministry leaders both locally and nationally.

Joshua and his family joined the SALT Church staff family in Summer of 2024. Before joining the SALT Church family, Josh served as a worship pastor in Alabama and has years of ministry experience, as well as a heart for worship and a passion for leading others in praise. Josh and his wife Deanna are Sarasota natives, and together with their daughter, Elzie, they enjoy spending family time on the water. In addition to leading worship, Josh is also a talented songwriter, creating music that inspires and uplifts the congregation.

Mike and his family came to SALT Church in January 2024. He and his wife, Val, have been married for 20 years and have 4 children: Dami, Joslyn, Devoni, and Finley. Mike has more than 20  years of ministry experience - serving as a student pastor in 2 churches, and as a church planter of 2 churches in Nebraska. Mike's heart is to make disciples of students - leading them to know Jesus and be bold in their faith - and having fun doing so. Mike also enjoys engaging in the local schools, through speaking at local FCA meetings, hosting 5th quarter post game events, and more.
The McLaughlins enjoy spending quality time together at sporting events, and trying out new restaurants together.