Lance Rhoades is a visionary leader and the founder of Tree of Life Open Bible Church, where his steadfast faith and strategic insights have driven remarkable growth since its inception in 2003. Under his guidance, the organization has transformed from a humble one-bedroom apartment Bible study into a thriving 22,000 sq. ft. facility, impacting countless lives. The facility is home to countless programs including a state licensed child care program, recovery programming, a food pantry, and a free clothing store. This growth is largely attributed to Lance’s commitment to developing and empowering staff and volunteers, which has significantly expanded the church’s reach and influence. His ability to secure over a million dollars in grant funding has been instrumental in facilitating this expansion.
Lance boasts a distinguished record of early achievements, having been the youngest licensed lay minister in the United Methodist Church in their district and one of the youngest national board members to serve in Open Bible Churches. He was also recognized as one of Pittsburgh Magazine’s 40 Under 40, an honor awarded to outstanding leaders making significant contributions to their communities. Currently, he serves as a district director and has been a member of the regional board for Open Bible Churches East since 2017.
A champion of family values, Lance leads with empathy and inclusivity, recognizing families with children as vital societal pillars. This belief underscores his commitment to making a positive community impact. His advocacy for inclusivity and gender equity is evident in his intentional efforts to promote women within the organization, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in leadership.
Beyond his church leadership, Lance is an author, providing guidance on dream interpretation, marketing, leadership, and recovery. His writings inspire those seeking to deepen their faith and navigate personal challenges. He has also hosted workshops on personal growth, spiritual disciplines, and innovative leadership.
As the leader of the South Pittsburgh Opioid Action Coalition, Lance has spearheaded initiatives to address racial disparities in overdose deaths, equipping Black churches with life-saving resources. He has led programming to help redefine how individuals with substance use disorders are understood and supported, earning recognition from the City of Pittsburgh and contributing to public policy. Lance also serves in leadership with the Faith Community Collaborative, a network of faith-oriented substance-use providers across Pennsylvania, where he fosters partnerships and collaboration at the intersection of faith and recovery.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lance’s strategic leadership was pivotal for the Brookline Christian Food Pantry. He adapted funding models and expanded programming to meet urgent needs, helping distribute more than 100,000 meals to children and families during the pandemic. The pantry continues to serve the Brookline community as an ecumenical project, providing two weeks of groceries to as many as 200 families each month.
In childcare, after acquiring a failing preschool, Lance led its transformation into the thriving Brookline Sprouts Preschool and Extended Care. The program serves the Brookline community with affordable, high-quality care. Brookline Sprouts now includes a strong school-age program, has achieved Keystone STARS 4 status, and offers 115 enrollment slots.
Lance Rhoades is a multifaceted leader whose innovative strategies, unwavering faith, and commitment to empowerment are shaping a lasting legacy within his community and beyond. Lance has been married to Amanda since 2004. They have three children and live in Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood. He has completed his Doctor of Ministry coursework at The King’s University in Southlake, Texas, and is now in the dissertation/project phase of the Executive Leadership program.
