Who We Are
Grace Fellowship Sanctuary
We believe in the transformative power of faith and the strength found in community. We are more than just a congregation; we are a family of believers dedicated to growing together, serving others, and sharing the love of Christ with the world.
Who We Are
Grace Fellowship Sanctuary
We believe in the transformative power of faith and the strength found in community. We are more than just a congregation; we are a family of believers dedicated to growing together, serving others, and sharing the love of Christ with the world.
Meet
GFS Leadership
Pastor Kelly Jones Sr.
Founder
Pastor Kelly Jones, Sr. comes from a distinguished lineage of pastors, elders, ministers, and dedicated church workers. Born in Hartford, CT, he is the twin son of the late Rev. Betty Sue Jones, who instilled in him a deep commitment to family prayer and Christian values from an early age - a practice he proudly continues today. His mother was not only a remarkable pastor and co-pastor but also served in various influential roles within the church. She opened her home to those in need and actively hosted church services, playing a crucial role in the establishment of one of the finest churches in Springfield. As exampled by their mother, he and his siblings became active church participants; this included singing, playing instruments, participating in youth programs, traveling with the church ministry, and so on. As gifted musicians, Elder Jones and his siblings learned to play multiple instruments in support of the ministry. Elder Jones was anointed at age 15 to play the steel guitar, an instrument unique to gospel worship and an instrument he admittedly uses as his way to worship. In 1996 Elder Jones accepted his calling into ministry. It was during these formative years that his love, passion, and zeal for God and His Word flourished as he served in various ministerial leadership positions. This included Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Book Writer, Audio/Visual Production and Planning, Youth Leader & Event Organizer, Men’s Department Staff Planner & Organizer, Building Fund Committee Leader, Officiating Pastor’s Aid Committee, Special Event Organizer, Special Service Program and Newsletter Design and Production, Bible Study, Noon Day Prayer, House-to-House Prayer, Ludlow House of Corrections Pre-Release Ministry, Soup Kitchen Ministry, Homeless Shelter Ministry, Street Ministry, Backsliders’ After-Care Ministry, Music Director, and Chief Musician, and Minister of the Gospel. This is just a glimpse of his extensive involvement in the ministry. In 2006, he assisted his sister, Pastor Gloria Grimes, in starting a new ministry in Springfield. After several years, he and his family transitioned to Revival Time Evangelistic Center, where he continued to serve in various positions and grow in faith. In 2014, after months of consecration & prayer, Elder Jones accepted his calling as Pastor. He and his wife Melissa humbly stepped out on faith to begin a new ministry in their home, Grace Fellowship Sanctuary. Elder Jones believed that if he were obedient to the call, God would provide for the ministry. Grace Fellowship held its first service on September 7th, 2014. In 2015, Grace Fellowship Sanctuary was incorporated into Massachusetts and received its Federal 501c3 nonprofit status. While operating as an independent ministry, Pastor Jones was ordained and installed in 2015 by Apostle Lionel Brown, Archbishop of Church on the Rock Kingdom Cathedral, Providence, RI. Pastor Kelly Jones Sr. and is lovely wife Melissa have been married for over 34 years. Together, and by the Grace of God, they have raised four beautiful adult children: two sons, Kelly Jr and Quentin, and twin daughters, Kandice and Kaprice. Both he and his wife proudly share that each of their adult children has earned a college degree in Human Services with a desire to serve people and the community. Both he and his wife are grateful for all their children, but Kandice holds a special blessing. Born prematurely with her twin sister Kaprice, Kandice was diagnosed with cerebral palsy due to a lack of oxygen to her brain at birth. Doctors expected severe limitations in her speech, mobility, and comprehension. However, by the grace of God, the support of her family, and many prayers, Kandice has surpassed those expectations ultimately earning her PhD in Mental Health Counseling. Pastor Jones is a 30-year veteran Lieutenant of the Springfield Fire Department. He currently serves on the department’s PEER Support Team and PTSD Support Team, as well as on the department’s Diversity Committee. Pastor Jones graduated Suma Cum Lauda with a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies with an emphasis in Biblical Studies. Both he and his wife have been community volunteers for over 30 years while looking for any opportunity to share their faith. Over the years, Pastor Kelly Jones has acquired many titles: Father, husband, friend, coach, mentor, firefighter, musician, and minister, but the title he cherishes the most is being called a child of God.
First Lady Lisa Jones
Assistant Pastor
Lady Melissa Jones is a loving and compassionate Grace Fellowship Sanctuary Inc. member who wholeheartedly supports her husband and the ministry. Whether preparing buffets for church fellowships or humbly sharing sermons of encouragement, she embodies the spirit of service. Known for her many selfless contributions, she is a member of the church's Board of Directors, serves as the Women’s Department President, and helps with church transportation services when needed. She is also a member of the Preparation, Planning, and Research Committee (PPRC) and actively supports the Pastor with the daily functions of the church. She is known by many as a supporter, an encourager, a helper, and a friend. She has a heart for people, especially mothers of disabled children. She earned an Associate of Arts Degree specializing in Human Services/Social Work from Springfield Technical Community College. Lady Melissa is a devoted wife and mother whose life is a testament to the power of love, faith, and family. As a mother of four adult children, Melissa has navigated the joys and challenges of parenthood with grace and unwavering dedication. One of the defining aspects of Lady Melissa's life is her role as the mother of a disabled daughter. This journey has been challenging and rewarding, requiring immense strength and resilience. She draws her strength from her deep faith, which has been a guiding light through the ups and downs of life. Her faith gives her the courage and hope to face each day with a positive outlook. She is the founder of M.O.T.H.E.R.S (Mothers Operating Together, Helping, Encouraging, Relating & Supporting), a support group for mothers of children with special needs. This support group was birthed out of the experiences and challenges she faced as a mother of a special-needs child. The support group is not a “woe-is-me” group but a place where mothers can share their experiences and challenges and receive faith-based support. Mothers are strengthened and encouraged through this ministry, knowing they are not alone in their challenges and feelings. Family is at the heart of her world. She cherishes the moments spent with her husband and children, finding joy in their achievements and comfort in their support. Her family is her anchor, providing a strong foundation of love and encouragement. Lady Melissa's story is one of perseverance and love, a reminder of the incredible strength that comes from faith and family. Her journey inspires those around her, showcasing the profound impact of a mother's love and the unbreakable bonds of family.
Deaconess Judy Smith
FINANCE OFFICER
Deaconess Judy Smith is a devoted servant of the Lord and a dedicated member of Grace Fellowship Sanctuary Inc. As a loving foster mom and grandmother, she believes her calling is to nurture and care for children in need, opening her home as a sanctuary where they can experience His love and grace. Her devotion to family extends to everyone God places in her path, consistently offering a helping hand, a listening ear, and a heart full of love. Deaconess Judy’s passion for ministry shines brightly within the church. She is an active and enthusiastic worker in the house of the Lord, finding great joy in serving her church family and participating in various church activities. Deaconess Judy serves on several committees and is recognized as the church’s first ordained Deaconess while functioning as a finance officer. She also serves as a member of the church’s Preparation, Planning & Research Committee (PPRC). Deaconess Judy stays actively involved in the church's daily functions and ministries, ensuring the church's doors remain open. In 2013, Deaconess Judy was diagnosed with COPD, a chronic lung disease that makes breathing extremely difficult and often leads to oxygen deficiency. This condition regularly requires her to use a portable oxygen distributor daily. Despite the discomfort and fatigue that accompany the condition, her unwavering faith in God remains her source of strength and healing. She finds comfort, strength, and renewal daily through prayer, scripture devotion, and attending weekly church services. Deaconess Judy actively shares her testimony of faith and healing, encouraging others to trust God's power and grace through Jesus Christ. Her life’s journey continues to be a testament to the profound impact of faith as she experiences daily healing and strength, allowing her, despite the condition, to continue serving God and the children she fosters with love, humility, joy, and gratitude. Whether she is offering words of encouragement, helping others discover their purpose, or simply calling members to say hello, Deaconess Judy is a true vessel of God's love
Dr. Kandice Jones
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
As a faithful member of Grace Fellowship Sanctuary Inc., and the twin daughter of Pastor Kelly and First Lady Melissa Jones, Dr. Kandice Jones is an accomplished clinical mental health counselor with seven years of dedicated service at the Center for Human Development. Armed with a Doctor of Education specializing in Mental Health, she has demonstrated expertise in guiding individuals toward holistic wellness. Dr. K (as she is affectionally called) was born prematurely alongside her twin sister, entering the world with a unique set of challenges. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy shortly after birth, she faced numerous physical, mental, and emotional challenges and barriers from an early age. Despite these obstacles, her growing faith in God became her guiding light, providing her with the strength, willpower, and determination to overcome the hurdles in her path. Although wheelchair dependent all her life, her journey has been marked by resilience and perseverance. Her condition never deterred her spirit or her aspirations. With the support of her family and her deep-rooted faith, she pursued higher education with vigor and passion. She is a proud graduate of the Springfield Public School System. She earned her Associate's degree from Holyoke Community College, her Bachelor's degree from Westfield State University, her Master's degree from Cambridge College, and her Doctorate of Education specializing in Mental Health Counseling from American International College. These achievements were not only personal milestones but a testament to her faith, dedication, and hard work. She was determined to succeed and excel, proving to herself and others that limitations are merely stepping stones to greater achievements. Specialization in mental health reflects her commitment to understanding and supporting others who face similar challenges and her desire to make a meaningful impact in the field. Through her life and work providing Mental Health Counseling, volunteering and serving her church and community, Dr. K hopes to be a beacon of inspiration to others who have been dealt with physical, mental, or emotional limitations. Her story is one of hope and triumph, demonstrating that anything is possible with faith in God through Jesus Christ, determination, and the right support. She wants all to know that not only can you achieve your goals, but you also have the ability to make a positive impact on society. Your efforts can truly make a difference.
Evangelist Carolyn Lanier
PRAYER WARRIOR
Evangelist Carolyn Lanier is a faithful member of Grace Fellowship Sanctuary Inc. Born on August 9th, 1956, in Pembroke, GA. She was raised with strong Christian values of faith, love, and community. Her mother and father instilled in her the importance of living a life guided by Christian principles, which she has carried throughout her life. As a mother, she dedicated herself to raising her children with the same Christian values she was taught. She believes in the power of prayer, the importance of attending church, and the value of community service. Evangelist Lanier was ordained as an Evangelist in 1994. In 2019, she obtained an Associate’s degree in Liberal Arts from Springfield Technical Community College, and in 2021 she completed her undergrad, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Our Lady of Elms College. These accolades and accomplishments align with what she believes has been a calling in her life to serve others with the love of Christ and positively impact the world. She is known in her family and community for her compassion, kindness, and generosity. She is an active member of Grace Fellowship Sanctuary Inc., participating in various ministries and annual outreach programs. Aside from serving as the church Prayer Warrior, she is an original member of the church’s Board of Directors. She also serves as a member of the church’s Preparation, Planning & Research Committee (PPRC). Evangelist Lanier’s life is an inspiring testimony of having faced many of life’s most difficult challenges with grace and resilience. From the loss of one of her daughters to overcoming an abusive marriage, Evangelist Lanier has always credited her faith in God with providing her with healing, strength, and guidance. Her life’s story continues to be one of love, faith in God, and dedication to her family and community. Her faith is the cornerstone of her life, guiding her decisions and actions. She continues to inspire those around her with her unwavering faith and commitment to living a life that honors God. Her legacy is one of love, service, and faithfulness.
