Terrell Pugh is the pastor (elder) of Arise and Live Church and the counseling director of Arise and Live Christian Counseling. Since experiencing the transformative power of Christ's saving grace in 2001, Terrell has committed his life to the study of scripture and the compassionate pastoral care of God's flock.

​

Terrell's ministry journey began in a storefront church in Brooklyn, New York. At House of David Ministries, he quickly became a key teacher in apologetics, church history, and systematic theology. His commitment to people and dedication to the Word led to his ordination as an elder in 2006, where he served in a pastoral capacity and began facilitating small satellite services from his home. This home fellowship flourished, eventually evolving into regular Sunday services.

 

Remaining faithful to 2 Timothy 2:15, Terrell continued to immerse himself in the study of theology, church history, apologetics, biblical studies, and hermeneutics. His dedication to rightly dividing God's Word led to itinerant teaching, where he contributed his teaching gift to churches and ministries in need of sound doctrine. Over the years, Terrell's theological views have grown more conservative and aligned with reformed traditions, providing a robust foundation for his teaching and pastoral ministry.

​

A hallmark of Terrell's pastoral approach is his emphasis on discipleship. In the early years of his ministry, alongside his wife Taneisha, they dedicated countless hours to working with individuals and couples, helping them navigate real-life challenges while honoring God in their lifestyles and decision-making. This experience solidified their calling to serve in the area of counseling.

​

In 2007, after facing the heartbreaking loss of their daughter Gabrielle, Terrell and Taneisha relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where they felt an even clearer call to counseling. Terrell pursued further education, earning a Master's degree in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, and a Doctorate in Developmental Psychology.

​

In 2015, Terrell and Taneisha founded Arise and Live Christian Counseling, Inc. Here, Terrell collaborates with churches and Christian organizations to develop and train individuals in mental health healing and counseling. He also provides pastoral counseling services to individuals, couples, and families, all rooted in reconnecting them to their God-given identity in Christ and discovering the joy and satisfaction found in God.

​

Today, Terrell is the founder and lead pastor-teacher of Arise and Live Church. His mission is soul-care through the authority of Jesus Christ. He aims to exalt God by sharing the message of Jesus Christ, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to save the lost and edify the church. He teaches what it means to rest and exist in God.

​

Terrell and Taneisha have known each other since he was 15 and she was 14. As high school sweethearts, married in 2002, they have weathered many storms and gained much wisdom through life's experiences. They have eight beautiful children, one who has gone on to be the Lord. Their passion for studying and teaching God's Word, counseling, as well as providing pastoral care for individuals is a cornerstone of their lives. Leisurely, they enjoy family time, exploring the great outdoors, traveling, road tripping, theme parks, ziplining, and a good movie. They are committed to enjoying life and professional excellence.