Our Vision
Rooted in the finished work of Christ on the cross — the foundation for our ministry and mission.
At Father’s Embrace Worship Center, our vision is rooted in the finished work of Christ on the cross, which serves as the foundation for our ministry and mission. We are committed to cultivating a community where unconditional love reigns, reflecting the love of God through every interaction.
“We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
We embrace a culture of love, accepting people for who they are as they are, understanding that transformation comes from knowing God on a personal level. We believe in experiencing the unconditional love of the Father and actively giving it away to others.
“Whosoever will, let him come.” Revelation 22:17
We welcome individuals from all walks of life, celebrating the beautiful diversity and unity found in Christ. It is our belief that together, we can all grow, revealing the true nature of God and His kingdom to the world.
“For we are one body, we have the same Spirit.” Ephesians 4:4
We are dedicated to fostering a deepening relationship with God through committed prayer, heartfelt worship, and the diligent study of His Word, recognizing that faith is a journey we take together. God is more than a spirit; He is the epitome of love, the driving force behind everything He has ever done and continues to do, as reflected in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave…”
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18
We actively serve our community, reaching out in love and kindness through mission work that reflects the heart of Christ. As we work while it is day, we commit to personal growth and transformation until we can reflect the light of God’s love on everyone we meet.
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23
With integrity at our core, we uphold ethical standards that reflect the character of Christ in all our actions, creating an environment where worship is both heartfelt and collective, bridging connections that deepen our relationship with God and one another.
“Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” Hebrews 10:24
In community, we build strong, supportive relationships that foster belonging, encouraging each member to use their unique gifts and talents. We empower one another to actively participate in the life of the church, championing hope that transforms lives through the message of redemption found in Jesus Christ.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Romans 8:28
Our vision is to be a beacon of hope, actively sharing the transformative love of Christ and impacting lives within our congregation and beyond, standing firm in the truth that through Christ, all things are made new.
Every stone the builders rejected
To every stone that the builders rejected, cast aside and deemed unfit for use because of conditions and circumstances that were sometimes beyond your control, persecuted and forsaken because you were different — God, the master builder, is looking for you to build you up and to build His church.
With King Jesus as the cornerstone, the gates of hell will not prevail against us. It is our commitment to love and kindness that, if lifted up, will draw all men unto God.
Together, we will build a community founded on love, inclusivity, and service, empowering each member to grow in faith and hope, ensuring that Father’s Embrace Worship Center becomes a refuge and a beacon of light for all. We are in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing for the right reason with the right spirit.
Pastor Leo & Lady Shannon Franklin
Leo Franklin III was born December 2, 1969, in Opelousas, Louisiana, the son of Cleopatra Villian and Leo Franklin Jr., and honors the influence of his bonus father, Samual Vallian. After serving his country with honor, including a year-long tour in Iraq, he retired from the United States Army in 2009 — an experience that profoundly shaped his commitment to serving others, particularly within the veteran community.
Pastor Leo is the founder of Father’s Embrace Worship Center, where he inspires and nurtures the faith of many. He also established the Franklin Bible Institute to provide educational resources for spiritual growth, and created Reconnaissance, a program dedicated to spiritual and mental health resources. Beyond the church, he ministers at nursing homes and prisons, and serves the veteran community as post commander of the American Legion and chaplain for the Veterans of Corrigan Wars.
Pastor Leo is happily married to Lady Shannon Franklin, and together they embody a partnership grounded in faith and service — leading our congregation in cultivating a culture of grace, welcoming whosoever will come, and walking alongside each member as they grow in relationship with the Father.
Come grow with us
Faith is a journey we take together. We’d love to welcome you at our next service or Bible study.