Dustin Morris, Director of Development and Communications
Anchorage, Alaska — Volunteers of America Alaska reached a historic milestone this month, commissioning six new ministers and bringing the ministry’s total to ten. The expansion marks VOA Alaska as the fastest-growing ministry affiliate in the nation—an achievement celebrated with joy, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Since its founding in 1981, VOA Alaska has embraced a vision of serving the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—through a “church without walls.” The ministry is built on the belief that love, grace, and healing are for everyone, regardless of background or belief.
At the commissioning ceremony, Reverend James Marshal, VOA’s Chief Ministry Officer, praised the unique growth happening in Alaska. “What is happening here is remarkable,” he said. “Alaska is not only responding to a need for spiritual care but also showing us what is possible when ministry is rooted in love and lived out in service.”
Marshal reminded those gathered that no other VOA affiliate is growing its ministry at this pace, calling Alaska’s expansion “a clear signal that God’s Spirit is moving in this place.”
Brian Emory, VOA Alaska operations manager and fellow minister himself, echoed that sentiment, pointing to broader trends. “Alaska is one of only two states nationwide to see a documented increase in spiritual engagement last year,” he said. “This is the right time and the right place to grow a ministry that meets people where they are.”
Ministers with Unique Callings
Each of the six new ministers carries a personal story of calling, resilience, and service:
- Lacey Smiley overcame personal struggles and now walks with others in recovery, helping them see that their past does not define their future.
- Brian Pickett sought commissioning to bring soul care into health and wellness spaces, fostering pluralism and creating safe ground for honest spiritual conversations.
- Aaron Osterback has long felt called to reflect compassion through action and sees ministry as faithfully showing up for others in both big and small ways.
- Mi’chelle McCoy describes her faith as a light in darkness and pursues ministry as an opportunity to meet people in humility and love, without judgment.
- Danicia Lyons views ministry as more than preaching—she creates spaces of connection where people feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
- Andi Lebreton brings a passion for community activism and youth engagement, building trust and creating belonging for those seeking a spiritual home.
Together, their commissioning represents not only individual milestones but also the collective heartbeat of VOA Alaska’s ministry: service marked by authenticity, compassion, and open hearts.
A Movement Still Growing
For more than four decades, VOA Alaska has served Alaskans through behavioral health services, housing support, and now an expanding ministry that uplifts the human spirit. The newly commissioned ministers embody the organization’s commitment to walk alongside people in life’s real and messy moments—offering presence, encouragement, and hope.
The story of VOA Alaska’s ministry is still unfolding, and community members are invited to take part. Opportunities include volunteering, offering prayer, supporting programs, or simply showing up in solidarity with those in need.
As Rev. Marshal reminded the audience, “Ministry is not about titles or positions. It’s about showing up with love. And Alaska is showing us all how powerful that can be.”
