Hello
I'm Michael French - attorney, pastor, home builder, husband, father and grandfather. I've lived in Leeds since 2009 and love this community! I served as the pastor of The Bridge Birmingham in Irondale for almost 20 years and I'm currently the director of The Gathering Place School of Ministry in Moody. I oversee an international network of churches and ministries called Patria Ministries International. I love God, my family and people. My grandkids call me pop and that's how I became "Santa Pop".
My Story
Michael is a seasoned leader, attorney, and global ministry executive. With over three and a half decades of experience in law, faith-based leadership, and international outreach, he brings a unique blend of faith, compassion, and vision to role as Santa.
Professional and Educational Background
Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in English from Jacksonville State University in 1985, followed by a Master's in Public Administration in 1986. He completed his Juris Doctor at The University of Alabama in 1989 worked full time as an attorney becoming a partner in the law firm of Scofield, West & French. He continues to maintain his law license and is frequently called upon to provide legal consultation for non-profit organizations.
Community and Faith Leadership
In 1999, Michael began to transition from law to bi-vocational ministry, founding The Bridge Birmingham, where he served as senior pastor for 20 years. He later established Patria Ministries, an international network of church and ministry leaders. Through Patria Michael has trained and equipped spiritual leaders across the globe, traveling to more than 20 countries. He is also he co-founder of Pavilion Village Children's Home in Karatina, Kenya, providing shelter and education for orphans.
Author and Educator
A respected author, Michael has written several books focusing on spiritual growth and leadership, including:
Fresh Bread: Finding Your Daily Portion in the Lord's Prayer
The Elisha Way: Preparing for the Double Portion
The Remedy (co-authored with his father, Bill French)
Dream Stories: Unlocking Your Night Parables
These works have ben recognized for their insightful exploration of faith and personal development.
Personal Life and Local Commitment
Michael and his wife, Elisa, have been married since 1988 and have resided in Leeds, Alabama since 2009. They have four sons: Joshua (married to Michelle), Caleb, Jacob and Noah and two granddaughters: Sarah and Ellie.
Contact
I'm always looking for ways to share how much Jesus has meant in my life and becoming Santa at Christmas time is no exception.