The Walter Family
Pastor Joseph has faithfully served in ministry for more than 20 years, dedicating his life to sharing the gospel, discipling believers, and helping people encounter the love of Christ. His ministry journey began as a youth pastor, where he developed a deep passion for investing in the next generation and helping young people discover their identity and purpose in God. Through his faithfulness and leadership, he later stepped into the role of associate pastor. During that season, the Lord began stirring something deeper in his heart, preparing him for an even greater calling. With a sincere love for both the church and those who have yet to experience the hope of Jesus, Pastor Joseph stepped into his role as lead pastor of Ignite Church.
Pastor Joseph’s heart for ministry is centered on meeting people exactly where they are, just as Jesus did during His time on earth. He believes that every person has value, purpose, and a calling placed on their life by God. Through his gifts of encouragement, leadership, and discipleship, he has walked alongside many individuals, helping them grow in their relationship with the Lord and step boldly into what God has called them to do. His approach to ministry is both relational and authentic, focusing on real transformation rather than simply information.
Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Joseph is deeply committed to building genuine relationships within the community. Whether he is preaching on a Sunday morning, praying with someone in a difficult season, or simply having a conversation with someone in everyday life, his desire is the same to reflect the heart of Christ and help others experience the presence of God in a real and personal way.
Pastor Joseph shares life and ministry with his wife, Skylar. The two have been married for nine years and have built a family centered on faith, love, and serving others. They are blessed with two beautiful daughters, Adeline and Isabella. While the girls share many similarities, each has a unique personality that brings constant joy, laughter, and life into their home.
Skylar plays an incredible role in both the family and the ministry. She is a natural encourager who supports Pastor Joseph wholeheartedly while also pouring into those around her. One of her greatest joys is opening their home to others. Whether hosting ministry gatherings, small groups, family meals, or simply creating space for conversation and prayer, Skylar loves making people feel welcomed, valued, and seen.
Together, Pastor Joseph and Skylar strive to lead by example.
They believe ministry is not limited to a stage or a church building, it is lived out daily. The same people you see in the pulpit are the same people you’ll see out in the community, whether in the streets, at the grocery store, at Hobby Lobby, or most importantly within the walls of their home. Their heart is to live authentically, love people genuinely, and inspire others to walk boldly in their faith and calling.
Jerome is the person you call when something needs to get done. The Lord has blessed him with many hands-on gifts that he faithfully uses for kingdom work. Whether it’s fixing the brakes on a neighbor’s car, repairing a roof, or building whatever project his wife asks for, Jerome is always ready to serve. His boldness for Christ radiates through every ministry he’s involved in. Over the past four years, he has faithfully dedicated his time to youth ministry, youth camps, and mission fields, investing in the next generation and sharing the love of Christ wherever he goes.
Bethany has been involved in ministry for 10 years. She began serving in children’s ministry and later stepped into youth ministry. During that time, the Lord called her to lead women’s ministry. For the past six years she has been passionately pursuing the lost, the broken, and the wounded, helping women discover their value and identity in Christ. Bethany loves walking alongside others and reminding women that their first ministry is always in the home. She carries a bold confidence as a daughter of the King, and don’t be surprised if you find her barefoot, staying grounded with the Lord in every step she takes.
Together, Jerome and Bethany are raising their beautiful daughter, Jayden. She will be graduating this summer and plans to attend Lone Star College in the fall to pursue a career in Veterinary Technology. Jayden has had a love for animals since she was little, and over the years their home has become known as a second-chance home for many animals, from lizards and bearded dragons to numerous dogs.
Many people lovingly refer to their home as “the refuge.” Jerome and Bethany have created a place where anyone is welcome to sit at their kitchen table, relax on the porch, or even fold a load of laundry while receiving counsel, encouragement, and a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Reno and Laila are newlyweds who were brought together through the connection of Pastor Joseph. Both Reno and Laila share backgrounds in ministry and carry a deep love for serving God’s people and building His kingdom.
Reno has been a worship leader for over 15 years. With more than seven guitars in his home, he is no stranger to musical instruments. The gift God has placed on his life is remarkable. Reno has a unique ability to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit into a room in a way that is both authentic and transparent. His relationship with the Creator is evident through his worship, his heart, and his music.
Laila has had a passion for children for many years. Having grown up in children’s ministry, she later had the opportunity as a youth student to serve as a student leader, where she began developing her leadership skills among her peers. As an adult, her fire for ministering to children has only grown stronger. Her desire is to love, guide, and effectively minister to children of all ages including her own.
Reno and Laila are joyfully expecting their first child in the summer of 2026 and are excited to begin this new chapter of life and ministry together.
Justin is originally from San Antonio and grew up in Lyford. He graduated from Texas A&M University–Kingsville with a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management and Animal Science Pre-Vet.
Justin became part of the church family in 2021, and later that same year he began serving alongside Joseph, Jerome, and Bethany in youth ministry. During that time, Justin experienced a fresh fire in his relationship with the Lord. As he grew in his personal study and walk with God, he began pouring what he was learning into the youth, whether through small group conversations or occasional teaching opportunities. His passion quickly became contagious, and he has been a strong brother in Christ who encourages and spurs others forward in their faith.
For the past two years, Justin has also been involved in mission work in Guatemala. Through these trips he has been able to use his gift of being bilingual to connect with people and share the love of Jesus with communities that carry incredible joy in the simple things. Justin loves giving back and living out his faith by being the hands and feet of Jesus.
When he isn’t serving in ministry, Justin enjoys spending time outdoors and with his fur baby, Rebel, his 8-year-old border collie who is playful, energetic, and always ready to be outside.