Vital Conversations: Lessons Learned from the Margins.

Name: Todd Stiffler

Spouse:Sheri Stiffler

Kids/Grandkids: Trenton Stiffler & Taelyn Stiffler

Church: Salem Church of God

How long have you pastored this church? 9 years

Other churches you have served? Roanoke Valley Cathedral of Praise now Valley Church & Pulaski Church of God as Youth Pastor

1. How has God confirmed His calling on your life? It may sound simple, but from the moment God called me, I made a commitment that I would never ask anyone for their pulpit. I’ve held tightly to this principle: if God wants me to do something, He will open the door Himself. And throughout my ministry, He has been faithful to do exactly that. Every opportunity has either opened wide or shut completely—both serving as confirmation of His calling and His timing for my life.

2. How has God proven His faithfulness in your ministry? I have seen God’s faithfulness more times than I could ever count. Most recently, when Sheri’s job of 20 years was eliminated due to restructuring, we faced a season of real uncertainty. We rely on her income, she carries our family’s insurance, and naturally, we felt stress and concern. Yet in that season, God provided. Every financial need was met or exceeded, and He opened the door for a brand-new job. It was a fresh reminder that the God who calls us is the God who sustains us.

3. Why do you enjoy pastoring your local congregation? When you first arrive at a church, you pastor people. But nine years later, I’m pastoring a family. That’s what I love most about this congregation. The relationships, fellowship, laughter, tears, hardships, celebrations, and victories we’ve walked through together are what make this journey worth it. Doing life and ministry with them has made this season meaningful and incredibly rewarding.

4. Why is your local congregation vital to your community? This is a hard question to answer. This is a unique season for our church. God is doing something new among us as our vision becomes our reality—a place where people can find HOPE, the good news of Jesus that transforms lives. Beyond that spiritual impact, our church is deeply connected to our community. We partner with our local middle school by helping fund their food pantry, and last year we were able to purchase 100 pairs of name-brand shoes for students in need. It’s our joy to be a place where hope is not just preached but lived out.

5. What is one valuable lesson you’ve learned from a misstep or mistake in handling a situation? I’ve learned the hard way that reacting too quickly—especially when frustration or emotion gets involved—rarely leads to the best outcome. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve gained is this: you don’t have to respond immediately. Sometimes the wisest thing you can do is take 24 hours to pray, reflect, and then respond. That pause can make all the difference.

6. What are some of the future ministry goals for your church? Our heart is to continue fulfilling our mission of offering HOPE to our city and beyond. We’re working intentionally to grow into a vibrant Acts 2:42-47 church—devoted to discipleship, fellowship, worship, generosity, and Spirit-empowered ministry. We also want to strengthen our young adult ministry and expand our impact across other areas of our community as God continues to open doors.

VITAL Conversations with Pastor Todd & Sheri Stiffler