Chaplain Joseph Howard was born and raised in Gary, Indiana. He attended Gary Public Schools as a child. He attended Purdue Northwest and studied Mechanical Engineering. He got saved in the Church of God in Christ. He later married and to this union two sons were born. He joined the United States Navy as a Machinist Mate. It was then he received the calling to preach the gospel. He volunteered for submarine duty. He was stationed in the Atlantic and Pacific fleets. He served on the USS Lafayette SSBN 616 Blue Crew, was a plank owner on the USS Louisville SSN 724 and was temporarily assigned to the USS Boston SSN 703. Upon transferring he was Auxiliary Engineering Leading Petty Officer (MM1/SS). He transferred to Recruit Training Command Great Lakes Illinois and was awarded Company Commander of the Year. It was after that tour of duty he contracted Rheumatoid Arthritis and was found unfit for active duty. Chaplain Howard has earned a BA in Christian Studies, MDiv, and a ThD in Christian Education.
Joseph Howard II serves as Chief Operating Officer, leading the ministry’s operations and outreach efforts. With over a decade of experience as a Minister of Music, he brings a solid foundation in church leadership and discipleship.
Joseph felt a clear calling to ministry through his years of serving in the church, where he recognized the need for outreach beyond traditional church settings. He is enthusiastic about equipping believers and expanding the reach of the Gospel into communities, campuses, and mission fields.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from Marian University and is known for his leadership, communication, and commitment to biblical principles.
Outside of ministry, Joseph enjoys spending time with his wife, Merissa, and their two children as they build a legacy of faith together.
Merissa Howard serves as Chief Financial Officer, providing financial oversight with integrity, accountability, and strong stewardship. She ensures resources are managed wisely to support the ministry’s mission and growth.
Merissa has a deep heart for stewardship and feels called to use her skills to support ministry work that brings the Gospel to a wider audience. She is especially enthusiastic about supporting veterans and helping meet meaningful needs within the community.
She holds a bachelor’s degree from Millikin University and brings strong organizational skills and financial insight to the foundation.
Merissa enjoys building this ministry alongside her husband, Joseph, and raising their two children with a shared passion for faith and service.
Mrs. Treva Howard serves as Administration Director. She oversees office operations to ensure customer service principles and guidelines run proficiently and effectively. She was raised in Chicago, Illinois. She has 2 adult daughters and 1 adult son. She has seven grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. She is saved and dutifully collaborates with her husband Chaplain Joseph in ministry in the various cities they have lived in.
Phoenix of Grace Ministries has been a blessing to our community. Their dedication to helping veterans brings hope, encouragement, and meaningful support to those in need.
Their support and guidance gave me strength during a challenging season. I truly appreciate the compassion, respect, and care they showed to me and my family.
Their support and guidance gave me strength during a challenging season. I truly appreciate the compassion, respect, and care they showed to me and my family.
Phoenix of Grace Ministries has been a blessing to our community. Their dedication to helping veterans brings hope, encouragement, and meaningful support to those in need.
Phoenix of Grace Ministries has been a blessing to our community. Their dedication to helping veterans brings hope, encouragement, and meaningful support to those in need.
Their support and guidance gave me strength during a challenging season. I truly appreciate the compassion, respect, and care they showed to me and my family.
If you are a veteran in need of support, we are here for you. Reach out today and let us help you move forward with dignity and care.
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