Igniting Cities

Before answering Gods call on Michael’s life, he was hopelessly addicted to life destroying drugs for nearly a decade. After entering into a Christian Recovery Center in 2004, Michael encountered the powerful love of Jesus. All of his chains of addiction were finally broken. Following his completion of the program, God called Michael to school, where he met his wife, Amber Thornton. In May of 2012, both Amber and Michael graduated from Regent University. He holds a Masters degree in Public Administration/Non-profit Organizations. 


During this time, God began to stir in Michael’s heart the flames of revival. God quickly opened some amazing doors, and Michael was able to share his story amongst hundreds of different churches and organizations. His testimony was even featured on the 700 Club.  


Continuing to follow the call for a national and global spiritual awakening, the Lord led Michael to re-dig the ancient wells of revival in North Carolina. Fruit from this assignment has lead to his first book–Fire in the Carolinas: The Lasting Legacy of G.B. Cashwell and A.B. Crumpler. This work has also led to a great hunger and passion to see the Southern United States lead the nation in a global healing revival between the races and churches.  


Michael and his wife Amber live in Wilmington, North Carolina, with their five children: Jordan, Abby, Briella, Bethany, and Jonah. Michael serves as the director of Ignite Ministries and Outreach Pastor of Global River Church.