Our Leadership
Marcus Payne II
Pastor of Teaching and Engagement
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Marcus Payne II (he, him, his) was born in Lynwood, IL, and went to North Park University Chicago for his undergraduate degree. In 2018, he graduated with a bachelor's in both Biblical and Theological Studies and Youth Ministry from North Park. He currently holds professional roles as the Assistant Director of Diversity and Intercultural Life at North Park University and is the Director of Discipleship for Covenant Youth Collision. He has been an Assistant Director for two years at North Park and has worked for Covenant Youth Collision in different capacities since his sophomore year in college. When he graduated college, he was hired as a Resident Director at North Park and served in that role for a year and a half.
Marcus has a passion to see young adults and youth learn more about the ways God has created them uniquely. Marcus enjoys building community with the folks around him and has a heart for seeing Black people thrive. He has had opportunities to present at conferences and summer camps to discuss various topics including discipleship, diversity, equity inclusion, and theological discussions on systematic injustices facing marginalized communities.
Marcus met his spouse at North Park University and her name is Miranda Lonzo (she, her, hers)! They have been married for four years and have been attending Lighthouse Church of Chicago since January 2020. They look forward to continuing to serve and help the church any way they can.
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Luther Young, Jr.
Pastor of Worship and Spiritual Formation
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Reverend Doctor Luther Young (he, him) is an artist, public theologian, and social justice advocate. He was first licensed to Gospel ministry in 2011 and ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 2019. Over the years, Pastor Luther has served various congregations and organizations nationwide as a worship director, minister of music, youth pastor, young adult pastor, and media director. He currently serves as Council Moderator of the Disciples LGBTQ+ Alliance (AllianceQ).
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Luther earned his B.S. in Audio Engineering Technology from Belmont University (2012), M.Div. from Vanderbilt University (2018), M.A. in Sociology from The Ohio State University (2020), and Ph.D. in Sociology from The Ohio State University (2024). Dr. Luther is an Assistant Professor of Religion and Society at Boston University School of Theology. His research examines the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and religion.
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Much of Luther’s academic and community work seeks to address class inequalities, racial injustice, and systems of discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and other disadvantaged groups. His recently published articles examine how homophobia in black churches is expressed and perceived by parishioners and suggest potential strategies for inclusion and affirmation in these spaces.
Courtney Driver
Worship Leader
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​​CO. (she, they) is a Chicago native who has been immersed in the culture of music and the arts for the majority of her life. She entered into the industry as a background vocalist, supporting artists such as Chandler Moore, Israel Houghton, Todd Dulaney and more. As a featured lead vocalist of Musicality, she's opened for Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera and Imagine Dragons. Her background in Jazz and Gospel music influence her heartfelt approach to worship.
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James Thomas
Operations Manager
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Originally from Birmingham, AL, James Thomas (he, they) earned his Bachelors of Science in Biology from the University of Alabama and his Masters of Science in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University.
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Throughout his career in higher education and student affairs, James has always worked to empower those whom society has disenfranchised while dismantling oppressive systems.
James has a passion for helping those society tells not to be heard to find their voice.
Alongside fighting isms through reflection, deconstruction, and empowerment, James enjoys diving into the world of music, discussing the art of the reality show confessional hand choreography, and continuing his search for authentic Southern food and vibes in Chicago.
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