Our Staff
the Rev. Michael LeBlanc
Pastor Michael joined our team in July 2021. He was born in Boston but was raised in Polk County. Michael served in youth ministry for ten years and is a graduate of Iliff School of Theology. He is passionate about people and helping them know Jesus. Michael believes the church is how the world will change and he can’t wait to see it happen.
Michael is married to Amanda and they have a 7 year old named Annabelle who loves art and swimming.
Michelle Manzi
Michelle is our Worship Coordinator. Her main job is helping our volunteer leaders lead the congregation in worship. She helps bring musical excellence, technical knowledge and community engagement to our praise team.
Michelle and her family helped make Shepherd’s a reality as a founding member of the church. She has memories of the good old days and dreams about the best days ahead!
Vikki Capron
Vikki is the Director of Children’s Ministries. She, and her family, are founding members of Shepherd’s Community and so thankful to be back on staff in this amazing church family. Vikki is a life-long resident of Florida and has lived in Lakeland for the past 25 years, where she and her husband became members of this church and grew their family of 3 boys (and several years of foster children). Vikki is a graduate of Florida Southern College and has a degree in Religion/Christian Education. She is very excited to back in her roots of ministry and serving.
Vikki’s main responsibilities are working with the amazing children of Shepherd’s Community, from birth through 5th grade, and their families. Vikki hopes to grow our children’s ministries into a thriving and vibrant place for all the children of our community.
Alena Nicely
Alena is a native Floridian, her father was a Pastor with the Assemblies of God. She has been married to Scott for 9 years. Together they have 7 adopted children, 1 dog and 2 cats! Tyler, the youngest, has a rare genetic condition: FoxG1 Syndrome. Alena is his full time caregiver, coordinating all of his specialist appointments and therapies.
Alena's love language is all things coffee! She loves listening to true crime podcasts and reading books when she has time. Leaning heavily on past experience, Alena brings her management knowledge, organizational skills and efficient work style to Shepherds.