About

Dr. Brian Powell serves as the Superintendent of the Kentucky District Church of the Nazarene, a network of over 100 congregations across the Bluegrass State. The Kentucky District includes metropolitans, small cities, rural communities, and everything in between. 

Previously, Dr. Powell served as the lead pastor at Decatur First Church in central Illinois. During his tenure, the church cast a vision for reaching the community and experienced notable growth. From 2005 to 2013, Dr. Powell served as the lead pastor of Amplify Church (formerly Raleigh First) in North Carolina. The church established a missional focus through his leadership and experienced significant growth. As a result, the church made GROW Magazine’s top 50 church growth list for two consecutive years. 

Dr. Powell served as a church planter from 2002 to 2005 and an associate pastor from 1997 to 2001. He is also an adjunct professor for the School of Theology and Christian Ministry at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL, a position he has held since 2016.

Dr. Powell earned a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) from Nazarene Theological Seminary, Master of Divinity (M.Div) from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) from Houston Graduate School of Theology. He completed his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) at John Wesley College, where he graduated valedictorian of his class. 

Brian is passionate about equipping pastors, planting churches, and missional leadership. He enjoys traveling, reading, guitars, motorcycles, weightlifting, mountain biking, and learning new things. His favorite pastime is being a papaw to Jesse and Zoe Jane.

Brian and his wife Heather met in high school and were married in 1991. In December 2021, they celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary. Heather is a registered nurse with career experience as a nursing home administrator and nurse consultant. 

The Powells have four children: Jake (married to Emily) is a registered nurse, small business owner, and a graduate of Olivet Nazarene University. Amaya is a graduate of Liberty University with a degree in graphic design. Kacey is a sophomore in college studying culinary arts. Lilah is a senior in high school. As noted, Brian and Heather have two grandchildren. The Powells reside in the greater metro area of Louisville, KY.