Our Pastors
Faithful Leadership & Vision
At MorningStar Church, our pastors are devoted to preaching the gospel, guiding our church family, and equipping believers to live out their faith. With a heart for discipleship and a passion for life transformation through Christ, they lead with wisdom, grace, and a steadfast commitment to God’s Word.
Pastor Tony Byrd
Lead Pastor
About Our Founders: Tony & Heather Byrd
In May 2000, after several impactful years in local church youth ministry, Tony and Heather Byrd answered God’s calling to launch MorningStar Church in Tampa, FL. What began as a small Bible study with just six people has grown into a thriving, faith-filled community making a powerful impact in Tampa and beyond.
Tony prepared for ministry at Lee University in Cleveland, TN, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Education (1991), followed by a Master of Divinity from the Pentecostal Theological Seminary (1994). Together, he and Heather are the proud parents of Caroline Banegas (and husband Arvin), Ellis, Gillian, and Jin. When they’re not leading the church, they enjoy music, sports, fitness, travel, reading, and quality time with family.
More than anything, they love the people of MorningStar Church and the city of Tampa—and they’d love to meet you, too! Join us this Sunday and experience MorningStar for yourself.
Pastor Stephanie Parker
Associate Pastor
Stephanie is a storyteller, leader, and servant at heart, passionate about seeing hope renewed and dignity restored in people’s lives. After two decades as a marketplace executive, she answered God’s call to ministry, bringing her leadership experience and heart for missions to the work of the Kingdom.
With over 12 years leading mission teams in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Swaziland—often alongside her husband, Scott—Stephanie is driven to help servant leaders experience God’s grace, freedom, and transformation through the Holy Spirit.
She holds a B.A. in Biblical & Theological Studies from Liberty University and a Master’s in Ministerial Leadership from Southeastern University. A Florida native, she loves the beach, running, swimming, and relaxing in her hammock.
Stephanie and Scott, proud parents of five adult children, along with their rescue pets, are thrilled to join the MorningStar Church family— believing God has amazing Kingdom work ahead!
Our Team
Serving with Purpose and Passion
At MorningStar Church, our dedicated team is committed to creating a place where people connect, grow, and go in their faith. From worship and children’s ministry to outreach and administration, every ministry is led with excellence, love, and a heart for service, ensuring lives are impacted for Christ.
Our Elders
Spiritual Leadership & Guidance
MorningStar Church elders provide prayerful leadership, biblical wisdom, and spiritual oversight, ensuring we stay faithful to God’s calling while caring for our church family.
Angie Pino
