Emanuel joined the Oxford Bible Fellowship staff in July 2016. He previously served as an associate pastor at Crossroads Community Church in Carol Stream, IL. Emanuel is passionate about the Gospel, expository preaching, and developing leaders. He is excited to be a part of what God is doing in Oxford and at Miami University. He served as the pastor of student ministries from 2016 until he assumed the interim lead position at Oxford Bible Fellowship in May of 2022.
Emanuel immigrated to the United States from Romania and grew up in northern California. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute and a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Columbia International University.
Emanuel and his wife, Melissa, met during their time at Moody. They have three children: Moriah, Ezekiel, and Eden. As a family, they love being active outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and traveling. In his free time, Emanuel loves playing and coaching soccer, watching historical films, and trying to keep up with his three energetic kids!
Contact: eistrate@obf.org