Welded: Forming Racial Bonds That Last

This book recounts the two-year journey leading up to the merging of an African American church with a white mega church, highlighting the backstory that began years earlier and bringing the reader to a place of self-reflection.

Jay Stewart grew up in Columbus, Georgia.  He met his wife Melanie in high school, and they were married in 1983.  Together with their five kids and grandkids, they live just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina.  Jay is the Founding and Lead Pastor of The Refuge Church.  In addition to leading The Refuge, he serves on several ministry boards, coaches pastors and church planters, and travels nationally and internationally to speak.  He enjoys traveling, riding his Harley, playing basketball and golf, and spending time with his family.

     Derrick A. Hawkins is a devoted husband to Roshonda Hawkins. Together, they pastor The Refuge Greensboro in Greensboro, NC. He is the loving father of five: Ronnette, Dashawn, Labrica, Adarion, Jaylen, and the late Derrick Jr.  In the summer of 2016, Derrick Hawkins became the Senior Pastor of House of Refuge Deliverance Ministries. In that same year, he led House of Refuge Deliverance Ministries into the historic merger with The Refuge.  Today, he continues to fearlessly lead the campus; bringing the vision to new places and fresh heights. Additionally, Derrick loves jogging, reading books, and adding to his shoe collection. He most enjoys quality time with his family, cooking and watching his sons play sports.