
Zion Ministries Christian Center
Servant Leadership
Meet the dedicated individuals who serve through our ministry. Each servant member brings unique gifts, faith, and a heart for people as we work together to support, encourage, and grow our church community.
LARRY L. TOLIVER
PASTOR

Pastor Larry L. Toliver first encountered God as a child, and although he drifted away from the Word during his young adult years, the Holy Spirit continually drew him back into a relationship with Christ. After meeting his wife, Elder Leslie R. Toliver, he fully surrendered his life to God, was baptized in the Holy Spirit, and committed himself to living according to the truth and principles found in Scripture. From that point forward, Pastor Larry faithfully devoted his life to serving both God and His people. Over the years, he has served in many areas of ministry, including as a Praise Team member, Deacon, Minister, and now Pastor, demonstrating a heart of humility, faithfulness, and servant leadership in every role. Pastor Larry is a passionate teacher and evangelist with a deep love for the Word of God and a sincere desire to see lives transformed through the power of Jesus Christ. Known for his compassion, wisdom, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, he has consistently used his gifts and life experiences to encourage, uplift, and minister to others. In addition to his ministry work, Pastor Larry enjoyed more than 40 years of success in sales, where he developed strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills that now continue to benefit the Kingdom of God. Through every season of life, his unwavering faith and trust in God have remained steadfast.
LESLIE R. TOLIVER
ELDER

Elder Leslie Toliver began her walk with the Lord in May 1984 while attending a Bible study at San Jose Word of Faith Christian Center. Having not been raised in the church, she was immediately drawn to the powerful teaching and preaching of the Word of God. During that time, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior and was baptized in the Holy Spirit, developing an insatiable hunger and thirst for God’s Word. In January 1987, Elder Leslie was led by the Holy Spirit to begin a prayer gathering for women, bringing together women from various denominations in unity and prayer. What began as a one-night prayer meeting has since grown into a 38-year ministry journey marked by faith, prayer, and spiritual impact. Ordained in 1987, Elder Leslie has faithfully dedicated her life to equipping God’s people with the knowledge of who they are in Christ Jesus and helping believers understand and effectively use the spiritual weapons God has provided. Through her gifts, talents, and unwavering faith, she continues to encourage, strengthen, and inspire others in their walk with the Lord. Elder Leslie has been happily married for 37 years to Pastor Larry L. Toliver, her friend, partner, and fellow servant in ministry.
JODE A. JOHNSON
SERVANT LEADER

After growing up in a small town in southern Minnesota, Jode moved to Minneapolis to pursue a degree in Accounting and went on to build experience in several industries, including insurance, construction, and nonprofit organizations. In 2002, God opened the door for her to relocate to California, and in 2007 she was led to a small church in San Jose, where she met Elder Leslie R. Toliver. Under Elder Leslie’s mentorship and teaching of the Word of God, Jode was encouraged to grow spiritually and step out in faith to use her gifts in ministry. In August 2012, she graduated from Impact! School of Ministry. Jode is a founding member of Zion Ministries and has faithfully served for nine years in many areas of ministry, including ushering, audio and visual support, evangelism through the Assault Team, contributing to The Voice of Zion newsletter, serving as Treasurer, and assisting wherever needed. Through her faithfulness, servant’s heart, and dedication to the work of the ministry, she continues to be a blessing and encouragement to others.
LYNETTE SEALS
HEAD USHER

Lynette began her walk with Christ at a young age, growing up as the child of a pastor and being baptized at the age of 10 at Fruitvale Baptist Church in Oakland, California. Living with Sickle Cell Anemia gave her many opportunities to personally experience God’s grace, faithfulness, and healing power throughout her life, strengthening her faith and teaching her how to fully depend on Him. As she grew older, Lynette continued seeking to better understand her calling and purpose in Christ. From the age of 18 through her late 40s, she visited many churches in search of a true church home where she could continue to grow spiritually and use her gifts. In September 2012, she joined Zion Ministries, where she continues to grow in her identity and confidence in Christ. Through her journey, Lynette has become more comfortable sharing her gifts, her love for cooking, and the unconditional love of God with others. Her walk with the Lord has also taught her that family extends beyond blood relationships and is found within the family of God. Lynette faithfully serves as Head Usher at Zion Ministries and also shares her talents and expertise blessing others with her servant’s heart, compassion, and dedication to ministry.