Meet Our Pastors
Pastors Chris & Yassah Lee
Pastors Chris & Yassah Lee began their journey as full time students at Bethune-Cookman University in 1993. After marrying in 1995, they began their ministry journey in the Music Department at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Chris answered the call to preach shortly before the Lord transitioned them to Abundant Life Ministries, where they served as Music Directors, and he as Associate Pastor. For 16 years, Pastor Chris and Yassah served while learning valuable lessons about life and pulpit ministry. Pastor Chris Lee holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership. He acquired 16 hours of doctoral work in Christian Ministry, and 12 hours of doctoral work in Divinity. Pastor Yassah, originally from Monrovia Liberia, West Africa, holds both Bachelors and Master’s degrees in Education. She is the author of ‘The Benefits of Righteousness’, and has 2 recorded albums.
Pastors Chris & Yassah have spent over 25 years dedicating themselves to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Together, they seek to empower everyone to seek the version of themselves that Jesus intended. The Gathering Place, a community of love, faith, and connection, is the very manifestation of what they dreamed of as college students. They humbly welcome everyone to join them as they walk daily with the Lord while standing on the principles of Character, Excellence, Healing, Integrity, Joy, Service, and Selflessness.
“We don’t want to just pastor you… We want to do life with you!”
~ Pastors Chris & Yassah Lee
Pastor Jekita Ashford-Williams
Pastor Jekita Ashford-Williams has been the Associate Pastor of the Gathering Place Worldwide since 2022.
In this vital role, she is led by the Holy Spirit to assist the Senior Pastors in effectively guiding the church community and nurturing the spiritual lives of its members. Her responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities, including preaching, teaching, and providing discipleship to foster a deeper understanding of faith among congregants.
Additionally, she is dedicated to offering pastoral care, ensuring that church members receive the emotional and spiritual support they need during challenging times. Her work aligns closely with the church’s vision and mission, striving to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all. By focusing on nurturing spiritual growth and providing practical guidance, she is committed to helping the church achieve its overarching goals and fulfill its divine calling within the community.
Minister Derris Lee
Minister Derris Lee is a multifaceted musician and educator recognized for his work in music entrepreneurship, performance, and digital media. A GRAMMY® and ANTHEM® Award winner, Derris has earned numerous honors including Global Music, Global Genius, AVA Digital, and Downbeat® Student Music Awards for his excellence as a drummer, percussionist, producer, and composer.
His research and writings on arts entrepreneurship and music education have been published by leading organizations such as the National Association for Music Education, Journal of Arts Entrepreneurship Education, and the Association for Popular Music Education. Derris has presented his work at conferences including Musikfest, the Florida Music Education Association, and the Suncoast Music Education Research Symposium.
As an Instructor of Music Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Florida, he has co-developed innovative courses in music production, digital musicianship, and strategic arts entrepreneurship. Beyond academia, Derris continues to inspire through award-winning performances and collaborations that bridge creativity, technology, and education.