A proud native of Selma, Alabama, Pastor Phineka Friend is a dynamic speaker and teacher. Thoroughly motivated by the idea of being able to impact people and turn hearts to God, Pastor Phineka approaches every message/ministry moment with an unique style that perfectly meshes her country parables with biblical truths. Whether in front of a few or thousands, the main objective is to inspire people to lean into their truest potentials and to ultimately experience God.

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In 2016, she and her husband, Pastor LaBryant Friend, relocated to Atlanta, GA where they currently function as the Lead Pastors of Belong Church Atlanta. Being an avid pusher of academics and a former educator, Pastor Phineka also holds a Bachelor Degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice.

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Widely known and adored for her warm hugs and embraces, Phineka is revered by many as “Mother”. Though she is seen as a mother to countless people near and far, she is the proud mother of 4 beautiful girls, who are popularly known as “The Friendlettes”:  Ashriel, Londyn, Amana, and Layel.

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The summation of her life and testimony is captured in one scripture: Proverbs 31:30 – “Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised!”