Church Staff
James McCleary
Senior Pastor
James McCleary commenced in February 2021 as Senior Pastor at Toongabbie Baptist Church. James is married to Ally, and they have three active young boys. James was a tradie born and bred in Parkes NSW until God convicted him to serve Him in full-time ministry. So in 2013, he and the family headed off to bible college to be better equipped to share Jesus.
He loves a good challenge. Alongside his competitive spirit, he enjoys playing tennis, squash and going for runs. James enjoys renovating and making things. He loves to read.
There is one thing James is more passionate about. He is all about Jesus. The good news of Jesus changes everything. And because of this, James is passionate about gospel-centred preaching and ministry as he seeks to lead Toongabbie as we make and grow disciples.
Raphael Joson
Associate Pastor
Raphael Joson started in February 2022 as the Associate Pastor for Maturity and Community. He is married to Rhea, and they have three kids. RJ spent his childhood in the Philippines before migrating to Western Sydney. After high school, he joined the Australian Navy as a Technician but was called by God to turn his life around and devote his life to telling people the wonderful news that Jesus brings. He completed his B. Theology and M.A. Theology at Sydney Missionary and Bible College (SMBC) and then spent ten years ministering in Eastern Melbourne before returning to Western Sydney.
RJ loves understanding different cultures and trying different cuisines. He doesn’t have many hobbies aside from burning off his food by exercising but only so that he can enjoy more food.
Agnes Anandaraj
Ministry Coordinator
Agnes Anandaraj commenced in 2017 to oversee the Office and Hospitality Ministries. She now oversees the Ministry and Magnification areas. Agnes trained as a Civil Engineer in India. At an young age, she committed her life to serving God in all possible ways. Agnes married her husband Anandaraj in 2006 and they are blessed with 2 children. They immigrated to Australia in 2015 and have been attending Toongabbie Baptist Church ever since.
In her free time Agnes likes to cook, bake and watch detective Netflix series. She loves spicy food and anytime up for a hot sauce challenge.
Tasha Arhipoff
Operations Coordinator
Tasha and her husband, John, have three beautiful girls. The Arhipoffs have been attending Toongabbie Baptist Church since 2018. In 2022 Tasha was thrilled to leave her career in corporate finance to commence as Operations Coordinator here.
Tasha enjoys baking, cooking, reading and spending time with family and friends.
Elders
The Elders oversee the spiritual affairs of the Church, in collaboration with the Pastoral Team. Together they spiritually care for the people connected with the church through preaching, visitation and prayer. Our current Elders Stuart Jennings, John Anandanathan and Mark Penna,
Deacons
The Deacons, as far as may be in their power, are responsible for the practical ministry of the Church and manage the routine operations of the Church. In particular they look after the finance, property, administration and membership of the Church. Our current Deacons are John Searle and Rohan Thevarajah.
