Our Story

Pastor Berry Chatas was born in Vineland, New Jersey, and moved with his family to Winter Haven, Florida, at the age of nine. Polk County remained home for many years until April 11, 2015, when he and his family relocated to Rock Hill, South Carolina, in response to God’s call to plant Faith Rising Community Church.

Education

  • Winter Haven Senior High School, Class of 1986
  • Associate of Divinity (Honors), The Baptist College of Florida (2015)
  • B.A. in Biblical Studies (Honors), The Baptist College of Florida (2020)
  • Currently pursuing a Master of Divinity, Southern Evangelical Seminary (Rock Hill, SC)

A Call to Ministry

In the summer of 2012, while attending a service focused on living a Christ-centered life, Pastor Berry sensed God calling him into ministry. At the time, he was serving on the worship team, while his wife, Carol, and their daughter, Suzi, were actively involved in the life of the church. As the Lord continued to lead, the family prayerfully prepared for the next season of ministry.

Called to Rock Hill, South Carolina

In July 2014, Pastor Berry and Carol sensed the Lord leading them to Rock Hill, South Carolina. Having surrendered to go wherever God would send them, they began taking practical steps of faith—selling their business in Winter Haven, Florida, visiting the Rock Hill area, building relationships, and exploring ministry opportunities (Isaiah 6:8). Their son, Steven, remained in Florida to assist with the business transition, while their daughter, Suzanne, was accepted to Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where she pursued elementary education.

On April 11, 2015, Pastor Berry and Carol moved to Rock Hill and began laying the foundation for Faith Rising Community Church. Through early support and meaningful partnerships—including Outbreak Church, which served as the sending and sponsoring church, and Heartland Church in Florida—the initial core team and community connections began to take shape (Proverbs 3:5–6).

2021

In April 2021, Faith Rising Community Church continued moving forward with resilience, faith, and a renewed commitment to ministry. On April 1, 2021, the church moved into its home at 434 Museum Road in Rock Hill, South Carolina, and partnered with the York Baptist Association to share building use—strengthening relationships and expanding ministry connections within the community.

Vision

As Faith Rising has continued to grow, its vision has remained steadfast: to follow Jesus faithfully, live out an Acts 2 model of biblical community, and serve as the hands and feet of Christ while trusting God for all that lies ahead.

2023

In 2023, Faith Rising entered a renewed season of spiritual growth and discipleship. Alongside growth in attendance, the church experienced deeper maturity, unity, and devotion to the Lord.

  • The church prayed faithfully for God’s provision of a dedicated facility as its season with the York Baptist Association approached its conclusion.
  • Pastor Chatas welcomed Pastor Bob Knight to the ministry, strengthening shared leadership, collaboration, and pastoral care.

2024

In January 2024, Faith Rising celebrated its seventh anniversary with gratitude for God’s faithfulness and a continued commitment to sharing the gospel locally, regionally, and beyond.

  • God provided a permanent church home, and Faith Rising purchased a facility in York, South Carolina, in August 2023.
  • Faith Rising continued to grow in spiritual depth, unity, and commitment to its mission.
  • A clear vision emerged for Faith Rising to serve as a catalyst for ministry throughout York County and beyond.

2026

Looking ahead, Faith Rising is preparing for continued growth and expanded outreach. The church is prayerfully planning to plant a new congregation in Lancaster, South Carolina, while remaining committed to sharing the gospel through local and regional ministry efforts.

  • The Faith Rising family continues to grow in unity, discipleship, and mission.
  • FAITH Riders is expanding outreach across the state, including ministry presence at Myrtle Beach Bike Week in May 2026 and community events such as local “Blessing of the Bikes” gatherings.
  • The church is increasing efforts to serve individuals experiencing homelessness in York and Rock Hill by providing meals, building relationships, and sharing the hope of Christ.
  • Members are also launching local ministry efforts to serve residents in nursing homes.
  • Faith Rising is partnering with PATH in York, South Carolina, to support the community through fundraising, service, and collaboration with this meaningful ministry.

The future is bright, and Faith Rising believes God is at work in all that He is doing through the church. May He receive all the glory, for He alone is worthy.

Faith Rising Community Church exists to glorify God, make disciples, and serve the community with the hope and love of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 5:14–16 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”