Fair Haven Assembly of God sits on North Beech Daly Road in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, a family-oriented Pentecostal congregation that has made its name by raising up God-fearing families one generation at a time. Under the leadership of Pastors Thomas and Tanisha Finley, the church blends dynamic worship, Bible-based teaching, and a tight-knit youth ministry with a long-running children's program and monthly gatherings that pull men and women into deeper community.
The Finleys Lead Together
After serving as the youth and young adult pastor alongside his wife Tanisha, Thomas Finley stepped into the lead pastor role in 2019. Tanisha Finley continues to direct the youth and student ministry, and the couple's partnership shapes nearly every part of the church's life. Both graduated from North Central University in Minneapolis and entered full-time ministry as youth pastors at a Minneapolis-area church, where they developed a healthy and strong youth ministry. In 2009 the Lord led them back to Michigan, where they once again pursued their passion: raising up a generation of God-fearing student leaders. That passion has now matured into raising up strong God-fearing families as they lead Fair Haven.
Their teaching is described as dynamic, relevant, and Bible-based. The willingness to be relatable and transparent, they say, sets them apart and allows them to connect with people on a deep level. The Finleys live in Detroit and have six children: Talya, Thomas IV, Teah, Tirzah, Trinity, and Titus.
Sunday Mornings on Beech Daly
The Sunday rhythm at Fair Haven is straightforward and welcoming. Prayer begins at 9:30 am, followed by Adult and Children's Church at 10 am. Fellowship follows the service, giving the congregation a chance to linger over coffee and conversation. Worship is dynamic and inspirational, paired with Bible-based messages designed to be relevant to everyday life. Services are livestreamed on YouTube, so anyone at home or traveling can join in. A library of past sermons from Pastor Thomas Finley is archived on the church's media page, and guest speakers also preach periodically.
Children's Ministry with Pastors John and Patti Marks
Fair Haven's children's ministry is led by Pastors John and Patti Marks and runs alongside the adult service each Sunday. Children are taught a biblical worldview, including how to incorporate it in today's culture. Life lessons are woven in to prepare them for life, not just Sunday morning but the rest of the week.
Alive Student Ministries
Alive Student Ministries, directed by Pastor Tanisha, gathers students into a close-knit group that is taught to disciple other students, family, and friends. The ministry's vision is that students love, grow, and serve God and others. Its mission is to offer safe and encouraging spaces for students to connect and grow in their relationship with God and others with a focus on discipleship. Students who want to join fill out a brief interest form on the student ministry page, and Pastor Tanisha follows up directly.
Women Building Together
The women's ministry meets in two regular monthly rhythms. On the second Saturday of each month, the women gather at the church for a Women's Breakfast. The Women's Get Together meets on the third Friday at noon each month, an all-encompassing group of women doing servanthood and fun together. Activities include craft projects, fundraisers, benevolent outreaches, Meal and Movie events, and Bible studies. The current women's Bible study focuses on the Book of Daniel.
Iron Sharpens Iron
The men's ministry meets at the church on the last Saturday of the month to cook their own all-you-can-eat breakfast together. A faithful message is given to ponder during the week ahead, and everyone is welcome. The study material is Tony Evans' book "Living As An Overcomer," with books and study guides available on request. Iron sharpens iron is more than a motto; it shapes the rhythm of the morning.
Mission and Beliefs
Fair Haven's mission is to lead people into an authentic, life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ. The church engages people to love God and others, equips people for life, and points them to Jesus Christ. Their philosophy is deeply rooted in the Holy Scriptures, which they describe as life's only guidebook, and they emphasize a balanced focus on worship, community, discipleship, evangelism, and service.
Fair Haven is part of the Assemblies of God fellowship and upholds the denomination's 16 Fundamental Truths. Worship, the church says, is not just found in prayer but is something expressed in everything they do. The vision is to create an environment that draws people into a thriving relationship with Jesus Christ and His church, and to help people solidify that relationship by investing their time, talent, and treasure to reach and serve the community and world.
Getting Connected
Anyone who has recently made a decision to follow Christ, is looking for a new church family, or simply wants more information about Fair Haven can reach out through the church's Connection Corner form. Online giving is processed through Tithe.ly, which charges a minimal processing fee that is lower when giving by ACH. Visitors planning a first visit can expect a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where worship, teaching, and fellowship are woven into every Sunday morning. The office can be reached at (313) 277-3847 or office@fairhavenag.org for questions about programming, events, or how to get involved.