Welcome to the Garden
We’re led by a team of Spirit-filled leaders who carry different graces, perspectives, and responsibilities.
This is what we call pluralistic leadership. It’s a model that reflects the unity of the Body and the diversity of the gifts within it. Together, our board helps nurture and guide the spiritual, practical, and organizational health of this house. Our call is simple: to build a church that is healthy, honest, and wholly centered on Christ.
The Garden Team
Pastor James Ray Taylor
Lead Pastor & President
Pastor James Ray Taylor leads The Garden Life Church alongside his wife, Karen Taylor. Together, they are passionate about cultivating a Christ-centered, family-driven community where people can meet God, be planted, grow strong, and bear fruit. They have four children James, Joey, Katelyn, and Kristy — who share in the joy of ministry and family life. Pastor Taylor’s heart for authenticity, discipleship, and spiritual growth has shaped The Garden’s mission to help people discover purpose and walk boldly in faith.
Dr. Kenyon Godwin
Elder & Vice-President
Dr. Kenyon is a visionary chiropractor, wellness consultant, speaker, and business strategist committed to transforming lives and organizations from the inside out. An Air Force veteran, former Chairman of the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, and Goldman Sachs 10KSB graduate, Dr. Godwin is deeply rooted in faith, family, and community. He has been married to Courtney for over 25 years and has an intentional relationship with his three daughters.
Fun Fact: He reads about 25-50 books a year.
Tenika Butler
Elder
Tenika Butler is a Transformational Speaker, Coach, and licensed Minister passionate about helping people grow and live with purpose. As a wife and mother, she’s devoted to cultivating a Christ-centered home and raising her children to be healthy and whole. Through coaching, consulting, and ministry, Tenika empowers others to gain clarity, overcome barriers, and walk boldly in their God-given calling. A breast cancer survivor, she lives each day with gratitude and joy alongside her husband of 20 years, Jeremy, and their children, Nia and Elisha.
Fun Fact: Tenika loves watching HGTV!
Ken Simien
Elder & Treasurer
Ken Simien, married to Cecilia Simien, have been involved in several ministries and in various roles. With 6 kids, they have also mentored and parented other youth and young adults over a 15-year span. They moved from Beaumont, Texas in 2018 and planted themselves in Mansfield, Texas. They are authors of the book "The Fine Print of Marriage" and share their passion on the importance of marriage in the church and community. Cecilia is pursuing higher education in accounting while Ken resumes his focus on completing his Doctorate.
Fun Fact: Ken and Cecilia are founders of a charity that gives to the homeless, veterans, and battered women.
Sarah J. Makanjuola
Elder & Secretary
Sarah J. Makanjuola helps to shape the vision, voice, and culture of The Garden Life Church. A faith-driven leader and founder of Sarah Jane Fitness, she believes that spiritual growth and holistic wellness go hand in hand and that when we’re rooted in Christ, we flourish in every area of life. Sarah brings clarity, creativity, and a shepherd’s heart to every space she leads, from church planting to wellness coaching. Her passion is to build people and systems that reflect God’s order, excellence, and grace.