For Jay Manifold, faith isn’t something you watch from the sidelines—it’s something you step into fully, with real participation, real cost, and sometimes even a few scars to show for it. As Technology Deacon at New Life City Church, he sees his role as more than just making sure things run smoothly. It’s about making sure people feel seen, welcomed, and connected. Because at the end of the day, if everything works perfectly but someone walks in and no one talks to them, we’ve missed the point.

Jay’s journey has been anything but predictable. He started in an elite STEM program, only to find himself working on a loading dock a few years later. That experience shaped his respect for the different paths people take and taught him that no title or credential is as important as showing up and putting in the work. His faith and leadership have been guided by Colossians 4:5-6, a reminder to meet people where they are, speak with grace, and make the most of every opportunity to connect.

Beyond New Life, Jay is an amateur astronomer, often sharing the wonders of the night sky at Powell Observatory. He also dabbles in science fiction writing, with a growing collection of stories fueled by an endless stream of ideas. On a perfect day, you’d find him outside with a book, writing something new, and—if the skies are clear—under the stars, telescope in hand.