Erik Berling serves as the Family Life Pastor at Praise Community Church. His journey into ministry began in his early teenage years when he first sensed God’s call on his life. From that point on, Erik never looked back, choosing to devote his life to serving Jesus and building up the Church.

Erik attended Southeastern University in Lakeland, FL, where he studied theology and film production. His years at SEU were not only formative for his ministry foundation but also life-changing, as it was there that he met his wonderful wife, Ashley. Erik and Ashley remained in Florida for a total of seven years, faithfully serving and growing together, until the Lord made it abundantly clear that their next assignment was in Lancaster, PA.

In Lancaster, Erik joined the team at Threshold Church, where he served for four years as both the Prayer Director and Community Pastor. These years deepened his heart for cultivating prayer, seeing the need for authentic community, and equipping people to walk in the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Now at Praise Community Church, Erik is honored to continue pursuing those same passions in his role as Family Life Pastor.

Erik’s ministry passions include discipleship, community, prayer, and prophetic ministry.

Outside of ministry, Erik treasures time with his family. He and Ashley are the proud parents of three amazing children, Owen, Noelle, and Clayton. Together, they enjoy family walks, exploring new restaurants, and trying out new parks.

As a passionate Philadelphia sports fan at heart, Erik loves cheering on the Eagles (Go Birds!)

At the core of it all, Erik’s desire is to see families encounter the presence of God, be equipped to live out their faith in everyday life, and raise up the next generation to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.