When people look at high-profile religious leaders, they often focus entirely on the person behind the pulpit. Yet behind Jentezen Franklin, the senior pastor of Free Chapel, stands his wife, Cherise Franklin. She plays an active role in their multi-campus ministry and global broadcast reach. Understanding their shared history offers a clearer picture of how they built a major spiritual enterprise together.
Jentezen Franklin is married to Cherise Franklin, and the couple tied the knot in September 1987. Over decades of public leadership, television programming, and bestselling book launches, Cherise has remained a constant co-laborer in ministry. They live in Gainesville, Georgia, where they raised five children and expanded their family to include multiple grandchildren.
Early Roots and Marriage
Long before Free Chapel grew into a massive multi-site organization, Jentezen and Cherise began their journey as a young married couple. They married in 1987, navigating the early, often demanding years of itinerant evangelism and local church planting. Ministry life isn't easy, and pastoral marriages face unique pressures under public scrutiny.
They built their foundation on shared faith and mutual support during times of financial tightness and uncertainty. Those formative years shaped their approach to family and leadership. They often speak about keeping their marriage strong despite the relentless demands of a global media footprint. More information regarding the matter are covered by Associated Press.
Ministry and Leadership Roles
Cherise isn't just a supportive spouse sitting quietly in the background; she functions as a co-pastor at Free Chapel. Her speaking engagements focus heavily on family dynamics, women's empowerment, and spiritual growth. She frequently addresses leadership conferences, encouraging other women in ministry to balance home life with public calling.
Through initiatives like the Whitaker House publishing network and church-sponsored events, she has authored resources geared toward Christian living. Her voice complements her husband's television ministry, Kingdom Connection, by addressing practical relationship issues that resonate with modern families.
Family Life and Children
The Franklins share five children: Courteney, Caressa, Caroline, Connar, and Drake. Raising a large family inside a fishbowl environment comes with distinct challenges. Jentezen and Cherise have frequently shared advice on how to protect children from the toxicity of public ministry critique.
- Courteney: Involved in creative and ministry-related pursuits.
- Caressa: Active in supporting family initiatives.
- Caroline: Participates in community and church projects.
- Connar: Engaged in media and leadership development.
- Drake: Youngest son, sharing musical and athletic interests.
As their children grew into adulthood, the family welcomed several grandchildren. Grandparenthood has shifted some of their personal focus toward legacy-building and spending quiet time at their Georgia home.
Shared Vision and Public Impact
The couple's influence extends far beyond local Sunday services. Free Chapel operates multiple campuses, drawing thousands of attendees weekly alongside millions tuning in online. Cherise oversees various internal pastoral care programs, ensuring that large-scale operations retain a personal touch for church members.
Their joint conferences, such as annual women's and marriage events, draw thousands of attendees seeking guidance on domestic stability. They position themselves as a relational power couple, teaching that long-term ministry survival depends entirely on private integrity matching public success.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jentezen and Cherise Franklin get married?
They married in September 1987 and have spent over three decades in public and private ministry together.
What is Cherise Franklin's role at Free Chapel?
She serves as co-pastor alongside her husband, focusing heavily on women's ministry, family guidance, and church leadership.
How many children do they have?
They have five children: Courteney, Caressa, Caroline, Connar, and Drake, alongside several grandchildren.
Where is their home base?
The family resides in Gainesville, Georgia, which serves as the headquarters for Free Chapel and their international outreach.
