Pastor Nancy Dufresne is 65 years old, born on August 30, 1961, in Southwest Oklahoma. As the president of Dufresne Ministries and World Harvest Church, she has spent over forty years in active religious leadership, guiding congregations and expanding global outreach through television and published works.
While queries about her age often spark curiosity, her true footprint in modern Christian ministry lies in decades of consistent pastoral work rather than mere chronological milestones. Her journey bridges traditional charismatic ministry with modern global broadcasting, defining an enduring path of service.
Early Life and Formative Years
Nancy Chapman grew up in a hardworking farming family in Southwest Oklahoma, where her father cultivated wheat and cotton. Her upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and disciplined routine that later translated into her demanding ministerial schedule.
As a young adult, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to attend Oral Roberts University, majoring in piano performance. This period proved pivotal not only for her academic background but also for her introduction to major figures in the Word of Faith movement. In 1982, she was crowned Miss Oklahoma and finished as a runner-up in the Miss America pageant, showcasing early public poise before stepping into full-time ministry.
Marriage and Partnership with Dr. Ed Dufresne
In 1984, she married Dr. Ed Dufresne, an established evangelist and pastor. Their union began a twenty-nine-year partnership defined by intensive travel, evangelistic crusades, and church planting.
Together, they founded and pastored World Harvest Church in Murrieta, California, where Nancy served closely alongside her husband for twenty-five years. Their ministry focused heavily on divine healing, faith teaching, and practical Christian living. Working side-by-side through economic shifts and cultural changes, they built an institutional foundation that reached international audiences.
Following Dr. Ed Dufresne's passing in 2013, Nancy assumed leadership as president of Dufresne Ministries, World Harvest Bible School, and Fresh Oil Fellowship. Rather than shrinking from the sudden loss, she mobilized her family—including her sons Stephen and Grant—to sustain and expand the multi-faceted organization.
Expanding Global Reach and Media
Stepping into leadership required adapting to changing communication channels. In addition to traditional pulpit ministry, Dufresne expanded her reach through print media and broadcasting. She has authored numerous books, such as A Sound, Disciplined Mind and The Healer Divine, which focus on spiritual authority and biblical principles.
Through her television broadcast Jesus The Healer, aired on networks like TBN Russia and the Victory Channel, she delivers clear, straightforward biblical teaching to international viewers. This transition from local church pastor to global broadcaster highlights an ability to maintain traditional core messages while utilizing modern media platforms.
Core Characteristics of Her Ministry
Examining her longevity in ministry reveals distinct operational patterns that separate her leadership from short-lived religious trends:
- Clarity of Doctrine: Her preaching avoids overly complex academic jargon, opting instead for practical, verse-by-verse application that everyday believers can implement.
- Institutional Resilience: Maintaining active church operations, bible training centers, and global outreaches for decades demands rigorous administrative discipline and team delegation.
- Family Integration: The ministry functions as a multi-generational enterprise, with sons and family members actively preaching and managing organizational logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Pastor Nancy Dufresne been in ministry?
She has served in active public ministry for over four decades, beginning alongside her late husband in 1984 and continuing to lead Dufresne Ministries globally today.
What organizations does she currently lead?
She serves as the president of Dufresne Ministries, World Harvest Church, World Harvest Bible School, and Fresh Oil Fellowship.
Where is World Harvest Church located?
World Harvest Church originally established its long-standing primary base in Murrieta, California, where she pastored for 25 years before transitioning into a broader travel and media ministry.
How many children does she have?
She has two sons, Stephen and Grant, who work alongside her in managing and preaching within the family's ministries.
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