“I’ve learned so much from the female leaders God has placed in my life and ministry, and I continue to lean on their wisdom, insight, and discernment,” he said. “The church is at its best when men and women learn from one another, honoring the unique wisdom and perspective each brings.”
Mandrell aligns with the Baptist Faith & Message, which is the SBC’s unifying statement of faith, in that “Scripture teaches the office of pastor is reserved for qualified men.” He continued, “That doesn’t mean men are the only ones with spiritual insight to offer.”
“When God wants to teach us something, he often calls us out of the boat—just like he did with Peter,” said Mandrell.
A Calling Affects the Entire Mandrell Family
Mandrell shared that he’s always had a “willingness to follow God’s leading—and to serve faithfully in every assignment.” And that includes his family. Ben and his wife, Lynley, have served in ministry together for decades. With a love of homes, buildings, and construction, Lynley uses her gifts while working part-time with Visioneering Studios, a company that transforms church facilities. Ben and Lynley have four children.
Their daughter Ava is marrying Miles Denton this summer and will begin law school in the fall. The couple will live in Memphis, Tennessee, where Denton will begin his new job as an accountant.
The Mandrells’ son Max, an accomplished drummer, will continue studies at Samford University. The Mandrells’ son Miles will begin his college career at the University of Tennessee, and the couple’s son Jack is wrapping up high school in the Memphis area.
The Mandrells also have an “honorary” family member, Granny A. Granny A became a grandmother to the Mandrells’ four children soon after her husband died.
“She made a choice that deeply impacted us: rather than sit in sorrow, she chose to serve,” said Mandrell.
Mandrell shared that Granny A is “still going strong.” He continued, “Her life continues to encourage and challenge us. She reminds us that we don’t have to be defined by pain or loss. Life is too short for self-pity, and her joy-filled resilience is a testimony we’ll never forget.”
