Dr. and Mrs. Howard came to the Hercules area in 1971 and began Valley Bible Church. Pastor Phil and Caroline, who is the Children’s Minister, have been married for 40+ years. They have three adult married daughters, Deborah, Rebecca, and Elizabeth, and ten grandchildren.

Pastor Howard has been a student of the Word since age 14, when he placed his faith in Christ Jesus. His Bachelor of Science was earned from Western Baptist College. He completed the core for the Masters of Divinity at San Francisco Conservative Baptist Theological Seminary. His Master’s degree was completed at Denver Baptist College and Seminary, and his doctorate was earned at Dallas Theological Seminary. His love for people comes through in his presentation of the Word as a practical guide for every day living. He has become known for his challenging, Bible-centered preaching and teaching. God has used His Word to transform a congregation as well as the life of His servants who handle His Word.