Pastor Phil Cavanaugh

Upon graduating from high school, Phil Cavanaugh took a Child & Youth Development college course, worked as a plumber, and prayed about his future. After much prayer and seeking the counsel of his pastor, he made the decision to attend Providence Baptist College in McHenry, IL. Although he had made a profession of faith in Christ as a child, he settled his salvation as a student at Providence on February 26 during the Holy Spirit-sent revival service at Northwest Bible Baptist Church in 2006. This allowed him to gain the confidence he needed to pursue God’s call on his life. As a Bible college student, he emerged as a leader, serving as a bus captain and taking on other leadership responsibilities.

During his senior year of college, he accepted a position as youth pastor at First Baptist Church in Dwight, IL with Pastor Dan Woodward. He graduated from Providence Baptist College in 2006 and married Amanda Markey on June 23.

In 2012, he moved back to Northwest Bible Baptist Church and became an assistant pastor, overseeing the soulwinning ministries and Sunday schools. He started teaching classes and serving as the Dean of Men at Providence Baptist College.

On June 12, 2016, upon Pastor Gomez’ recommendation, the church voted to officially recognize him as the co-pastor with the expectation that he would one day become the pastor when Pastor Gomez retired. Since that time, he trained alongside Pastor Gomez in every aspect of the church and its ministries. On January 2, 2022, Northwest Bible Baptist Church voted unanimously to call Phil Cavanaugh as their next pastor.

On March 27, 2022, during the afternoon service, Pastor Phil Cavanaugh was welcomed as their new pastor as the men of the church laid hands on him and prayed.

Pastor and Mrs. Cavanaugh have 5 children: Addisyn, Brady, Nathan, Benjamin, and Russell.