About Us

Learn about our story and our vision

Our Story

In 1879, four Methodist ministers—Ezra B. Lake, James Lake, S. Wesley Lake, and William Burrell—purchased Peck’s Beach with a clear vision: to establish a Christian seaside community centered on faith, rest, and renewal.

They formed the Ocean City Association and began laying the foundation for what would become Ocean City—developing streets, bridges, schools, and the Tabernacle itself. From the beginning, the Tabernacle was not an afterthought, but a central part of that vision.

Writing in 1881, Reverend Burrell captured that purpose:

“We consecrate another portion of this coast to the service of God, and for the best interests of humanity… where a Christian family may pleasantly and profitably spend the heated term.”

From its earliest days, the Tabernacle served as a place where people gathered to hear the preaching of the Gospel, worship together, and experience spiritual renewal along the shore. That purpose has endured.

Over the decades, the Tabernacle has continued to grow and adapt—welcoming generations of residents and visitors through worship services, concerts, and programs that reflect its ongoing commitment to Gospel proclamation and community life.

Today, the Ocean City Tabernacle remains a non-denominational Christian gathering place, carrying forward the vision of its founders. Through seasonal worship services, year-round programs such as Ark Preschool and Son Club, and events that bring people together, the Tabernacle continues to serve as a visible Christian witness in Ocean City.

While much has changed since 1879, the foundation remains the same: A place set apart for the proclamation of the Gospel, the strengthening of families, and the renewal of all who gather.

Timeline

1879

In 1879, four Methodist ministers – Ezra B. Lake, S. Wesley Lake, James E. Lake, and William H. Burrell – explored what was then known as “Peck’s Beach.” Kneeling beneath a cedar tree, they prayed for guidance, dedicating the island to God as a “Christian seaside resort.” With the Lakes' father, Hon. Simon Lake, and Rev. William B. Wood, they incorporated the “Ocean City Association,” purchased the island, and set about developing it into the town now known as Ocean City.

1881

The geographical, cultural, and spiritual center of this new town was the Ocean City Tabernacle, originally an open-sided auditorium constructed in 1881 on a beach-to-bay parcel of land between 5th and 6th Streets known as “the Strand.” In the years that followed, the city grew up – literally and figuratively – around the Tabernacle.

1900

From the beginning, the Tabernacle’s vision was to be a “summer preaching center where the gospel of Jesus Christ is central.” This vision was realized through annual “camp meetings” where worshipers would enjoy family vacations and worship services while living in tents erected on the Tabernacle grounds. Also established early on was a summer schedule of Sunday worship featuring dynamic, well-known preachers from across the country who could deliver God’s Word powerfully and impact the visiting families for Christ.

1930

After a few years of ministry, the Tabernacle auditorium was enclosed, and a “Young People’s Temple” was constructed on the property to reach youth with the gospel through sports and other activities. In 1930, the Ocean City Association was dissolved, and in its place, the Ocean City Tabernacle Association was formed to continue the ministry of the Tabernacle and plan for future growth.

1957

As God blessed, the ministry grew through the next three decades, leading to the construction of a new building in 1957. The modernized auditorium and beautified grounds provided an inspiring environment for hearing God’s Word and worshiping Him in song. After another three decades, the “Family Room” was added in 1990 to help families with young children worship together more easily.

2002

In 2002, the Family Room was replaced by the Narthex and Noah’s Ark. This major renovation – a project designated “For Our Children’s Children” – included a spacious lobby for fellowship, an Ark-themed nursery, and classrooms where God’s Word comes alive to children.

2006

In 2006, the Kull Youth Center opened, revitalizing ministry to children and teens that began in the 1800’s with the Young People’s Temple. The KYC is home to the Son Club After-School Program, ministering to Ocean City Public School students each school day. It has also become a favorite destination for churches to hold youth retreats and events where students can meet God in a unique “beach and boardwalk” environment.

2026

Today, the Ocean City Tabernacle maintains the deep roots of its founding nearly a century- and-a-half ago with a vison for the future as a “Family Ministry Center where the Gospel of Jesus Christ is Central.” Our desire is to help people KNOW GOD through the Bible, help people WORSHIP GOD in Spirit and truth, and help STRENGTHEN FAMILIES as we remain a vital spiritual hub for Ocean City and the surrounding region.

Our Staff

Tom Sherf

Executive Director

Tom Sherf serves as the Executive Director of the Ocean City Tabernacle, providing leadership and direction for the ministry’s mission, operations, and long-term vision.

With a passion for Gospel-centered ministry and organizational leadership, Tom is committed to strengthening the Tabernacle’s role as a place where the Word of God is clearly proclaimed, families are nurtured in their faith, and the Ocean City community is served with purpose and care.

Prior to joining the Tabernacle, Tom spent over two decades at Cairn University, most recently as Vice President of Marketing and Enrollment. His experience in strategic leadership and communication continues to shape the Tabernacle’s growth and impact.

Jim Carrol

Director of Administration

Jim Carroll serves as Director of Administration and Partnerships, supporting the day-to-day operations of the Tabernacle and building relationships within the Ocean City community.

He oversees facility use, logistics, and external partnerships, helping ensure that the Tabernacle remains a welcoming and well-functioning place for worship, events, and gatherings.

Jim plays an important role in connecting the ministry to the broader community it serves.

Teresa Foresta

Children’s Ministry Coordinator

Teresa Foresta serves as Youth Ministries Coordinator, overseeing programs that invest in the spiritual growth of children and students.

Through initiatives such as Son Club and seasonal programming, she helps create environments where young people are encouraged, supported, and equipped to grow in their faith.

Teresa is passionate about nurturing the next generation and building meaningful connections with families in the Ocean City community.

Lisa Mack

Ark Preschool Director

Lisa Mack serves as Director of Ark Preschool, leading a year-round program that provides early childhood education in a Christ-centered environment.

She is passionate about creating a place where children are cared for, encouraged, and supported in both their development and early understanding of faith. Through her leadership, Ark Preschool partners with families to help lay a strong foundation for learning, character, and spiritual growth.

Lisa’s work reflects the Tabernacle’s commitment to nurturing the next generation—serving both the Ocean City community and surrounding families throughout the year.

Lee Martin

Director of Worship & Communications

Lee Martin serves as Director of Worship and Communications, leading the planning and execution of worship services and overseeing how the Tabernacle communicates its mission and message.

He works to ensure that every service—whether traditional or contemporary—reflects a clear focus on Christ and supports the proclamation of the Gospel through music and liturgy.

Lee also plays a key role in shaping the Tabernacle’s voice across digital and in-person platforms, helping connect residents and visitors to the life of the ministry.

Board of Trustees

Gena Willard, President
Antwan McClellan, Vice President
Jane French, Treasurer
Jack Brooks, Secretary
Jon Batastini
Greg Field
Cindy Morris
Brian Roberts

Partner With Us

Each season, the Tabernacle becomes a place where people gather to hear the Word of God, worship together, and be renewed in their faith. Your support helps make that possible—strengthening a ministry that proclaims the Gospel, invests in the next generation, and provides a place where residents and visitors alike can encounter truth, encouragement, and community. By partnering with the Tabernacle, you are helping ensure that this work continues with clarity, purpose, and lasting impact.

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