SHBC LEADERSHIP
SHANE MAPLES
Lead Pastor
Shane Maples is from the very small town of Walland, TN. He holds an undergraduate degree in church music from University of the Cumberlands and has completed coursework toward Master of Arts in Christian Studies from University of the Cumberlands. Pastor Shane has served in youth/young adult roles in rural Appalachian churches in Kentucky and Tennessee and in the senior pastor role since 2017. He began serving as Lead Pastor at Southern Heights in September 2023. Pastor Shane is passionate about reaching the lost and equipping the saved for the work of ministry. He enjoys sports, especially cheering for the Atlanta Braves and Tennessee Volunteers. He loves spending time outdoors, particularly golfing and hiking. You are likely to see Pastor Shane walking his standard poodle, Rocky, around the neighborhood.
SEBASTION KOGER
Associate Pastor of Students and Families
Pastor Sebastion Koger is a native of Monticello, Kentucky. He holds an Associate of Arts degree from Clear Creek Baptist Bible College and is currently completing his undergraduate studies. Pastor Sebastion has been actively involved in ministry since 2019, with a particular calling to serve youth and families. Since 2020, he has worked closely with young people of all ages. In 2023, he entered into pastoral ministry, and in April 2025, he was called to serve as the Associate Pastor of Students and Families at Southern Heights. Pastor Sebastion is passionate about teaching God’s Word and helping Students & Families serve God. He has been married to his wife, Grace, since December 2022. Together, they have one daughter, Eden, born in May 2024. Outside of ministry, Pastor Sebastion enjoys football, trucks, and gaming. His favorite verse is John 3:30 — “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
MARIA LESTER
Minister of Music
Maria was called as our Minister of Music in May 2019. She is a Lexington native and holds degrees from Georgetown College and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. She has served in central Kentucky churches more than 20 years, including 10 years at Versailles Baptist. She is a passionate choral conductor who loves Jesus and loves people.
Maria works full time for Associations International as the Accreditation Coordinator for the International Coach Federation. Maria also sings with the Lexington Singers and gives private voice lessons. She loves to sing (for ANYONE!) and also loves walking, swimming, drama, and roller coasters! Most of all, Maria loves the Lord, and endeavors to serve Him in every aspect of her life. She is excited to serve at Southern Heights!
REGULAR SERVICE TIMES
Sunday School 9:30am
Sunday Morning Worship Service 10:45am
Sunday Evening Bible Study 6:00pm
Wednesday Prayer/Bible Study 6:00pm
SOUTHERN HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH
3408 Clays Mill Road, Lexington, KY 40503
(859) 223-5223
Copyright 2025 Southern Heights Baptist Church. All Rights Reserved.