Rites of Passage

About Us

Rites of Passage is a Christian, biblically-based program designed to develop boys into mature productive men by illustrating the essential qualities needed for manhood. Boys 12 - 15 years old are partnered with mature men who teach and encourage spiritual, educational, vocational, physical, and social growth.   

ROP is an eight-month-long, Saturday morning program designed to change destinies! It is beneficial for healthy-minded boys whose parents are seeking for them to have the influence of godly men in their lives. It is also geared to support boys from single-parent homes and to address the negative social influences of drug & alcohol addiction, sexual promiscuity, gang involvement, and encounters with the juvenile justice system. 

The parent council brings a complete family approach to the ministry by providing administrative support and parental guidance.

For more information, time commitments, or to get involved, please call us 310.330.8000 ext. 3240 or email ritesofpassage@faithfamily.org.

Rites of Passage

Registration is closed !

Thank you for your interest in Rites of Passage, our 2026 cohort is officially closed. Please check back next year for our new enrollment schedule. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Rites of Passage office at 310.330.8000 ext.3240 or email ritesofpassage@faithfamily.org.

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  • At the culmination of every ROP class we celebrate with our Annual Graduation Banquet. It's an important part of our program and our young men stand in front of their friends, family, and loved ones as future leaders of tomorrow.

  • To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
    1 Peter 5:1-3

    Below is a list of the members of the Rites of Passage Board of Elders. The Board is responsible to discern the purpose of the ministry, and provide vision, direction, spiritual oversight, systems and structure.

    ROP Village Elder Board Members

    Dr. John-Paul C. Foster
    Senior Pastor/Teacher

    Village Elder Irving Tolbert, Chairman

    Village Elder Stephan Tucker, Treasurer

    Village Elder Jack Lightsy,
    Co-Chairman/Program Director

    Village Elder James Alexander, Physical Training Director

    Village Elder Ron Williams, Education Director

    Village Elder Dwayne Fuqua, Physical Training Director

    Village Elder Tomas Johnson, Physical Training Director

    Village Elder Lloyd Walker, Champion Training Team Leader

    Village Elder Victor Bullock, Alumni Team Leader

    Village Elder Carlos Ray, Champion Team Coordinator

    Village Elder Jay Tyron, Champion Team Coordinator

    Village Elder Jimmy White, Recruitment Coordinator

    Village Elder Mark Scott

    Village Elder Jerrold Ivery

    ROP Parent Council

    Cherise Davis, Parent Council Director

    LaVonda Storrs, Parent Council Coordinator

    Kimberly Phillips, Parent Council Coordinator

    Cherise Williams, Parent Council Coordinator

    Vernette Williams, Prayer Team Chaplain

A green shield emblem with the title "Rites of Passage," featuring an open book, two crossed swords, a dove holding a candle, and a border of red stars.

Become a Mentor!

The Mentor (Champion) Eligibility Requirements:

  • At least 21 years of age and a U.S. citizen

  • Completion of application and interview process

  • Has personal and spiritual maturity

  • Membership and regular attendance at a local bible-based church

  • References are strongly desired

For more information, or to get involved, please contact us at 310.330.8000 ext. 3240 or email ropchampion@faithfamily.org.