Pastor Peslak is a native of Stratford. He enlisted and served 5 years in the USAF. While stationed in Okinawa, Japan, he received Jesus Christ as Saviour. After separating from military service, he attended Hyles-Anderson College, an independent Baptist college located in Indiana. Upon college graduation, Michael served as a missionary with Fundamental Baptist Missions International (FBMI) to the U.S. Military in Okinawa, Japan. He established the Foundations Baptist Church and served as its pastor for six years. In June 2004, Michael assumed the pastorate of White Oak Baptist Church replacing the beloved founder/pastor of 24 years, Barry Brown. Pastor & Mrs. Brown remain very active in the ministry serving on staff at Central Baptist Church, Southington, CT. Michael and his wife Patricia (of Melbourne, FL) have two children - Josiah born March 1994 and Emily born December 1997.