FBC North Mobile in Saraland
Mobile Baptist Association
Favorite Verses: Romans 8:28; Philippians 1:19–20
Favorite Hymn: “When We See Christ”
Hobbies: Writing; reading; watching documentaries
Family Status: Husband of 32 years, Gary; sons Kenny (wife, Meaghan) and Dalton
She was born Cheryl Ann Miller. Yet older sister, Brenda, quickly renamed her “Peppi,” a possible foreshadowing of what God would call Cheryl Ann to do. Peppi had long felt her Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was a flaw that kept her from being useful to God. However, God revealed to her that her ADHD is a gift to bring laughter into the lives of others. The 52-year-old has done comedic shows in churches in Alabama, Florida and Mississippi. A member of the Christian Comedy Association, Peppi also is active in her church choir, teaches missions groups and English as a Second Language (ESL) and volunteers at Mission of Hope in Mobile.
Q: What influences in your life pointed you to Christ at the beginning of your faith journey?
A: My parents were my greatest godly influence. My mom led me to the Lord when I was nine. I grew up at Mission of Hope, a Christian alcohol and drug treatment program that my dad, Lonnie Miller, founded 43 years ago. I saw my parents live out their faith daily. They were the same at home as they were in public. I witnessed the Lord do great things through them and wanted God to use me too.
Q: When and how were you led into your ministry work?
A: Though I had friends tell me all my life, “You are so funny,” and, “You could be a comedian,” I never held on to those thoughts. The Lord began calling me to comedy when I was approaching my 50th birthday. It took almost three years before I really understood. And then I whined, “But people will laugh at me.” God answered, “Duh.” Yes God really does say, “Duh.”
Q: What does your ministry work demand?
A: First I must stay in constant communication with God. This was all His idea. It’s His gig. I’m just the microphone. He can unplug me at any time. Second I must study the science of comedy, which is just as important as having funny material. Third I must be funny.
Q: What do you get from your ministry work?
A: There is great joy in being allowed to have this much fun while pointing audiences to Christ. Comedy tears down walls so audiences are more receptive to the message God gives me to share. The greatest joy is when precious audience members come to faith in Christ at my shows.
Q: How do family members support you?
A: My husband, Gary, is my greatest supporter, adviser, manager, sounding board and prayer partner. My sons take my business cards to work with them. My mom goes to many of my shows with me and my sister has been there from the beginning as a great encourager and prayer partner. They all graciously allow me to use them as some of my most hilarious material.
Q: What difference will this ministry work make for you in the future?
A: I pray I will always see the funny in life and look for ways to share that joy with others. That can be done with or without a microphone or platform.
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