MEET Our TEAM

Shane Hicks has been the pastor of our church since 2019. He led the closure and restart of the historic First Baptist Church of Downey, founding Legacy in 2020.
He has served in ministry since 2003 as a champion for those who have been hurt by worldly and religious lies and false teaching. His preaching is dynamic and takes listeners on journeys of joy, laughter, sorrow, reflection, and transformation.
Shane married his wife, Whitney, in 2013. They have two children—Jesse (born in 2017) and Emery (born in June 2024). As a family, they love exploring California through amusement parks, camping trips, beach days, mountain hikes, and big-city adventures. Shane considers his two cats, Harlequin and Tazmania, to be equal family members—while the dogs, chickens, guinea pigs, and hermit crabs are just lucky to have a home.
Shane is also a self-proclaimed chips-and-salsa enthusiast, Dave’s Hot Chicken addict, and Sparkling Ice connoisseur. He previously sang and played guitar in several bands and still occasionally joins the praise team and writes music for the church. He’s convinced the best music came out of the ’90s and early 2000s—and can’t believe his favorite songs now play on the oldies station.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies from California Baptist University, a Master of Divinity from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Gateway Seminary. He is also certified in Christian Behavioral Science.

Shane is currently completing his second doctorate, a PhD in Leadership Studies, at California Baptist University.

Whitney Hicks has served alongside Pastor Shane since 2010 in four prominent churches and various ministry roles. She earned two Bachelor of Arts degrees in Psychology and English, as well as a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University.

Whitney has a passion for helping women, youth, and children deepen their understanding of God’s Word. She possesses a strong gift of discernment, enabling her to assist believers in distinguishing truth from heresy. Additionally, she has served as a moderator for one of the largest Christian social media groups for women, overseeing tens of thousands of participants.

Whitney homeschools her son Jesse and plans to homeschool Emery as well. She is dedicated to ensuring her children grow up with a solid Christian educational foundation.